Istanbul is a city straddling two continents and is a testament to history’s ebb and flow. Known by the ancient names of Byzantium and later Constantinople, Istanbul has been the capital of three great empires: the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. The best hotels in Istanbul are nestled amid this rich and varied history, evident in the city’s architecture, from the towering minarets of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the ancient city walls of Constantinople and the opulent palaces of Ottoman sultans.
Top 15 Best Hotels in Istanbul 2024
In Istanbul, where East meets West, the city is abundant in history and culture, but the luxurious places to stay make it even more special. The best hotels in Istanbul offer perfect views of historical monuments, vibrant neighborhoods, or stunning sights of the Bosphorus. From former Ottoman palaces to modern design marvels, these luxury accommodations blend modernity and tradition to ensure a memorable stay in one of the world’s most fascinating cities.
Here is the list of the top 15 best hotels in Istanbul for 2024. Each hotel has been chosen for its comfort, elegance, and authenticity. Details provided include names, addresses, amenities, prices, facilities, services, USPs, accessibility features, locations, ratings, and reservation details. Whether for business, leisure, or special occasions, the best hotels in Istanbul offer a range of options to accommodate diverse tastes and ensure an exceptional stay.
1. Raffles Istanbul
- Rating: 4.8
- Address: Zorlu Center, Koru Sokagı, Besiktas, 34340 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2014
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Zorlu Shopping Center, Bosphorus, Ortakoy Mosque
- Facilities and Amenities: Spa, outdoor/indoor pools, fitness center, meeting rooms, spacious rooms with modern design, rooftop bar, gourmet restaurants
- Ideal For: Contemporary art lovers, luxury seekers, business travelers
2. Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
- Rating: 4.8
- Address: Visnezade Mahallesi, Acısu Sokagı No:19, Besiktas, 34357 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 1991
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Dolmabahçe Palace, Nisantası, Taksim Square, Bosphorus and Galata Tower.
- Facilities and Amenities: Spa, rooftop pool, tennis courts, event spaces, rooms with Bosphorus views, multiple dining options, and spacious suites.
- Ideal For: Families, business travelers, luxury seekers
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul is a premier luxury hotel in the upscale Besiktas district, offering stunning, panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait. As one of the best hotels in Istanbul, it features elegantly designed rooms and suites, with some providing private balconies that overlook the Bosphorus. Additionally, the hotel boasts top-notch amenities, including an award-winning spa, multiple swimming pools, a comprehensive fitness center, and tennis courts.
Moreover, among the best hotels in Istanbul, Swissotel The Bosphorus stands out for its premium services. Guests can enjoy 24-hour room service and concierge assistance. In addition, the hotel offers a range of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual cafes and bars located on various floors. A notable highlight of the hotel is its extensive green spaces, which provide a serene retreat amidst the city’s vibrancy.
Furthermore, Swissotel The Bosphorus is fully accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests, including those with disabilities. Its prime location, close to Dolmabahce Palace and the Nisantası shopping district, makes it an ideal choice for families, business travelers, and leisure seekers. Consequently, it blends luxury, convenience, and breathtaking views, affirming its status as one of the best hotels in Istanbul.
Reserve your place at Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul. Check Availability!
3. Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
- Rating: 4.7
- Address: Cıragan Caddesi 32, Besiktas, 34349 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 1991
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Bosphorus
- Facilities and Amenities: Outdoor infinity pool, spa, fitness center, business center, event spaces, elegant rooms with Bosphorus views, fine dining restaurants, and private balconies
- Ideal For: Luxury travelers, history enthusiasts, special events
Book your stay at Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul Check availability.
