The Kybele HotelvsRaffles Istanbul
Both hotels are rated very highly by professionals. Overall, Raffles Istanbul ranks significantly better than Kybele Hotel. Raffles Istanbul has a TripExpert Score of 79 with positive reviews from 6 reviewers such as Jetsetter, oyster.com and Afar Magazine.
The Kybele Hotel
Alemdar Mah. Yerebatan Cad. No:35 Sultanahmet, Fatih, Istanbul 34410, Turkey
From $33/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Free Breakfast
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
- Concierge
Rough Guide
"Atmospheric, unusual... The spacious rooms sport marbled wallpaper and old wood flooring."
Fodor's
"This charming little inn is best known for the incredible profusion of antique lamps—4,000 at last count—that hang from the ceilings in the ornate, parlor-like lobby." Full review
Insight Guides
"Famous for its thousands of hanging glass lamps that even infiltrate the bedrooms, the Kybele, created out of a pair of townhouses, is a splash of colour both inside and out."
Lonely Planet
"The location near Aya Sofya is central, and the rooms, which feature cute marble bathrooms, are smallish but comfortable." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"Sitting partly over Istanbul’s famous Basilica Cistern, the hotel is in easy walking distance from most major landmarks." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"This tiny, multi-storied hotel is located in the heart of the tourist area. The antiques and craft items of every description create a homely and friendly atmosphere."
Raffles Istanbul
Zorlu Center | Besiktas, Istanbul 34340, Turkey
From $217/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Laundry Service
Condé Nast Traveler
"Channels the city’s Byzantine charm and mystery with gorgeous views from almost every room and lush Turkish textiles." Full review
Star Service
" With facilities catering to business travelers, families, couples, and VIPs, the 11th member of the international Raffles chain of luxury hotels has broad appeal." Full review
Wallpaper
"All rooms feature a balcony with the best views overlooking the Bosphorus and the Princes’ Islands." Full review
Oyster
Kid-Friendly
"Raffles Istanbul is a five-pearl property with dramatic, art-filled interiors situated in an upscale mall and residential complex, about a 30-minute drive from the top tourist sights." Full review
The Telegraph
9.0
"Unlike the majority of luxury hotels in Istanbul, Raffles does not pay homage to the city’s bygone Byzantine and Ottoman eras, but stands instead as a symbol of a modern, self-confident Turkey." Full review
Jetsetter
"Opulent, ultra-mod newcomer overlooking the Bosphorus with a rooftop cinema, lavish spa and Michelin-starred chef." Full review
U.S. News & World Report
2.0
"Recent travelers are confident in their proclamations that the Raffles Istanbul is one of the best hotels they have ever stayed in." Full review
Independent
"Set away from central Istanbul in the shiny Zorlu Centre and the business district – but easily reached by metro – Raffles Istanbul is as stylishly modern as its sleek surroundings"
Travel + Leisure
"A romantic stay at Raffles Istanbul comes with sweeping panoramic views of the Bosphorus, stylish accommodations featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies (yes, there's 24-hour butler service, too), world-class gastronomic experiences, and a spa with couples rooms and Turkish baths"
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Michelin Guide
"Historical references are present, of course, especially in the artwork...every room is assigned a personal butler, and the facilities include the full luxury-hotel treatment" Full review