Wireless internet at lobby which we used, exciting breakfast buffet, did not have friendly staff though, good location for tourists (2 min walk to Taksim, within walking distance to subway). If you want to go around and see Istanbul it is a clean and fair hotel to stay in, if you want to enjoy the hotel I do not recommend it.

The Lion hotel is 2-3mins walk from Taksim Square Metro and buses and of course Istiklal Caddesi. Lion and Golden age hotels share common 1st and ground floors. I didn't go to the pool but I think that my overall experience of this hotel was pleasant and think it is ok for a 4-star hotel in this price range. Lion hotel was clean, has ensuite facilities I thought the beds were ok, decent pressure from the showers even on 4th floor, you get your own lockable safe in your room. It is very quiet at night at this hotel so I got enough sleep. You get your own minibar in your room - don't bother using it the shop just in front of the hotel is much cheaper. The best part about this hotel was the very good buffet breakfast selection in the mornings which is included in the price. I paid about $80 per night via holidaycity.com for a single room in September which was good for the location. The hotel seems to suit families as well as other travellers. The only complaint that I have with the hotel is that the reception staff prefer to talk amongst themselves instead of serve customers at the desk; but don't let this put you off staying here.

Stayed at the Lion Hotel in Istambul from Sept 20/23 2007, the hotel was very run down and dirty, mildew in showers, furniture in bad shape, beds were hard, I still do not know how they got a 4 star rating, the only thing going for it was the location. My advice to all travelers is to read the hotel reviews before you travel.

Stayed at the Lion Hotel in Istambul from Sept 20/23 2007, the hotel was very run down and dirty, mildew in showers, furniture in bad shape, beds were hard, I still do not know how they got a 4 star rating, the only thing going for it was the location. My advice to all travelers is to read the hotel reviews before you travel.