Best Luxury Hotels in Turkey
Turkey is the ultimate country of contrasts and fusion, the original cultural and ethnic melting pot. It will excite and inspire in equal measure. Geographically and culturally, it is where East meets West, where the call to prayer is heard over the pealing of church bells. Once the centre the Byzantine Empire and then of the Ottoman Empire, there is evidence everywhere – churches, mosques, monasteries, castles, forts – of the fascinating journey Turkey has been on since time immemorial. Istanbul (or Constantinople, depending on which historical period floats your boat) is the most populous city in Europe and straddles the Bosphorous Straight that separates Europe from Asia. Cultural highlights include the Byzantine Hagia Sophia mosque, the Ottoman Blue Mosque and the Greek Orthodox Hagia Triada. If you’re looking for a little retail therapy, the Grand Bazaar is an absolute must.
Beyond the cities, the contrasts continue unabated. The mountains are super-sized and the forests deep, lush and green. The other-worldly topography of the Cappadocia region is truly mind-blowing and best viewed from the basket of a hot air balloon. Not to forget the plethora of ancient coastal towns and modern beach resorts – the nearly 5,000-mile coastline has hidden coves and expansive beaches for every shade of sun worshipper. The food fusion is a delight for every palate, with inspiration drawn from Eastern Europe, the Balkans, Arabia, the Mediterranean and the Maghreb.
Read on to discover some of our favourite luxury hotels in Turkey.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Besiktas
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
This hotel was transformed from a 19th-century palace to one of the most luxurious places you can stay when vacationing in Istanbul. It is located in Bosphorus, one of the best neighbourhoods in the city. This location allows visitors to watch the romantic sunset from a waterfront position. The hotel has 170 guest rooms, and these include 25 suites. The entire building features ancient Ottoman architecture, and the decorations are also inspired by contemporary designs. Visitors can also enjoy spending time in the large outdoor swimming pool that overlooks the Bosphorus Strait. Alternatively, they can spend time in the well-lit underground swimming pool. This one also features underwater music.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Beyoglu
10 Karakoy
The Luxury Editor discovered that if you want to get the inside track on the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul then stay in the über-cool Karaköy district. And the best address to call home? Well that’s ‘10 Karaköy’, a Morgans Original Hotel. Found in a landmark, renovated neo-classical building, transformed by award-winning architect Sinan Kafada, this luxury boutique property, with signature Rudolf restaurant by Rudolf van Nunen, is filled with art, and striking design. Expect style, glamour and luxury at this 71-room hotel.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Sisli
The Ritz Carlton Istanbul
This hotel is set near the Taksim Square, and that puts visitors within walking distance of many tourist attractions in the city. A notable advantage of this hotel is the east-facing rooms that give you a perfect view of the beautiful Bosphorus. This is the best place to stay in if you enjoy watching the sunset as you enjoy a glass of wine. The rooms in this hotel are spacious, and they all reflect some forms of Ottoman designs.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Sisli
Park Hyatt Istanbul – Macka Palas
This hotel is set in the Nisantasi neighbourhood, and this place has been noted to be one of the best shopping centres in the city. The hotel is housed in a historic building that was constructed in 1922. It has, however, been redesigned to match modern levels of luxury and convenience, especially with regard to the showers and tubs. One of the highlights of this hotel is the wine bar that serves 70 varieties. It also has a fitness centre, free Wi-Fi, two meeting rooms and a spa.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Besiktas
W Istanbul
This hotel is located in the central part of Istanbul. The Nisantasi shopping centre is just about 15 minutes away from the hotel. The construction and design of this building have generally transformed the surrounding areas since it features classy modern architecture. That being said, some aspects of traditional Islamic architecture have been retained as references to the history of the place. The hotel has many useful amenities, including a spa and free Wi-Fi. It is important to note that Wi-Fi is only free in the public spaces of the hotel.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Besiktas
Raffles Istanbul
Raffles is part of the award-winning Zorlu Centre. Unlike many of the surrounding hotels, it is designed with a modern Turkish look. It doesn’t feature any Ottoman references. The public spaces outside the hotel are adorned with Turkish and international art. The hotel has many essential services. These include a kids’ club, bar, restaurant, sauna, steam room, fitness centre, pool, laundry and room service. They also have free Wi-Fi. The rooms are beautifully designed with works of art that are inspired by the Blue Mosque. They also have Nespresso machines and tablet computers for guests. Raffles has two restaurants: Arola and Lavinia. The first one focuses on Spanish cuisine while the second one specialises in contemporary Turkish mezes.
