10 Karakoy Istanbul

Much like the neighborhood itself, 10 Karaköy is a historical structure that’s been given a thorough makeover. The elegant, cavernous lobby has contemporary decor, with ring-shaped chandeliers, sophisticated neutrals, velvet-covered sofas, slipper chairs, and ottomans in an appealing melange of on-trend blues. A similar look continues in other modern spaces, including the four on-site restaurants and lounges. Neon signs in English reading: "Eat, Drink, Boogie, Repeat" overshadow any traditional Turkish elements, with the exception of the occasional canvas or sculpture by contemporary Turkish artists. The upmarket atmosphere (along with a pricey rate to match) make it a favorite among well-to-do urban professionals, particularly couples, although business travelers often pass through, too.

Few neighborhoods in Istanbul have undergone as dramatic a transformation as Karaköy in the past decade. Until recently, it was a network of shops, mechanics, hookah bars, and derelict buildings. Now, the enclave just north of Galata Bridge is a leading hipster haunt home to luxury hotels, hammams, art galleries, and fashion boutiques, all with a young, quirky twist. Accessing many major sights requires taking public transit, but the hotel's location near the junction of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus puts a tram stop only a two-minute walk away. A funicular up to the Taksim area is just a five-minute stroll. Istanbul's legendary traffic jams can significantly affect travel time. Expect anywhere from 20 minutes to two hours by cab to reach Istanbul Atatürk Airport. 

• Eight-minute walk to Galata Tower
• 11-minute walk to Istanbul Modern Art Museum
• 15-minute walk to Spice Bazaar
• 14 minutes to Basilica Cistern via tram 
• 15 minutes to Taksim Square via tram 
• 15 minutes to Hagia Sophia via tram
• 18 minutes to Topkapı Palace via tram 
• Four-minute drive to Dolmabahçe Palace 
• Eight-minute drive to Grand Bazaar
• 11-minute drive to Blue Mosque

Guest rooms and suites are smallish, and beige tones paired with blonde-wood, and only minimal, muted blue accents make spaces feel bland overall. Still, they have an elegant, upscale look, with custom-designed furniture, artsy photographs of Istanbul, and high-end amenities. All contain air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs (though they're small), iPod docking stations, espresso machines, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. A few guest rooms have smaller arched windows, which gives some historical character, but less light. Marble bathrooms are similarly styled, with blue tiling and wall art that's more mid-range than luxe, though there are attractive vanities with basin sinks and curvy, tapered legs. They're also well-equipped, with walk-in showers, terrycloth bathrobes, slippers, and posh Malin+Goetz toiletries. Loft Suites add a separate living room, king beds, and the occasional private terrace. Only the penthouse comes with a separate bathtub. 

The 10 Karaköy Istanbul delivers luxurious amenities to its clientele, though some features found at similar properties in this range are missing. Drinking and dining is a highlight, with four on-site restaurants. A high-quality breakfast is served for an extra charge, with traditional Turkish and Western items, plus lunch and dinner. There's also a stylish rooftop bar with Bosphorus views. 

For wellness, there's a gym with modern LifeFitness cardio and weight-training machines, but it's sparsely equipped and in a dark, cramped space with no natural light. No spa, pool, sauna, or hammam on-site is a considerable drawback. 

Service, however, is top-notch, as several past guests have reported friendly and helpful staff. Other amenities include a 24-hour front desk with concierge to provide tourist assistance and other services, and for an extra fee, airport transfers, laundry, dry cleaning, and ironing. Guests are given loaner mobile phones with free data and local and international calls, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.