Piano Hotel

I really loved this hotel, where I stayed for five nights. It's lovely, modern but charming, and very comfortable and affordable. The staff was exceptional. Everyone on the staff exemplified the kindness and helpfulness that, from my experience, seems to be a hallmark of the city of Izmir. Another feature was the amazing Turkish breakfast buffet, which I looked forward to every morning. The bed was very good, and the bathroom had a very nice walk-in shower. The Piano Hotel has a great location, within walking distance of the bazaar and the other places a visitor might want to go. It's also an easy walk from the metro station at Basmane Gar if you're planning to take the metro from the airport into town. A few items to note: The least-expensive single rooms are on the top floor (or floors) — there are four floors above the ground floor — and there is no elevator, so if you can't imagine walking up so many stairs, ask for a room on a lower floor. Also, the sink in my room was small, making it fine for washing underwear but not larger items of clothing, if doing hand wash is a concern. The hotel includes a lovely bar next door that's perfect for a drink after a day of exploration.