The Basilissis Hotel is in a very good part of town, right near the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and square, and a lot of tourist-friendly sites and food options! The hotel is kind of off the main roads, so it's a little quieter than if it was on the rail lines.
The room was practical, the bed was comfortable. The shower did not have it's "rainwater shower head" even hooked up, so don't expect that; however, the shower worked fine. Their included soaps are good. A mini-bar does have a price list, but very reasonable considering the convenience; just be aware, around the corner are super cheap options for water, drinks, and snacks.
The staff all speak good English; there was some mix up with our taxi information when we ordered, but in the end it all worked out. They always answered our questions, and worked hard to make us feel valued.
If COVID is till a thing when you read this, the hotel itself can order a guy to come by and do the test in the lobby; you pay the hotel staff, and you get your results within 8-10 hours (that's how long ours took). Those results are available to use to get you back into the US.
Still reading? Then let me put you at ease; it's a good place to stay! There were only nitpick things that we could find wrong, but because of it's central location, professional staff, and good room, we would not hesitate to stay here again in Istanbul.