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4. Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul
- Rating: 4.7
- Address: Tevkifhane Sokak No. 1, Sultanahmet, 34110 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 1996
- Proximity to Attractions: A few steps from Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace
- Facilities and Amenities: Rooftop terrace, spa, fitness center, business facilities, Ottoman-inspired rooms, fine dining, courtyard views
- Ideal For: History buffs, couples, cultural explorers
5. Pera Palace Hotel
- Rating: 4.7
- Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi No:52, Tepebasi, 34430 Beyoglu, Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2010
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Istiklal Avenue, Galata Tower, Taksim Square
- Facilities and Amenities: Spa, gym, conference rooms, library, classic rooms with historic decorations, Agatha Christie suite, traditional tea lounge
- Ideal For: History lovers, literary enthusiasts, couples
6. Hotel Amira Istanbul
- Rating: 4.7
- Address: Küçük Ayasofya, Mustafa Paşa Sk. No: 43, Fatih, Istanbul, 34122, Türkiye
- Founded: 2010
- Proximity to Attractions: Centrally located in Istanbul, within walking distance to major attractions such as Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
- Facilities and Amenities: Breakfast buffet, a cozy lounge area, a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, flat-screen TVs, minibar, and in-room safes.
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers, first-time visitors to Istanbul, and those seeking a comfortable stay in a historic area.
Hotel Amira Istanbul is a charming boutique hotel situated in the historic Sultanahmet district. This well-regarded establishment offers modern facilities and services designed for a comfortable stay. Each morning, guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet featuring fresh, local options.
The hotel boasts a cozy lounge, a 24-hour front desk, and convenient services such as dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, free self parking, city tours and airport transfers. Additionally, rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and in-room safes. Tea and coffee-making facilities are also provided.
What distinguishes Hotel Amira Istanbul is its excellent location in Sultanahmet, which provides easy access to major attractions such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Moreover, the hotel blends traditional Turkish hospitality with modern comforts, making it an ideal base for budget travelers eager to explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture.
Plan your stay at Hotel Amira Istanbul – Check availability here!
7. The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul
- Rating: 4.6
- Address: Suzer Plaza, Elmadag, Askerocagı Caddesi No: 15, Sisli, 34367 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2001 (Renovated: 2018)
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Nisantası shopping district
- Facilities and Amenities: Spa, indoor pool, fitness center, business center, event spaces, contemporary rooms, rooftop restaurant, and personalized service
- Ideal For: Luxury travelers, business professionals, honeymooners
The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul is one of the more luxurious luxury hotels with a view over the Bosphorus and the city skyline. The five-star hotel is beautifully decorated with contemporarily decorated rooms and suites, with most of them having breathtaking views either over the water or of the Istanbul skyline. With a stay at the hotel, you will be located in Istanbul, a few minutes walk from Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Acibadem Taksim Hospital and Demiroren Istiklal.
The hotel has business facilities which include a business center, meeting rooms, conference center, and indeed event spaces able to host corporate functions and private events alike. Other amenities include a full-service spa (massages, body treatments, and facials), an indoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and many dining choices, including a fine dining rooftop restaurant.
The hotel is fully accessible, with rooms and facilities adapted to suit the needs of physically challenged guests. It can be rated among the best as it boasts a central location, luxurious amenities, and outstanding service that allow guests to experience unforgettable sophistication while residing in the heart of Istanbul.
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul? Check availability now!
8. Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul
- Rating: 4.6
- Address: Sinanpasa Mahallesi, Hayrettin İskelesi Sokak No:1, Besiktas, 34353 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2013
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus Strait, Besiktas Ferry Terminal
- Facilities and Amenities: CHI Spa, indoor pool, fitness center, meeting spaces, elegant rooms with Bosphorus views, fine dining, and luxurious bathrooms.
- Ideal For: Waterfront lovers, luxury travelers, romantic getaways
9. The St. Regis Istanbul
- Rating: 4.6
- Address: Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi No:35, Nisantası, 34367 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2015
- Ideal For: Luxury shoppers, business travelers, art lovers
- Facilities and Amenities: Iridium Spa, rooftop pool, fitness center, event spaces, butler service, rooms with artwork, and rooftop restaurant.
- Proximity to Attractions: Located in the heart of Nisantası shopping district, near Macka Park
The St. Regis Istanbul is a sophisticated luxury hotel situated in the prestigious Nisantası district, renowned for its high-end shopping and fashion scene. It features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each adorned with bespoke furnishings and artwork. Many of these rooms offer stunning views of Macka Park or the Bosphorus.
Among its world-class facilities, the hotel boasts an indoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and the renowned Iridium Spa. In addition, guests can take advantage of the exceptional services offered, including the signature St. Regis Butler Service, 24-hour room service, and personalized concierge assistance. Moreover, guests can dine at Spago by Wolfgang Puck, located on the rooftop, which offers exquisite cuisine and panoramic city views.
