
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.
Central Anatolia Region, Urgup
Seraphim Cave Hotel
(5 stars)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, Ankara
Lugal, a Luxury Collection Hotel
(5 stars)Found in Kavaklidere, Lugal has 90 bedrooms and suites with great views, state-of-the-art technology and butler service. The on-site restaurant, Aruni, serves indigenous a la carte dishes, allowing international guests to experience a taste of Turkey in-house. And a room service menu caters to those of all ages, with a selection, especially for kids. Those staying here have access to the health club in the Sheraton Ankara Hotel (access is via a private lift and tunnel) which offers a roof-top tennis court, a large gym and massage services). Lugal is Green Key certified and committed to sustainability within the hotel industry.
Aegean Region, Bitez
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Bodrum
(5 stars)The Ramada Resort by Wyndham sits overlooking Kos Island from a hillside not far from the centre of Bodrum. The hotel is comprised of spacious and modern rooms with some offering balconies. On-site dining is available in either of the hotel’s two restaurants while a breakfast buffet is also on offer. There are two bars for guests to enjoy the spectacular sea views from this beautiful hotel. There are indoor and outdoor swimming pools for guests of all ages to enjoy. The hotel’s spa and wellness facilities include a Hammam, a sauna and a steam room for those looking to unwind. There is a fully equipped fitness centre in addition to squash and tennis courts for those looking to stay active on holiday. The hotel offers elegant meeting and function facilities featuring a banquet hall for up to 500 guests. This hotel is pet friendly.
Mediterranean Region Turkey, Belek
Gloria Serenity Resort
(5 stars)Surrounded by fragrant pine forests of Belek and beside a private beach, a stay at the Gloria Serenity Resort promises relaxation and glamour in equal quantities. Highlights include an ozone-treated seawater wraparound pool spanning the length of the property, access to three top golf courses, a selection of floodlit clay tennis courts, a chic spa, high-quality live entertainment and free entry to a charming local zoo. The 369 rooms are separated into eight different accommodation types, while the resort’s kitchens provide an international range of cuisines served buffet-style and a la carte. Gloria Serenity’s on-site convention centre and spacious meeting rooms make it popular for those travelling on business, as well as pleasure.
Aegean Region, Torba
Voyage Torba
(5 stars)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.
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.
Aegean Region, Izmir, Balcova
Wyndham Grand Izmir Ozdilek
(5 stars)A sophisticated, glass-walled circular skyscraper, the Wyndham Grand Izmir Ozdilek is a glamorous and spectacular sight on the Anatolian Coast. With 219 bedrooms (all with floor-to-ceiling views), ten event spaces and seven restaurants, it provides plenty of choices for both the business and leisure traveller. Swim in indoor and outdoor pools, follow the thermal journey and take a Turkish bath at its Qualitas Spa; work out in its fitness suite; do a spot of souvenir shopping at the gift boutique; and have a flutter at the casino. The Wyndham Grand Izmir Ozdilek is very family-friendly providing a playground, childrens’ activities and babysitting services.
Aegean Region, Göcek
D-Resort Göcek
(5 stars)With its natural coves and wonderful beaches, D-Resort Göcek is a hidden treasure which seamlessly blends nature and luxury to offer guests an enriching experience. Rooms and suites combine contemporary architectural design with beautiful finishes to present a superb selection of accommodation options. The three onsite restaurants boast absolute individual style, ambience and menus with all three presenting dishes creatively prepared using the freshest of locally sourced ingredients. There are plenty of activities for the more energetic guests including a state of the art fitness centre and gym along with studio classes and variety of water sports. And when all you want to do is kick back and relax the extensive spa welcomes guest to relax in the Zen Garden, enjoy a Jacuzzi, Hamman, sauna, steam room, ice fountain, vitality pool or perhaps indulge in an award-winning skincare treatment by ERICSON LABORATOIRE.
Aegean Region, Bodrum
Bodrum Loft
(5 stars)Bodrum Loft is set in a uniquely designed building in keeping with the natural beauty of the area. The resort is comprised of 36 completely furnished and beautifully decorated units complete with every modern comfort. There are options to reserve entire units, one-bedroom apartments or superior rooms. There are three restaurants including the sensational Michelin-recommended Loft Elia which served locally sourced ingredients all throughout the day while offering sensational views. Private dining is also available at this resort and there are two bars which invite you to unwind and take in the views of the Aegean Sea. The Patisserie Loft by Vakko L’Atelier is a tempting boulangerie open all day and serving authentic French delights. The hotel spa is found in a verdant garden and offers treatments and wellness facilities to guests throughout their stay. Bodrum Loft offers an open-air fitness centre with the option of personal training. A stay here also provides you with optional amenities including hairdressing and babysitting services.
Aegean Region, Golturkbuku
Divan Bodrum Palmira
(5 stars)A boutique hotel within a secluded and serene setting, the Divan Bodrum offers exquisite access to the Aegean Sea with its sandy beaches and seaborne excursions. Described as one of the most excellent choices on the Mediterranean by the famed publisher Condé Nast, guests can expect both luxury and relaxation in this traditional stone-built resort. The hotel features 60 rooms from standard guest rooms to deluxe suites, with a simple, traditional style consisting of colourful furnishings, large windows and airy, spacious rooms. Its restaurant specialises in local Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine, with stunning seafood, meats and vegetable which draw on the region’s multicultural culinary landscape. We recommend sipping on an inspired cocktail in the waterfront bar, relaxing in one of the hammocks as the sun sets over the Aegean Sea.
