I recently had the opportunity of experiencing the charm of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda. Located on the Asian side of Istanbul in Moda Kadiköy, this hotel had been catching my eye for quite some time with its distinctive presence visible from almost everywhere. Now, I know some tourists tend to favor the European side for its main attractions, but trust me, this gem on the Asian side is not to be overlooked.
In this comprehensive article I’ll be breaking down my experience at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda, sharing the highs and a few quirks that you might want to consider. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to Istanbul, stay tuned for the inside scoop on why this hotel deserves a spot on your travel wishlist.
Let’s dive in!
Booking the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda
I secured my booking via booking.com, but there are multiple ways for you to make reservations at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda. You have the option to use the official Hilton website or explore other services. Additionally, consider checking out prices on TripAdvisor to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
One noteworthy point is that Hilton provides a Price Match Guarantee for its guests. So, if you happen to find a better deal than what’s offered on the official website and still prefer booking through Hilton directly, you can reach out to them. They are willing to match the price for you, ensuring you get the most value out of your stay.
As December had already arrived, and it wasn’t peak New Year’s season, the prices were surprisingly reasonable. I chose a standard room and skipped adding breakfast to my reservation. The decision stemmed from the fact that there were enticing cafes in the vicinity known for their excellent breakfast offerings, and I was eager to explore them during my stay this time. I’ll share some breakfast spot recommendations in the location section.
Location of DoubleTree by Hilton Moda
Firstly, the location in Moda Kadiköy is a breath of fresh air. Away from the hustle and bustle of the European side, it offers a unique and serene experience. In Istanbul, it’s important to note that this doesn’t mean the area is deserted, especially during the evening when Kadiköy comes alive with locals and a few tourists. However, I believe this vibrant atmosphere is part of the charm that Kadiköy has to offer. The hotel is in close proximity to the Bosphorus and Kadiköy Ferry port. If you desire, you have the option to book a room with a Bosphorus view for an additional cost.
Now, it’s true that many tourists tend to overlook the Asian side for accommodations, primarily because the main attractions are concentrated on the European side. But, let me share a different perspective – Kadiköy, with its excellent public transportation, might just be the better choice over Besiktas or Ortaköy if you’re aiming to explore the main attractions.
In conclusion, this hotel has an exceptionally prime location.
Public Transportation Options
Public transportation from Kadiköy to the European side is exceptionally efficient. I’d even go so far as to recommend Kadiköy over other areas. You can catch a ferry from Kadiköy to Eminönü or Karaköy, then hop on the tram to Sultanahmet, where major attractions like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace await.
Alternatively, take the Marmaray Line to Sirkeci station, then transfer to the tram heading to Sultanahmet. For those landing at the more budget-friendly Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, getting to Kadiköy is a breeze. A tram ride from Sabiha Gökçen takes you to Kadiköy’s last stop, and from there, the hotel is just a short stroll away. If you’re keen on exploring the Princes’ Islands, a ferry conveniently departs right in front of the hotel, adding to its unbeatable location.
However, it’s worth noting that the ferries and Marmaray don’t operate 24/7. So, if you’re venturing to the European side for some nightlife, keep in mind the limited transportation hours. Of course, taxis are always an option, or you can embrace the night and catch the first public transportation opportunity in the morning. On a side note, the Asian side itself boasts fantastic clubs, restaurants, and cocktail bars, making a trip to the European side for nightlife seem almost unnecessary.
Breakfast Locations Nearby
n the vicinity of the hotel, numerous cafes are located, with some boasting delightful breakfast options that I thoroughly relished.
Moda, in general, has long been a renowned breakfast and brunch destination among locals. If you fancy an open buffet breakfast by the seaside, you’ll find lots of opportunities near the Moda Ferry Port.For a satisfying morning meal near the hotel, consider trying Lilbake Bakery&Breakfast or Brekkie. The latter, though small, is a charming café offering excellent croissant selections and top-notch coffee. If you’re in the mood for something more traditional, Beyaz Fırın comes highly recommended.
