Princess Residence

First Impressions

Walking into Princess Residence in Istanbul‘s Kartal district, you immediately sense this isn’t your typical tourist hotel. This four-star property has that polished, residential feel that makes you wonder if you’ve stumbled into someone’s very well-appointed private building. The lobby is understated but elegant — no flashy marble or over-the-top chandeliers, just clean lines and that particular Turkish attention to detail that I’ve come to appreciate after several visits to the city.

The Kartal Advantage

Here’s what most visitors don’t realize about staying in Kartal — you’re actually positioned perfectly for exploring both sides of Istanbul. Sure, you’re not in Sultanahmet with the crowds, but honestly? That’s a good thing. The area feels authentically Turkish, and you’ve got easy access to the Marmaray line that’ll zip you across the Bosphorus in minutes. I mean, couples consistently rate this location 8.9 out of 10, and after staying here, I get why. There’s something refreshing about ending your day somewhere that feels like real Istanbul rather than tourist central.

Your Space

The room I stayed in was genuinely spacious — and I don’t just mean by European standards. You know what struck me most? The attention to practical details. Plenty of outlets where you actually need them, blackout curtains that work properly, and a bathroom that doesn’t require contortionist skills to navigate. The decor leans modern without being cold, with warm wood accents and textiles that feel distinctly Turkish without being kitschy about it. Actually, the whole place has this residential apartment vibe that makes longer stays feel natural.

Practical Perks

Let me tell you about the parking situation — because if you’re planning to rent a car in Istanbul (which, honestly, I’d think twice about), Princess Residence offers free private parking. In a city where finding a parking spot can be a legitimate nightmare, this is huge. The staff here genuinely seems to care about making your stay work, not just checking boxes. They’re the kind of people who’ll actually help you figure out the best route to wherever you’re going, rather than just pointing vaguely toward the door.

Why Guests Love It

With a 9.5 rating, this place clearly does something right — and after my stay, I think it’s the combination of being genuinely comfortable without trying too hard to impress. You’re not paying for marble everything or a rooftop pool you’ll use once. Instead, you’re getting a well-run hotel that understands what travelers actually need: good sleep, reliable service, and a location that works. The fact that recent guests rated the location 8.3 tells you everything — this isn’t about being in the absolute center of everything, it’s about being somewhere that makes sense for exploring Istanbul properly.

Istanbul’s apartments welcome families with skyline terraces, toy libraries, and easy access to Princes’ Islands ferries.