Straddling both Europe and Asia, the are few more atmospheric cities than Istanbul, where it can often feel that time has stood still – but never its hospitality scene.
(Photo: The Peninsula Istanbul / Courtesy Booking.com)
Dotted with Byzantine landmarks and awash with the sights, sounds and aromas of mercantile activity, the Turkish capital draws large numbers of visitors every year keen to delve into the city’s rich history, alluring food scene and dramatic setting on the Bosphorus Strait. When it comes to places to stay, Istanbul is blessed with a huge number of options, including several new hotels that have popped up in recent years. Here are 7 of the best.
The Peninsula Istanbul
Situated in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Karaköy, The Peninsula opened in February 2023 offering jaw-dropping views of some of the city’s most famous architectural marvels from almost every inch of its four separate buildings – three of which date back to the early 19th century and a fourth newly-constructed and nestled among verdant gardens. On entering the hotel, the central atrium is an instant attention-grabber with its glistening white marble, Art Deco chandeliers and gilded detailing. In the guest rooms, the emphasis is on sleek, subtle luxury, with neutral palettes punctuated by powder-blue carpets and lacquered surfaces. Elsewhere, there are several gourmet restaurants, an expansive rooftop terrace and a vast spa complex with a hammam and a showstopping 82-foot pool, lit by shimmering domes inspired by local mosques. Close to the hotel are several charming boutiques and cafes. From $615 per night.
Rixos Tersane
(Photo: Rixos Tersane / Courtesy Booking.com)
Cutting-edge luxury merges with Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage at the Rixos Tersane. Opened in spring 2023, the hotel is set in the revived Tersane historical district in the Golden Horn estuary of the Bosphorous river, where it forms part of a development transforming the historic Ottoman naval shipyards into the beating heart of Istanbul once more. As for the hotel itself, over 460 guest rooms and suites feature stylish décor and luxury amenities, and some suites have their own private terrace. An open kitchen in the all-day restaurant is a real show-stopper and a heated outdoor terrace, where buffet breakfasts are served, is ideal for evening drinks. Other notable facilities include a Cigar Lounge, an exclusive sports club offering daily activities and classes, and regular live evening entertainment. From $436 per night.
Çırağan Palace Kempinski
Once an Ottoman Imperial Palace that hosted Sultans, Çırağan Palace Kempinski’s heritage dates back to the 17th century. More recently, in mid-2023, the hotel reopened following a major refurb which propelled it into a new era of elegant luxury with a firm not to the past. Indeed, every detail of this redesign was inspired by the building’s history, including in the polished guest rooms and suites where Ottoman Empire-themed flourishes abound, such as mother-of-pearl inlaid furniture, marble bathrooms reflecting the style of Turkish baths, and bed headboards adorned with çintemani and tulip-patterned fabrics. Meanwhile, the hotel entrance, lobby and restaurants all showcase eye-catching Ottoman art. Contemporary touches can be found in the many top-class amenities, which include a lavish outdoor pool overlooking the Bosphorus, a fitness centre, a terrace, a cocktail bar and two gourmet restaurants. From $668 per night.
Sanasaryan Han
(Photo: Sanasaryan Han / Courtesy Booking.com)
Located in Istanbul’s Old Town district, just steps from the Spice and Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, this hotel opened in February 2024, housed within a striking Neoclassical structure dating back to 1895. In its latest incarnation it has been meticulously restored, complete with a light-filled atrium where a grand chandelier takes centre stage above warm furnishings and huge arched mirrors. Guestrooms boast a palette of black and cream, complemented by marble accents and turquoise furnishings, and the spacious bathrooms are inspired by ancient Turkish hammams. Each room also offers a Turkish tea set, inviting guests to savor aromatic tea in traditional glass cups. The on-site restaurant serves a menu of authentic Turkish dishes, while The Library Bar hosts weekly thespian events over cocktails. From $294 per night.
Orient Occident Hotel
(Photo: Orient Occident Hotel / Courtesy Booking.com)
Positioned in Istanbul’s Sirkeci neighbourhood, the boutique Orient Occident Hotel became the city’s 4th Autograph Collection Hotel by Marriott Bonvoy when it opened in late 2023 – and perhaps its most opulent. Amenities include a rooftop Mediterranean restaurant allowing for al fresco dining with panoramic views, a Lobby Bar, a patisserie selling traditional Turkish baked treats, a sumptuous spa with a steam room and a well-equipped fitness centre. The 40 meticulously designed guest rooms are no less impressive, seamlessly blending traditional décor and furnishings with the upmost in modernity. All rooms come with a LED TV and lager rooms also feature a living/sitting area. Close by, you can jump on a quick tram ride to the Sultanahmet district, where’ll reach its main attractions including the striking Ottoman-era Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia mosque within 10 minutes. From $349 per night.
Aloft Istanbul Karakoy
Part of a major expansion project by Marriott International that will see a whole host of new properties popping up across Turkey, Aloft Istanbul Karakoy will be housed in a historic Karaköy building on Bankalar Caddesi, also known as Voyvoda Caddesi, in the historic Galata quarter of the Istanbul district of Beyoğlu,l, when it opens in June 2024. Part of Marriott’s leading lifestyle brand, Alofrt, the lavish hotel will feature 115 ultra-modern guest rooms, as well as co-working spaces, a gourmet Italian restaurant, a bar with regular live music and a coffee shop.
Opening June 2024
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Istanbul Altunizade
Another hotel group with big plans across Turkey are Hilton, who are in the process of growing their presence with 11 new hotels across the country. Among them is the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Suites Istanbul Altunizade, which will be strategically positioned near the city’s First Bridge, connecting both sides of Istanbul, when it opens its doors in summer 2024. Offering 240 guest rooms, an indoor pool, a spa, a range of dining options and extensive meeting facilities, the property will target both business and leisure travellers.
Opening summer 2024