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, Besiktas

Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 310 Elegant Rooms & Suites, including Opulent Palace Suites
Amenities Ottoman Dining at Tugra Restaurant, Sanitas Spa with Turkish Hammam, Fitness Centre, indoor & Outdoor infinity Pools
More Historic Bosphorus Waterfront Location in a former Ottoman Palace

This hotel is located in the convenient Besiktas district on the European side of the Bosphorus. It originally served as a palace for Turkish sultans. Many heads of state have stayed in this hotel, and this has only served to continue its tradition of serving royalty. The hotel has three restaurants, one of which is Tugra. This dining area provides classic Turkish cuisine and is well-known in Istanbul for its high quality. Visitors to the hotel enjoy 24-hour butler service, a luxury lounge, and a private entrance.

BOOK YOUR STAY
Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Marmara Region, Istanbul, Fatih

Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 78 Luxurious Ottoman-Style Rooms & Suites With Private Gardens or Plunge Pools
Amenities Turkish & Mediterranean Dining At Sofia Terrace, Full-Service Spa With Hammam, Fitness Centre
More Prime Location in the Heart of Sultanahmet Near Iconic Historic Landmarks

Located literally within touching distance of Istanbul’s UNESCO architectural and cultural wonders, the Hagia Sofia Mansions, Curio Collection by Hilton, offers a quintessentially luxurious guest experience. A collection of restored, historic mansion houses have been reimagined as beautiful, Ottoman-style palatial suites, with access to fine dining, relaxed sun-kissed courtyard cafés, bars and restaurants, and a unique spa housed in one of Istanbul’s ancient underground former cisterns. The UNESCO old city, the Sultanahmet Archaeological Park, on the European side is probably the most visited, and here one finds the Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton close to Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern, steps to the Hagia Sofia Grand Mosque and beside the Hürrem Sultan Hamam, and the former sultan’s Topkapı Palace. Yet despite being at the heart of this popular area, this Curio Collection by Hilton property has wonderfully authentic and tranquil areas including a beautiful dining courtyard with views to the Hagia Sofia museum and mosque and another charming restaurant with views to the historic sites.

BOOK YOUR STAY
Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton

Marmara Region, Istanbul, Fatih

Sanasaryan Han, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Istanbul

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 65 Luxury Rooms & Suites in a Restored 19th-Century Setting
Amenities Turkish Dining at Han Restaurant, Full-Service Wellness Area with Hammam, Fitness Centre
More Prime Location in the Heart of Istanbul near Major Historic attractions

Sanasaryan Han, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Istanbul’s historical peninsula, merges neo-classical architecture with Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage. Originally built in 1895 and designed by Ottoman architect Hovsep Aznavur, the hotel stands near landmarks like the Spice and Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia. The 63 luxurious guestrooms offer views of Istanbul, present traditional Turkish décor, and local finishing touches like Turkish tea sets. After extensive restoration, the hotel now features a grand atrium, a library of historical books, and modern art installations, including monochromatic photographs of Istanbul by Harun Doğan. Sanasaryan Han’s dining options highlight local cuisine, while its Library Bar is a sophisticated setting to enjoy drinks. This hotel is a splendid urban sanctuary blending history, culture, and modern luxury.

BOOK YOUR STAY
Sanasaryan Han, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Istanbul




Sign up for our newsletter for inspiration, exclusive previews & luxury tips