The Best Hotels in Istanbul

1.

A'Jia Hotel

Waterfront Escape

Set within a former 1870s summer palace on the Bosphorous waterfront on Istanbul’s Asian shore, the exclusive A’Jia Hotel is one of the city’s most beautiful luxury residences. While the exterior facade of the building has been classified as a historical monument, there’s nothing classical about the cutting-edge contemporary interiors by acclaimed local architect Resit Soley. Designer with a minimalist, monochrome style that places the emphasis upon the spectacular water views, this is the perfect city escape for those looking to be close to the heart of the action, yet away from the urban chaos. 

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2.

4Floors Apartments

Local Experience

Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in Istanbul's historic Galata area, this ultra-stylish and original designer living space has been created by talented local designer, Sema Topaloğlu. Offering four contemporary private apartments within a beautifully restored 19th century building, each of the four floors of this boutique hotel have been designed in Topaloğlu's signature design style, with furniture and objects in natural materials and textured surfaces. Expect beautiful views through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the vibrant Beyoglu neighbourhood.

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3.

Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Luxury

With a rich and tumultuous history dating back to the 18th century, the waterfront Ciragan Palace has served as a luxurious Ottoman imperial palace, the seat of Istanbul’s Parliament, and even the barracks of the French troops during World War 1 during its lifetime. Having survived political intrigue, imperial family disputes and even a devastating fire in 1910 which burned the original building and its priceless furnishings to the ground, the palace was opulently restored in 1987 as a luxury hotel of unparalleled classical beauty.

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4.

TomTom Suites

Value

As one of our favourite hotels in Istanbul, the Tomtom Suites is an elegant, stylish yet cosy boutique hotel nestled in a quiet residential street in the trendy Beyoglu restaurant and nightlife district. Offering some of the best value for money rooms in town, the hotel’s sumptuously spacious rooms and suites feature panoramic views overlooking Istanbul’s old town. Sink into the depths of the unbelievably comfortable king sized beds, or enjoy a long bath in their deep soaking tubs after long days shopping and sightseeing in Istanbul.

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5.

Sumahan On The Water

Design

Tucked away in the upscale residential district on the Asian side of the Bosphorous waterfront is one of Istanbul’s most stylish design hotels, Sumahan on the Water. This peaceful contemporary sanctuary is a sleek yet comfortable oasis, an escape from Istanbul’s chaotic urban scene. The hotel’s Turkish-American owners, Mark and Nedret Butler, have transformed a derelict 19th century alcohol distillery into 20 spacious suites to dramatic effect, each offering beautiful views overlooking the picturesque scene of passing boats and fisherman on the Bosphorous River.

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6.

Witt Suites

Affordable Chic

Making Conde Nast’s Hot List in 2009 and receiving a host of awards and accolades since opening its doors in 2009, the Witt Istanbul is the kind of designer space that you wished was your personal home. Set within a residential 1980s building in the artistic district of Cihangir, the 17 generously proportioned, open-plan airy suites feel more like loft apartments than standard hotel rooms, where the 60 sqm suites showcase hip retro-modern design such as 1950s inspired leather lounges and oversized lamps. One of the best things about the Witt Suites is its highly affordable price tag.

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7.

Four Seasons

Luxury

Offering the epitome of contemporary luxury in true Four Seasons style, the Four Seasons group have two luxurious hotels in Istanbul, each offering a differing hotel experience. The first to open its doors was the classically elegant Four Seasons Sultanahmet in the heart of the ancient city. The building dates back to 1919 and was a prison until 1970, however the space has been transformedinto a beautiful and serene sanctuary of classical Eastern opulence. This is the perfect escape from the chaotic streets and tourist hordes outside, yet is positioned just next door to the iconic Blue Mosque. 

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8.

The House Hotel

Design

The House Hotel Groups is one of Istanbul's coolest and most affordable luxury boutique hotel options, with three hotels in the portfoilo all strategically located in Istanbul's coolest districts - Nisantasti, Galatsaray and Bosphorous districts. With a stylish modern design, the hotel's design gives a modern touch to the historic buildings that they're set within. Our favourite hotel is the boutique property located in Nisantasi, Istanbul’s most exclusive district for shopping, fashion and entertainment.

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9.

The Sofa Hotel

Fashionable

As a popular choice of the fashion crowd given its close proximity to Istanbul’s trendy fashion and shopping district in Nisantasi (on the doorstep of the Istanbul Fashion Academy and the City’s upscale shopping mall), The Sofa Hotel is a beautifully designed, comfortable living space for the urban traveller. Having opened its doors in 2006, the hotel offers clean, minimalist and sleek contemporary rooms and suites with soothing, earthy tones and polished wooden floors. Rooms are generously proportioned and offer special touches such as an “anything, anytime” 24-hour service button, and a 1,200 sqm basement spa and pool center.

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10.

Hotel Empress Zoe

Budget Chic

As one of Istanbul’s most affordable budget-chic accommodation options, the Hotel Empress Zoe is a great choice if you’re looking to stay in the heart of Istanbul’s landmark-rich ancient district of Sultanahmet. Tucked away behind a 15th century former bathhouse, the Hotel Empress Zoe is a labyrinth-like space with hidden rooms and passageways that reveal colourful and eclectic interiors of European and Oriental-inspired furnishings, antique wrought-iron and kilim-covered cushions. Enjoy a delicious breakfast outdoors in the hotel’s charming outdoor leafy green garden. 

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