Amy Adejokun
Section editor
Strange mixture! The Divan offers modernism and the services of a large hotel in a slightly 70's atmosphere. A functional, comfortable address a few minutes' walk from Taksim Square.
Divan - © Marco Toninelli / EASYVOYAGE
Divan - © Marco Toninelli / EASYVOYAGE
The Hotel Divan is situated in the new town behind Taksim Square park. Allow 15 minutes by taxi to get to the historical area of Sultanahmet. The international airport is 12.5 miles from the hotel (allow half an hour by taxi for the transfer).
The hotel's 179 rooms offer modern, classic comfort. They are carpeted and furnished with double or twin beds, large desk, round table and armchairs. They have air-conditioning, with direct telephone with international line, satellite television and a mini-bar. Some of them have an individual safe. The bathroom has a tub, toilet and a hair dryer. Room service means you can eat in your room 24 hours a day. You can also ask for a non-smoking room.
Built in the 80s and regularly renovated, the Divan is a modern 7-storey building. The large lobby-lounge is all in black marble. Although it is well kept, its decor has more than a hint of the 70s. The same is true for the large cosy bar on the first floor. In terms of sports and leisure, you can go to the little fitness centre which contains a fitness room (9 machines), a steam bath and a sauna. A shuttle goes back and forth to the Kuruçesme Divan pool a few minutes from the hotel.
The main restaurant is located on the ground floor at one end of the lobby. There is direct access from the street. The continental breakfasts are served as a buffet in a special room. Continue through and you get to the cafeteria where you can have breakfast and dinner. The buffets are generous and original, but you can also go a la carte (15 starters, 15 mains and 6 desserts) or have the slimming menu (7 starters, 3 mains and 3 desserts). Local and international gastronomy. You can also dine in the Turkish speciality restaurant. Foodies should not miss the patisserie-tea room in the hotel.
At all costs avoid the rooms situated along the large boulevard by the hotel, or you will have to get used to sleep to the sound of beeping horns and screeching tyres. To avoid this, ask for a room overlooking the gardens of the Hyatt Regency, which is just next door.
massage, (paying), beauty salon, sauna, hammam, keep fit, spa, Turkish bath, wellness
(nearby)
gym, mountain bike, water-polo, fitness, sports
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