If you’re looking for the best hotels in Istanbul, you’ll find a great variety of places to stay, each offering a different way to experience the city.
From beautifully restored Ottoman mansions to stylish hotels with views of the Bosphorus, Istanbul has accommodation to suit different tastes and budgets.
Before booking, think about what you want to see and how you’ll get around. My guide to what to do in Istanbul can help you plan your days, while my guide to where to stay in Istanbul compares the best neighbourhoods for different types of trip and recommends the best hotels in each area for different budgets.
In this guide, I’ve brought together some of the Istanbul’s most luxurious hotels, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you find the right place for your trip.
Best Hotels in Istanbul
1. Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul
Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, one of the best areas to stay in Istanbul for sightseeing, this prestigious five-star hotel is just a short walk from some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
One of its most distinctive features is the building itself: a former three-storey neoclassical prison arranged around a beautiful landscaped courtyard.
Following an extensive renovation, its interiors combine traditional Turkish details with original works by local artisans, creating an elegant atmosphere without compromising on comfort. Guests can also enjoy a spa, saunas and a fully equipped gym.
The hotel has just 65 rooms, giving it a more intimate feel than many other luxury establishments in the city. Its Seasons restaurant serves
Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired dishes, while the terrace is a particularly lovely spot to enjoy afternoon tea with views of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Address: Tevkifhane Sok., No:1, Sultanahmet, Fatih, 34110
2. Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet
Opened in 2017, this five-star hotel brings the elegance of a traditional Turkish mansion to the heart of Sultanahmet. Its Ottoman-inspired interiors are full of character, with handmade carpets, intricately carved sofas and exquisite mother-of-pearl furniture.
The attention to detail is particularly striking throughout its 61 rooms and suites, as well as the communal areas. Hand-painted ceilings and decorative tiles give the property a distinctive character, while original works of art add to its refined atmosphere.
Despite its traditional appearance, Ajwa offers all the modern comforts you’d expect from a luxury hotel, including a spa, gym and indoor swimming pool.
Its location is another major advantage. Staying here means being within easy reach of the main attractions in Istanbul’s historic centre, making it an excellent choice for exploring the city on foot.
Address: Piyerloti Caddesi No: 30, Sultanahmet 34126
3. Raffles Istanbul
Although Raffles Istanbul is further away from the historic centre, it is undoubtedly one of the city’s most impressive luxury hotels. It is located in Beşiktaş, within the Zorlu Center, an upmarket shopping and leisure complex home to some of the world’s most prestigious brands.
Its position in the modern European side of Istanbul means you’ll be staying in a very different setting from Sultanahmet. However, excellent transport connections make it easy to reach the city’s main attractions and explore other neighbourhoods.
The hotel has 263 rooms and suites, many offering spectacular Bosphorus views. Its elegant interiors, high standards of service and exclusive atmosphere have also made it a popular choice among celebrities and distinguished visitors.
Facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a sauna, gym, traditional Turkish bath and massage services.
Food lovers will also appreciate its restaurant Arola, led by renowned Spanish chef Sergi Arola, known for his Michelin-starred cooking.
Address: Zorlu Center Besiktas, Besiktas, 34340 Istanbul
4. The St. Regis Istanbul
Situated in the fashionable Nişantaşi district, The St. Regis Istanbul is an excellent choice for those who prefer a more contemporary and exclusive side of the city.
The hotel is close to the Istanbul Congress Center and just over a kilometre from Dolmabahçe Palace. Taksim Square and the famous Istiklal Street are also within easy reach.
One of its main attractions is the rooftop terrace, where the Spago restaurant offers impressive views across Istanbul. The hotel also features an indoor swimming pool and the 950-square-metre Iridium Spa, a wonderful place to unwind after a day exploring the city.
Its 118 rooms and suites combine elegant furnishings with paintings and sculptures by contemporary Turkish artists. Modern technology and thoughtful touches add to the comfort, while the 24-hour butler service brings an extra level of personal attention.
Address: Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi No:35 Nisantasi, Sisli, 34367 Istanbul.
5. Shangri-La Bosphorus
If you’d love to wake up overlooking the Bosphorus, Shangri-La Bosphorus is one of the most appealing luxury hotels in Istanbul.
Housed in a historic building dating back to the 1930s, it occupies a privileged position right on the waterfront, close to Dolmabahçe Palace and next to the ferry terminal connecting Beşiktaş with Kadıköy.
This location is particularly convenient for exploring the city by boat, as several ferry routes depart from nearby.
The hotel has 186 spacious rooms and suites, decorated in a contemporary style and equipped with every modern convenience. Many rooms have private terraces overlooking the strait, offering a lovely setting to watch the boats passing between Europe and Asia.
