Best Luxury Hotels in Istanbul
Truly unique and utterly jaw-dropping, Istanbul is a melting pot of history, culture and empires that have all influenced this magnificent city. From the Ottoman and Byzantine to the Roman and Egyptian, the imprints left behind through art and architecture are some of the greatest examples in the world. Straddling both Europe and Asia thanks to the Bosphorus Strait, this indulgent destination, once only discoverable to those allowed behind the palace doors is now home to some of the best bars and clubs, restaurants and retail all of which ooze with decadence. A weekend or a week here and you will feel like the royalty that the city was built for. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels to stay at in the city.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Beyoglu
Soho House Istanbul
(5 stars)The luxurious Soho House Istanbul is located within the Palazzo Corpi in the historic Beyoğlu district. The building was built in 1873 and showcases many original features including stunning 19th century frescoes. The hotel is comprised of 87 lavish guestrooms ranging from small bedrooms to mezzanine rooms to spacious apartments, all fitted with every modern comfort. Guests are welcome to choose from four on-site restaurants serving a range of local and international cuisine. There is also the rejuvenating Cowshed Spa fitted with a traditional Hammam and offering a range of relaxing treatments. Guests are welcome to take advantage of the fitness centre complete with a boxing ring and rooftop views over the Bosphorus. There is a screening room and a beautiful art collection to admire. A selection of event spaces and experiences are also available to book for anything from celebrations to members-only wellness retreats.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Beyoglu
JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus
(5 stars)The luxurious JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus sits in the beating heart of the bustling city while it’s nestled in the streets of Karaköy. The hotel itself displays a unique blend of modern comfort and traditional local charm while boasting the building’s original, 180-year-old Veli Alemdar Han and the 35-meter atrium. There are 130 deluxe guestrooms and one- and two-bedroom suites overlooking the glistening Bosphorus Strait. Guests are invited to enjoy delicious local and international cuisine in any of the eight diverse dining options featuring the stunning seasonal Sky Karaköy rooftop lounge with 360-degree views over the city. There is also the state-of-the-art Spa Soul with rejuvenating treatments and wellness facilities. Guests can take advantage of the 24-hour fitness centre. This hotel is pet friendly. The hotel’s central location places you next to Galataport and right between the city’s major airports – perfect for all types of stays.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Besiktas
Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul
(5 stars)The Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul is the perfect destination for a five-star getaway by the waters of the Bosphorus Strait. The hotel is comprised of exquisite guestrooms and suites featuring the expansive 474sqm one- and two-bedroom Royal Bosphorus Suites overlooking the Strait and equipped with a private gym and winter gardens. There are six dining venues on site including shorefront dining at the Mediterranean Bosphorus Lounge and Cabanas. Guests are welcome to take advantage of the opportunity to recharge in The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul while enjoying any of the many treatments on offer or simply making use of the range of wellness facilities. The hotel boasts an indoor, outdoor and a children’s swimming pool as well as a fully equipped fitness centre with spin and pilates studios.