Best of Exclusive Lodging Options in Istanbul

Our Local Expert Says:

Most luxurious hotel along the Bosphorus Strait

Description:

Les Ottomans, located on the banks of the mighty Bosphorus, is a 10-suite hotel oozing ultraluxury from every pore. From the bathroom fixtures to the pillowcase fabric and the wildly attentive staff, no expense has been spared. The decor blends the best of Turkish tradition with the most modern of cutting-edge innovations. The on-site restaurant earns rave reviews from the international jet set, the in-house Q Jazz Club hosts celebrities on a near-nightly basis, and the spa is renowned the world around.

Description:

The two buildings of this hotel, once the former residence of the Ottoman Sultan, are nestled on the glowing shores of the Bosporus Strait. Just a short drive from the airport, all of the rooms are richly furnished and fitted with several amenities, and some offer magnificent views of the sea. The hotel boasts of many in-restaurants and bars to take care of your gastronomic needs, and excellent facilities to ensure the success of any corporate event. For sightseeing, there is the nearby Oratakoy District, where you will find that most eateries serve fish delicacies. The area is also popular for its antique stores, jewelry shops and handicrafts. The shopping zone of Akmerkez is also just a short drive away.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the best by-the-sea boutique hotels

Description:

Formerly an alcohol factory producing suma -the unadulterated spirit used to make rakı (the Turkish Ouzo)-, the establishment of Sumahan as a boutique hotel was a long standing wish that its owner-architects had. Nedret Ercan Butler and Mark Butler were both studying architecture in Minnesota, USA when they met. Nedret Ercan Butler established the "Sumahan Project" as her thesis for graduation. The couple brought that to life years later when they returned to Istanbul. With a magnificent view of the Istanbul skyline and bustling waterside activity, the hotel is indeed a charming place. Adjacent to the hotel is the in-house seafood restaurant, called Kordon Balık. However, one may also lunch or dine inside the Sumahan itself (great salads and sample mezes). It is also possible to sign up for transport and a guide to see around and perhaps discover other enchanting places. Or, ask for the hotel-boat-shuttle to take across to the European side and make discoveries on your own. When you come back, relax in the sublime Turkish bath at the hotel's health center. With its modern, cozy rooms and location, it personifies the romantic spirit of the city. read more

Description:

Modern white façade hotel, set on the banks of the Bosphorus River, 15 kilometres from the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sofia. Air-conditioned rooms with light pastel decor and contemporary furnishings have flat screen TVs and wireless Internet access. Guests can unwind in the wellness centre where facilities include a gym and Turkish steam bath; massage treatments available.

Description:

Guests can revitalize in the wellness centre with a sauna, Turkish bath, thalassotherapy, massage and beauty treatments, and the gym offers state-of-the-art equipment and aerobics lessons. There is also an indoor swimming pool accompanied by a hot tub, and the coffee shop and bar offer a wide selection of drinks. Other amenities at Sofa Hotel & Residences include conference and banquet facilities, five function rooms, a concierge, a 24-hour front desk, currency exchange and complimentary Internet connections.

Description:

This hotel is set in a mirrored tower, contrasting with the historic Akaretler Row Houses and gilded domes around it. The front desk, which operates an express check-in and check-out service, and the concierge desk both operate 24 hours with multilingual staff who can arrange transport and tours. There is wireless Internet access in public areas and a video library. Complimentary and valet parking are available. Pets are permitted at the hotel. W Istanbul's Spice Market by Jean-Georges restaurant, with its contemporary design in dark wood, brass and stone, serves Thai and Vietnamese-inspired dishes. The hotel provides breakfast at a surcharge. Guests can sample a range of cocktails in the Living Room. Business facilities at the hotel include eight meeting rooms and a computer rental service. W Istanbul has fitness equipment on site and two massage treatment rooms. Guestrooms. Decorated in a decadent Turkish style, the 134 air-conditioned and high-ceilinged guestrooms have scarlet and coffee-toned fabrics. Beds are fitted with 350-count cotton sheets and goose-down pillows. All rooms have balconies and are equipped with MP3 docking stations, satellite television, DVD players, CD players... read more