Most Romantic Stays 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.

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.

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:

Built from the former Sultanahmet prison, this is hands down the best hotel in Istanbul. The prices certainly reflect that, but it's well worth the splurge.

Description:

With its rich tile and stone work, plush tapestries and antiques, it is difficult to believe that this luxury hotel was once a prison! Now the Four Seasons Hotel in Istanbul is a celebration of architecture with its one of a kind rooms and glass-enclosed courtyard. Located near historical buildings like Byzantine Haghia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, as well as commercial bazaars, it's right where all the action is. Check in to one of the many elegant and intimate guest rooms or suites, and then start exploring this exotic city at your own pace. Avail of the many facilities at the hotel, including a spa, health club, golf and tennis, or have an elegant meal at their in-house restaurant. Contact the Four Seasons today to work out an arrangement that suits you and your family best.

Description:

Renovated by the Turkish Touring & Automobile Association, the Kariye Hotel was once an Ottoman residence built in the 19th century. After having been stripped down to its framework, it was renovated and transformed into one of Istanbul's finest small hotels. The Asithane Restaurant downstairs serves up fine Ottoman cuisine. The hotel is situated right next door to the Church of St. Saviour in Chora - one of Istanbul's must-see sights. Unfortunately, the location is a little out of the way - a good half hour bus ride from the main attractions in Sultanahmet.

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:

Located in a Bosphorus mansion resembling a wedding cake, the Pasha is the city's most exclusive get-away. Similar in appearance to an English stately home, this gorgeous mini palace fronts one of the world's busiest waterways. The rooms are decorated with gilt furniture and heavy velvet drapes. To relax, why not slip into the jacuzzi and soak up the view of ships gliding beneath the awesome Atatürk Suspension Bridge. The high-class Italian restaurant, Cicconi's, is worth a visit - even if you can't afford a room.

Description:

Originally built in 1892 to accommodate weary travelers from the luxurious Orient Express, this elegant hotel offers wonderful views of the Golden Horn. Ataturk stayed here when he was in Istanbul and Agatha Chrisitie researched her novel Murder on the Orient Express while staying here, both these rooms are preserved as mini museums. The rooms and suites are elegant, luxurious, airy and spacious and beautifully decked out in period décor and matching furniture. The restaurant serves up copious amounts of authentic Ottoman cuisine and live jazz.

Description:

Named after the famous French novelist, the elegant Pierre Loti Hotel is a short walk from the Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia and all of the other historical monuments nearby. Nearby you'll find the bustling Covered Bazaar with its endless lanes and alleys filled with shops selling all manner of Türkish treasures and the historical Cemberlitas Hamam is not far down the street. The Pierre Loti Hotel is a three-star hotel with very comfortable facilities and near to public transport.