Rooms at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda
During my stay, I occupied the King Guest Room with a City View, spanning around 25 sqm (270 sq feet). The room offered complimentary WiFi, spacious windows, and a flat-screen TV. Impressively, the space was well-kept, and the bathroom appeared recently renovated. The only minor drawback was the slightly dated bedroom furniture, though everything was impeccably clean.
To kickstart my mornings, I delighted in the convenience of a capsule coffee machine since I opted out of adding breakfast to my reservation. The nightly rate for this room was approximately €110, a reasonable price considering both Istanbul’s standards and Hilton’s reputation. It’s worth noting that accommodations on the Asian side tend to be more budget-friendly compared to the European side, offering another advantage to staying on this side of Istanbul.
I found the bathroom and amenities quite satisfactory, consistent with the standard I expect as a regular Hilton client, mirroring the offerings at other DoubleTrees. If you’re inclined, there’s an option to upgrade to a Bosphorus view room for an additional cost, and they also offer Suites with Jacuzzis.
The decision to book depends on personal preferences and priorities. While opting for a suite at the DoubleTree Hilton level can sometimes be a dilemma for me, the investment in a Bosphorus view might be well worth it.
Dining at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda
At DoubleTree by Hilton in Moda, you have a couple of dining options. While the hotel itself is situated in the Kadiköy district, providing a plethora of choices just outside its doors, there are specific options within the hotel worth exploring. La Gazetta Cafe and Bar on the entrance floor is ideal for drinks, although I must mention the coffee didn’t particularly impress.
The real gem, however, is the rooftop. Perched on the 12th floor of DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul Moda, the rooftop bar, HOOD, steals the spotlight. It offers delectable food and signature cocktails against the stunning backdrop of Istanbul and the old Peninsula.
The food menu showcases a mix of international flavors and authentic tastes. Additionally, the rooftop boasts a pool and bar, although I couldn’t enjoy them during my winter visit. Nevertheless, they appeared to be stylish and inviting.
Pool and SPA at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda
The hotel provides guests with access to both an indoor pool and a gym. Additionally, there’s a rooftop pool, primarily for fun purposes. Generally, I believe having an indoor pool and gym is adequate for the DoubleTree level. Therefore, it wasn’t surprising to find that the hotel doesn’t offer much more in terms of wellness facilities.
Conclusion
I believe the hotel boasts an excellent location and provides a commendable level of luxury for its price point. I highly recommend considering this option for your stay in Istanbul.
Last Thoughts about DoubleTree by Hilton Moda
Istanbul offers a plethora of hotels, making it challenging to narrow down recommendations to just 2-3. It’s essential to check prices and find a place that suits your specific needs. For instance, if you prioritize extensive wellness facilities, this hotel might not be the ideal choice.
However, if you have a few days to spend in Istanbul and are seeking a comfortable, reasonably priced place that captures the city’s vibrant local scene while allowing easy access to main attractions, I believe this hotel within the Hilton chain is among the best options. The prime location facilitates daily ferry trips to the European side for sightseeing in the mornings and a convenient return every night – an absolute must-do experience in Istanbul.
FAQs about DoubleTree by Hilton Moda
Yes, the hotel offers convenient on-site parking for guests.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda boasts a range of dining options, from fine restaurants to casual cafes, catering to various culinary preferences.
The hotel provides versatile and sophisticated venues for business meetings, conferences, and special celebrations, ensuring a successful and memorable event.
Yes, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Istanbul – Moda is committed to sustainability, implementing eco-friendly practices to minimize its environmental footprint.
Signing up for the Hilton Honors loyalty program is easy. Visit the official Hilton Honors website or inquire at the hotel reception during your stay.
Stay updated on special promotions and packages by checking the hotel’s official website or contacting the reservations team for personalized recommendations.