Facilities include a heated indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, traditional Turkish bath and hot tubs. There are also four restaurants and bars, including Shang Palace, a well-known address in Istanbul for Chinese cuisine.
Address: Sinan Pasa Mah. Hayrettin Iskelesi Sok. No:1 Besiktas, Besiktas, 34353
6. Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
Another excellent option for enjoying a stay beside the Bosphorus is Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus. Located close to Beşiktaş Square and within walking distance of Dolmabahçe Palace, this property occupies a magnificent 19th-century Ottoman palace right on the waterfront.
The building has retained much of its original architectural character, while its interiors have been carefully adapted to create an elegant hotel with all the comforts of a modern luxury resort.
Among its facilities are a private pier, gym, sauna, spa and indoor swimming pool. However, the real highlight is undoubtedly the outdoor pool, which sits right beside the Bosphorus.
From here, you can relax while watching the ferries and boats glide along the strait that separates Europe and Asia. It’s a particularly memorable setting and one of the hotel’s most appealing features.
Address: Ciragan Cad. No:28, Besiktas, Besiktas, 34349
7. Seven Hills Palace
Back in Sultanahmet, Seven Hills Palace is a five-star hotel that puts you within easy walking distance of many of Istanbul’s most important historical landmarks.
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar are all nearby, making it a convenient base for exploring the old city.
The property is made up of three buildings, each with its own decorative style: Konak, Valide Sultan and Mihrimah Sultan. Despite their differences, they share an elegant Ottoman-inspired design that gives the hotel the feel of a traditional palace.
Guests can enjoy a well-equipped gym, spa and traditional Turkish hammam, as well as an outdoor swimming pool where they can relax after a busy day sightseeing.
The hotel’s Has Oda restaurant is another highlight, serving a varied selection of traditional Turkish dishes.
Address: Kadı çıkmazı sokak Sultanahmet Mahallesi, Fatih, 34122
8. Swissôtel The Bosphorus
The prestigious Swissôtel brand has an excellent address in Istanbul, just behind Dolmabahçe Palace, in the Beşiktaş district. The hotel is also close to Maçka Democracy Park, a vast green space covering almost 160,000 square metres, where you can escape the bustle of the city for a while.
Its interiors bring together Swiss design and traditional Turkish touches, in a distinctive combination created by internationally renowned designer Khuan Chew.
The property has 497 spacious rooms, all equipped with the comforts you’d expect from a five-star establishment, as well as up to six restaurants serving different types of cuisine.
One of its main attractions is Purovel Spa & Sport, an impressive 4,000-square-metre wellness centre. Alongside its gym and indoor swimming pools, it has 14 treatment rooms offering massages, facials and a wide range of relaxing treatments.
Address: Visnezade Mah Acısu Sok No:19 Maçka, Besiktas, 34357
9. Çirağan Palace Kempinski
If there’s one hotel in Istanbul that truly captures the grandeur of the Ottoman era, it’s Çirağan Palace Kempinski. Housed in an authentic 19th-century Ottoman palace, this five-star property is among the most exclusive places to stay in the Turkish capital.
It occupies a privileged position on the European shore of the Bosphorus, between Beşiktaş and Ortaköy, with views of the lush greenery of Yildiz Park. Its setting is particularly impressive, and the hotel is even accessible by road, boat or helicopter.
The 310 elegant rooms overlook either the Bosphorus or the beautifully landscaped gardens, filled with palm trees. Guests can also enjoy a spa, gym with personal trainers and an indoor swimming pool.
However, its most remarkable feature is the outdoor infinity pool, which is heated during the winter months. Swimming here, with the Bosphorus stretching out in front of you, is undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences the hotel has to offer.
Five restaurants complete the experience, with a variety of cuisines to choose from.
Address: Çırağan Caddesi 32, Besiktas, 34349
10. The Peninsula Istanbul
Set in the exclusive Karaköy district, right beside the Bosphorus and within the Galataport complex, The Peninsula Istanbul is a striking five-star hotel where contemporary design meets the city’s architectural heritage.
Its spacious rooms and suites are particularly appealing, with sophisticated interiors and beautiful views of the Bosphorus. The hotel also offers several dining options, including restaurants serving international, Turkish and Asian cuisine.
There’s plenty to enjoy beyond the rooms, too. Its extensive spa features a traditional Turkish hammam, saunas and treatment rooms, while indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a modern gym provide plenty of opportunities to unwind.
The location is another major advantage. From here, you can explore Karaköy’s lively streets, stroll along Galataport’s waterfront promenade or walk towards Galata Bridge and the historic peninsula.