Situated right in the heart of Istanbul’s most fashionable district, the hotel provides a blend of sophistication and comfort that appeals to a diverse range of guests. The hotel’s prime location places it just steps away from luxury boutiques, art galleries, and landmarks like Dolmabahce Palace. Its exceptional services and central location make it a premier choice for experiencing the best of Istanbul.
To stay at The St. Regis Istanbul – Check availability here!
10. CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
- Rating: 4.5
- Address: Gumussuyu Mahallesi, InonU Caddesi No:8, Beyoglu, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2013
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue, Bosphoru
- Facilities and Amenities: Spa, indoor pool, fitness center, conference rooms, rooms with Bosphorus views, multiple dining options, and terrace suites.
- Ideal For: Business travelers, families, luxury seekers
The CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul is one of the five-star luxury hotels in the city center, just a short walking distance from Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue, Bosphorus. Accommodation includes rooms and suites well-appointed with parquet flooring, some of which also have private balconies displaying breathtaking views over the Bosphorus.
The hotel includes a fully equipped fitness center, indoor swimming pool, a business center, wired internet access and world-class spa facilities are just among facilities at guests’ disposal. The facilities at CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul are plentiful, and the restaurants cater to every kind of taste. Specifically, they range from finery to casual cafes and feature an international menu alongside traditional Turkish cuisine.
One of the unique selling points of CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul is its combination of modern luxury with a prime location and stunning views of the Bosphorus. The hotel is excellent for business travelers, families, and tourists who plan on sightseeing within Istanbul while enjoying their luxurious and top-of-the-line accommodations.
Planning a stay at CVK Park Bosphorus? Check availability here!
11. Soho House Istanbul
- Rating: 4.5
- Address: Meşrutiyet Caddesi No:56, Beyoğlu, 34430 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2015
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Istiklal Avenue, Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Sanatorium Gallery and Pera Palace Hotel
- Facilities and Amenities: Gym, screening room, event spaces, members’ club, stylish rooms with modern decor, multiple bars and restaurants, and rooftop terrace
- Ideal For: Creative professionals, trendsetters, young professionals
Soho House Istanbul is a chic, quality-driven members’ club and hotel located in the heart of trendy Beyoglu. Housed in the historic Palazzo Corpi, a stunning 19th-century building, it seamlessly blends contemporary comforts with vintage charm.
Guests at Soho House Istanbul can enjoy a range of amenities, including a rooftop pool that offers panoramic views of the area. In addition, the hotel boasts a state-of-the-art gym, luxurious spa treatments, and various dining options. Cecconi’s restaurant, for instance, serves traditional Italian cuisine in a sleek and sophisticated setting. Furthermore, the hotel includes several bars, a screening room, and versatile event spaces, making it a vibrant social hub for creative professionals.
The hotel features uniquely designed rooms and suites that tastefully combine modern amenities with a vintage feel. Many of these accommodations showcase original frescoes and bespoke furniture, adding to the hotel’s distinctive character.
The unique blend of modern luxury and artistic heritage at Soho House Istanbul creates a lively and creative atmosphere for guests. Conveniently located near Istiklal Avenue and the historic Galata Tower, Soho House Istanbul is perfect for artists, designers, and anyone seeking a culturally rich experience in the heart of Istanbul.
Now book your stay at Soho House Istanbul – Check availability.
12. 10 Karakoy Istanbul
- Rating: 4.5
- Address: Kemankes Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Kemankes Caddesi No:10, Karakoy, 34425 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2014
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Galata Bridge, Galata Tower, Spice Bazaar
- Facilities: Fitness center, event spaces, business services
- Amenities: Stylish rooms with contemporary decorations, rooftop bar, trendy restaurant
- Ideal For: Urban explorers, couples, business travelers
Are you thinking of staying at 10 Karakoy Istanbul? Check availability now!
