Turkey · 20 handpicked hotels
Istanbul bridges two continents and six thousand years of history. From Ottoman palaces on the Bosphorus to boutique hotels in the historic peninsula, the city that was once Constantinople offers the world's most dramatic hotel settings.
Our selection
Beşiktaş
An 1870 Ottoman palace on the Bosphorus with the most dramatic setting of any hotel in Istanbul. The outdoor pool on the water's edge and Tugra restaurant are extraordinary.
Sultanahmet
A converted 19th-century prison directly facing the Hagia Sophia. Waking up to the sound of the call to prayer with minarets visible from your window is unforgettable.
Beşiktaş
A 19th-century Ottoman mansion on the Bosphorus with exquisite interiors, waterfront dining and the hushed luxury of a setting that genuinely has no equal.
Beşiktaş
A contemporary luxury hotel in a converted tobacco warehouse on the Bosphorus. The Shang Palace restaurant, spa and water views make this an exceptional address.
Zorlu Centre
Istanbul's most glamorous contemporary hotel in the Zorlu Centre. The rooftop pool, Long Bar and AROLA restaurant by Sergi Arola are the city's most fashionable addresses.
Beyoğlu
Opened in 1895 to serve Orient Express travellers, the Pera Palace drips with history. Agatha Christie wrote Murder on the Orient Express in Room 411.
Beyoğlu
The members' club and hotel that arrived in a historic Beyoğlu building. The rooftop pool, cinema and social energy have made this the centre of Istanbul's creative scene.
Galatasaray
An elegant neoclassical building in the heart of Beyoğlu with beautiful rooms, excellent service and the best position for exploring Istanbul's historic European quarter.
Galata
A historic Genoese building in Galata with a rooftop terrace, beautiful rooms and the charm of one of Istanbul's most atmospheric neighbourhoods.
Karaköy
A converted 19th-century bank vault in the hip Karaköy neighbourhood with dramatically high ceilings, original details and a brilliantly social bar.
Karaköy
An intimate boutique in the heart of Karaköy with bold design, excellent rooftop views and the vibrant neighbourhood energy that has made this district Istanbul's most exciting.
Beşiktaş
Ian Schrager's Istanbul debut is a sleek waterfront tower with a rooftop bar, pool and some of the finest Bosphorus views in the city. A genuinely exciting arrival.
Beşiktaş
A sleek contemporary hotel with dramatic Bosphorus views, a rooftop pool and all the facilities of a full-service luxury hotel for a competitive Istanbul price.
Levent
A stylish tower hotel in the business district with panoramic city views, excellent facilities and comfortable rooms for those with business in the financial quarter.
Maçka
Perched on a hill above the Bosphorus with sweeping water views, an excellent spa and the most reliable luxury hotel experience in the city.
Beyoğlu
A converted 1901 Franciscan chapel and convent in Beyoğlu with 20 suites, rooftop views and one of Istanbul's most original and romantic atmospheres.
Beyoğlu
A design hotel that houses one of Istanbul's most celebrated restaurants. The rooftop bar and Bosphorus views make this a favourite gathering point for the city's creative class.
Galata
Stylish apartments in the Galata neighbourhood for longer stays. A kitchen, separate living area and local neighbourhood character make this ideal for extended visits.
Sultanahmet
A charming Ottoman house with 17 rooms, all named after the nights of the Istanbul calendar. Steps from the Blue Mosque with rooftop views of the ancient peninsula.
Sultanahmet
A hotel that doubles as a private archaeology museum, with 3rd-century mosaics in the lobby and rooms facing the Hagia Sophia. One of Istanbul's most unusual stays.