Address: Kemankeş Caddesi No:34, 34425 Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey.
11. Pera Palace Hotel
Pera Palace is much more than just another luxury hotel in Istanbul. Housed in a magnificent 19th-century neoclassical building, it is one of the city’s most historic establishments and has welcomed some fascinating guests over the years, including Agatha Christie and Ernest Hemingway.
Its connection with Turkish history is equally interesting. Room 101 houses a small museum displaying personal belongings and memorabilia associated with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic.
Despite its long history, the hotel combines its period character with all the comforts of a modern establishment. Its interiors bring together neoclassical architecture, Art Nouveau details and Oriental influences, while its 115 rooms feature bespoke furniture, antiques and carefully selected works of art.
Guests can also enjoy a Mediterranean restaurant, gym, spa and traditional Turkish hammam. Its location in Beyoğlu makes it particularly convenient for exploring this lively part of Istanbul. Taksim Square is within walking distance, as is Galata Bridge, which connects the neighbourhood with the historic centre.
Address: Mesrutiyet cad. No:52, Beyoglu, 34430
12. Park Hyatt Istanbul – Maçka Palas
Located in Nişantaşi, one of Istanbul’s most fashionable neighbourhoods, Park Hyatt Istanbul is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to stay among designer boutiques, stylish restaurants and lively cafés. The area also has a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a good base for discovering the city’s more contemporary side.
The hotel occupies an elegant Art Deco building, whose original architectural features have been combined with modern design and welcoming interiors. It is just a five-minute walk from the city’s exhibition and convention centre, while Taksim Square and Dolmabahçe Palace are also within easy reach.
There are 90 rooms and suites, many with large windows offering views across the city and the Bosphorus. The hotel also has a 24-hour gym, swimming pool and The Lounge restaurant, which specialises in international cuisine.
Address: Tesvikiye, Bronz Sokak No: 4, Macka, Sisli, 34367
13. Hyatt Centric Levent
For those who prefer a modern setting away from the busiest tourist areas, Hyatt Centric Levent is an appealing five-star option. It is situated in Levent, one of Istanbul’s main business districts, known for its impressive skyscrapers and large shopping centres.
Kanyon, Metrocity and Özdilek are all nearby, making it particularly convenient for shopping. Another advantage is the metro station right outside the hotel, which provides easy access to other parts of the city.
The property has 79 rooms and suites, decorated with contemporary designer furniture specially selected for each space. They feature generous work areas and large windows, while some also have furnished terraces.
The Casia Spa is spread over three floors and includes an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam rooms and traditional Turkish hammam. There’s also a fully equipped gym for guests who want to keep up with their exercise routine during their stay.
Address: Buyukdere Caddesi No 136 Levent, Besiktas, 34330
14. Soho House Istanbul
Housed in the magnificent Palazzo Corpi, Soho House Istanbul is one of the most distinctive places to stay in the city.
This late 19th-century building is a real architectural gem, with an elaborate interior featuring Carrara marble, Piedmont rosewood and beautifully decorated walls and ceilings.
Its location in the European part of Istanbul is another strong point. It is just a short walk from Istiklal Street and Taksim Square, while Şişhane metro station is right next door, making it easy to get around.
Food is also an important part of the experience. The hotel is home to Cecconi’s, a well-known Italian restaurant originally from Venice, serving handmade pasta, seafood and traditional dishes from northern Italy.
For relaxation and exercise, guests have access to a large gym, with boxing facilities and classes, as well as the Cowshed Spa. The latter features relaxation areas, a traditional Turkish hammam and a selection of treatments.
Address: Mesrutiyet Cad. Evliya Celebi Mah. No:56 Beyoglu Istanbul, Beyoglu, 34430
15. The Grand Tarabya Hotel
To round off this selection, The Grand Tarabya offers a rather different experience from the hotels in Istanbul’s historic centre. Located along the waterfront promenade of Tarabya Bay, north of the city, it occupies a peaceful setting where the Bosphorus gradually opens towards the Black Sea.
One of Istanbul’s first five-star hotels, it has a long-standing reputation for hospitality. Its 168 rooms are modern and welcoming, with private balconies overlooking the bay, making the most of its waterfront position.
The hotel also has a gym, swimming pool and Therapia Spa, an impressive 4,500-square-metre wellness centre. Its facilities include a sauna, Turkish baths and massage services, providing plenty of opportunities to relax away from the city’s crowds.
Its location is particularly appealing if you’re looking for a quieter stay by the water, although bear in mind that getting to the main tourist attractions will take longer than from central neighbourhoods such as Sultanahmet or Karaköy.
Address: Haydar Aliyev Cad. No:154 Tarabya, Sariyer, 34457