13. The Marmara Taksim
- Rating: 4.4
- Address: Taksim Meydanı, Beyoğlu, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 1976
- Proximity to Attractions: Situated at Taksim Square, near Istiklal Avenue, Galata Tower
- Facilities and Amenities: Rooftop pool, spa, fitness center, event spaces, panoramic city views, contemporary rooms, and multiple dining options
- Ideal For: Business travelers, tourists, cultural explorers
The Marmara Taksim is one of Istanbul’s premier luxury hotels, centrally located at bustling Taksim Square step from Istiklal Avenue, Taksim Square, and Galataport. The hotel boasts stunning views of either the Bosphorus or the vibrant cityscape from its elegantly decorated rooms and suites.
Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a sparkling rooftop pool, a sauna, and a seasonal outdoor pool, a fully equipped fitness center, and a rejuvenating spa (massages, body treatments, and facials). Dining options are diverse, featuring international and Turkish cuisine at the hotel’s outlets, a stylish bar, and well-equipped meeting and event spaces. Moreover, services such as 24-hour room service, concierge support, and customized city tours ensure a comfortable and convenient stay.
The Marmara Taksim’s prime location in Taksim Square offers easy access to Istanbul’s top cultural, shopping, and entertainment experiences. Additionally, the hotel is fully accessible and accommodates guests for both business and leisure travelers seeking indulgence and convenience in the heart of Istanbul.
Reserve your room at The Marmara Taksim. Check availability!
14. Rixos Pera Istanbul
- Rating:4.4
- Address: Kamer Hatun Mahallesi, Mesrutiyet Caddesi No:44, Beyoglu, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
- Founded: 2012
- Proximity to Attractions: Near Istiklal Avenue, Taksim Square, Pera Museum
- Facilities and Amenities: Spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, elegant rooms with classic decorations, rooftop terrace, and luxury suites.
- Ideal For: Art lovers, history enthusiasts, luxury travelers
15. Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
- Rating: 4.2
- Address: Alemdar, Ticarethane Sk. No: 10, Fatih, Istanbul, 34122, Türkiye
- Founded: 2014
- Proximity to Attractions: Walking distance to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace
- Facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, spa with Turkish bath, garden restaurant serving Turkish and international cuisine
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, flat-screen TVs, minibars, in-room safes, tea/coffee-making facilities, 24-hour room service, complimentary breakfast, concierge services
- Ideal For: Families, couples, and first-time visitors exploring Istanbul’s historic sites
Conclusion
The top 15 hotels in Istanbul offer a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry while combining modern amenities with unparalleled comfort. For instance, the opulent Ciragan Palace Kempinski provides stunning Bosphorus views, whereas the historic charm of Pera Palace Hotel adds a touch of classic elegance. Consequently, these accommodations ensure a memorable stay.
Hotels in Sultanahmet, for example, provide easy access to landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. In contrast, properties in Beyoglu and Karakoy offer a contemporary vibe, characterized by art, nightlife, and shopping. Moreover, many of these hotels feature luxurious amenities, including rooftop terraces, indulgent spas, and fine dining that highlights Turkish cuisine.
Additionally, exceptional service enhances the experience at these hotels. They offer personalized concierge assistance, airport transfers, and tailored city tours. Furthermore, accessibility features are thoughtfully integrated to ensure that all guests are welcomed.
Ultimately, staying at one of these top 15 hotels guarantees both high comfort and a deep connection to Istanbul’s heritage and vibrant scene. Each hotel skillfully blends luxury with the city’s unique character, ensuring an enjoyable and unforgettable visit.
FAQs
What is the best area to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors?
Sultanahmet is ideal due to its proximity to major historical sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Beyoglu offers vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions, while Besiktas provides stunning Bosphorus views.
Are these hotels suitable for families?
Yes, many are family-friendly. They offer amenities like babysitting services, family rooms, and activities for children. Swissotel The Bosphorus, Shangri-La Bosphorus, and Park Bosphorus Hotel are particularly well-suited for families.
Are there hotels in Istanbul that combine modern luxury with historical charm?
Yes, several offer a mix of modern luxury and historical charm, such as Pera Palace Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, and Ciragan Palace Kempinski.
What is the best time of year to visit Istanbul?
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times. The weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.
How do I get around the city from these hotels?
Istanbul has a comprehensive public transportation network, including trams, buses, and ferries. Many hotels are centrally located, making it easy to explore on foot or by public transit. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available.
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