Marmara Region, Istanbul, Besiktas
Shangri-La Bosphorus
This hotel is part of a Hong-Kong group. It is located in Besiktas district on the European banks of the Bosphorus Strait. The hotel has a classic design, with a lot of marble being part of the construction. To complete the look, the hotel employs Turkish and Asian staff. Service in the hotel is personalised and swift. Some available amenities in the hotel include a bar, laundry, pool, room service, hammam, fitness centre, parking and a restaurant. The hotel has 186 rooms, and these have been noted to be some of the most spacious in the entire city.
Central Anatolia Region, Urgup
Seraphim Cave Hotel
For an exceptional and authentic Cappadocia experience with top quality service and the luxury facilities expected of a 5-star resort, the Seraphim Cave Hotel is the place to stay. Housed in a historic mansion built in 1853, protected on the historic register, the hotel has lots of charming public spaces including a stunning terrace bar ideal for taking in the famous sunsets and the serene courtyard is the perfect place to spend a relaxed evening. Each of the 21 rooms are unique with dark antique-style furniture and opulent textiles, creating individual indulgent cave-like hideaways. Guests at the a la carte Tasula Restaurant can enjoy the finest authentic local cuisine. For relaxation, the hotel boasts a wellness area with an indoor heated pool, sauna, massage rooms and Turkish bath.
Central Anatolia Region, Urgup
Kayakapi Premium Caves
This carefully UNESCO supported renovated historical building near Urgup offers the perfect romantic getaway, special family occasion or an educational adventure. The boutique hotel boasts spacious rooms, each with unique features like fireplaces, natural stone bathtubs, or personal hammam sauna, courtyard or terrace. All cavernous, softly lit rooms feature under floor heating and are peacefully neutral in décor. The hotel boasts a lovely swimming pool for respite from the summer heat, whilst the onsite spa offers a range of massage and beauty treatments. The hotel has two dining options but is also just a five minute walk from Urgup town centre within Goreme National Park.
Aegean Region, Torba
Casa dell’Arte Hotel of Arts & Leisure
The magical fishing village of Torba is home to the stunning and super stylish Casa dell’Arte. Specialist art collections adorn the walls at this boutique hotel that comprises of just twelve rooms and suites, each named after a sign of the zodiac. Choose from panoramic sea-view suites to duplex or dome suites – all of which are elegantly appointed with a contemporary design. Guests can make use of the private pool and private jetty for a refreshing dip or indulge in some pampering with massage and spa facilities. Yoga and tennis can also be arranged whilst for seafaring types, there is a private yacht for hire complete with expert crew and again decorated with a private and impressive art collection. Dining here is an exquisite experience as head Chef at the hotels’ renowned restaurant creates beautifully presented dishes and mouth-watering flavours all inspired by the unique geography of Bodrum. Buffet breakfast presents fresh and local ingredients that can be enjoyed in the well-manicured gardens or in the beautifully appointed and intimate dining room and drinks and snacks are served throughout the day and can be enjoyed at any of the hotel’s private and luxurious spaces. This is a place that will make you feel very special.
Aegean Region, Golturkbuku
Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum
Set in a stunning location overlooking the emerald blue Aegean Sea, the Mandarin Oriental offers extreme comfort and class over 59 guest rooms, 29 suites and 36 apartments, each designed with an impeccable eye for contemporary Turkish and Oriental fusion styled furnishings. With 2 private beaches, a sumptuous spa and a wide-ranging variety of cuisines to choose from, you’re guaranteed to feel relaxed and inspired in this opulent beachfront resort. The Mandarin Oriental lives up to its name in this palatial five-star resort, where guests can indulge in lavish services and facilities which include everything from yoga to designer shopping.
Aegean Region, Torba
Voyage Torba
This beautiful beachfront resort is located in the picturesque village of Torba, with views across the sparkling Aegean Sea and a mountainous backdrop it’s difficult to believe that bustling Bodrum is just 6km away. The hotel boasts superb facilities for family fun including designated kids’ pools, sports activities and evening entertainment, however the sophisticated adult only areas offer a quieter pace for those preferring a more mature holiday. Experienced and talented chefs create culinary delights at the eight al carte restaurants, whilst the open buffet is rich and plentiful in its offering. The resort is home to twelve concept bars for innovative drinks and musical entertainment. The 495-room resort offers a range of room options; from standard garden and sea view through to executive and private deluxe lagoon. For those wishing to enjoy a VIP experience the Voyage Assistant is on hand to arrange the finest of details to make your holiday simply perfect.