The 25 best hotels in Istanbul

Istanbul’s first hotel to have hot water and electricity in its rooms was built in 1895 to accommodate the passengers of the famous Orient Express, which started its epic Paris-Istanbul round-trips at the end of the 19th century. The sumptuous iconic Belle Epoque building was designed by renowned French-Ottoman architect Alexander Vallaury and hosted an impressive list of guests including Ernest Hemingway, Agatha Christie and Alfred Hitchcock. Today, the hotel, nestled in the heart of the Beyoğlu district near Istiklal Street, retains its elegant classical style, offering a privileged location for aficionados of shopping, entertainment, and the arts.

TIME OUT TIP: Indulge in the hotel's renowned afternoon tea, a daily Bosphorus retreat held from 15:00 to 18:00 within the opulent ambience of Kubbeli Lounge. Transport yourself to a bygone era surrounded by oriental decor as you partake in a lavish buffet and bask in the soothing melodies of smooth jazz piano music.

Located in the heart of Istanbul, Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus emerges as an iconic retreat, marking the esteemed hotel group's inaugural venture beyond the Americas. Unveiled in 1955, it once claimed the title of Istanbul's tallest building. Evolving through multiple renovations, the hotel now boasts 500 rooms and suites, epitomizing modern luxury. The hotel's strategic location provides a panoramic backdrop of the enchanting Maçka Park and the Bosphorus. Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus caters to discerning travellers with an executive floor offering exclusive perks, 27 meeting rooms, and a state-of-the-art congress centre capable of hosting up to 3,000 people. This makes it the premier choice for any business gathering in Istanbul.

TIME OUT TIP: Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of the hotel's in-house restaurants serving a wide array of tastes from Turkish to Chinese and Indian cuisines.

This outstanding branch of the famous international chain will introduce you to the Ottoman-style indulgence by the Bosphorus. Nestled in a summer residence built for the Ottoman royal family, and two modern annexes, the hotel offers 170 hotel rooms and suites designed with the understated elegance that is the trademark of the Four Seasons group. The spa features an outstanding interior pool with marble columns and private Turkish hammam chambers that are among the best we have ever seen in Istanbul.

TIME OUT TIP: For a postcard-perfect scene, have a stroll to the coastal enclave of Ortaköy and capture the breathtaking beauty of Ortaköy Mosque against the backdrop of the Bosphorus in the early morning light.

With its 31 luxury suites and 310 sumptuous rooms nestled in a 17th-century Ottoman palace and an adjacent modern extension, this İstanbul classic combines a “1001 Nights” setting with spellbinding Bosphorus views. Its breathtaking waterfront pool surrounded by well-manicured gardens has made the hotel one of the most popular wedding venues of Istanbul residents for decades. The hotel’s luxury spa is an oasis of tranquillity in which a historic Turkish hammam, indulgent Asian massage therapies and beauty treatments are offered.

TIME OUT TIP: The in-house fine-dining restaurant Tuğra offers an exemplary menu comprising original recipes sourced from the historical archives of the Topkapı Palace Museum. A recent revitalization has also introduced two new culinary spots —Gazebo and Akdeniz by Esra Muslu— besides a thorough facelift to the lobby, rooms and suites.

Nestled amidst 17 acres of historic gardens, once an integral part of Dolmabahçe Palace, Swissôtel the Bosphorus offers travel enthusiasts an immersive retreat. Boasting 566 expansive guest rooms and suites, each adorned with breathtaking views of the Bosphorus or the lush gardens, the hotel crafts a narrative of luxury and serenity. For those seeking an extended sojourn, the Swissôtel Living section offers 63 residential units, ranging from contemporary studios to opulent lofts, available for long-term rentals. The hotel's commitment to holistic rejuvenation is embodied in the 4,000-sqm Pürovel Spa —an oasis of tranquillity featuring a fitness centre, both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as two elegant Turkish hammams with a modern twist.

TIME OUT TIP: Culinary enthusiasts are treated to Sabrosa, the hotel's main signature restaurant that offers a fusion of Nikkei and Turkish cuisines. In the winter season, the Swissôtel Chalet Restaurant, adorned in the authentic style of a mountain lodge, invites you on a culinary escapade to the enchanting world of the Alps. Meanwhile, 16 Roof consistently earns acclaim as one of "Istanbul's Best Rooftop Bars," offering a lofty perch for travellers to savour breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.

Infusing a touch of cosmopolitan charm into the vibrant tapestry of Istanbul's fashion hub, Nişantaşı, The St. Regis beckons style connoisseurs to an unforgettable sojourn in the heart of the metropolis. The Art Deco-inspired building, crafted by the acclaimed Turkish architect Emre Arolat, graces the coveted corner of Abdi İpekçi Street —revered as the 5th Avenue of Istanbul for its array of high-end boutiques. 118 sumptuous guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic vistas of Maçka Park, the Bosphorus, and the fashionable neighbourhood below.

TIME OUT TIP: Spago Restaurant emerges as the first non-American outpost of the renowned Austrian-American celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck. This culinary haven promises a glamorous dining affair on an airy rooftop terrace, accompanied by a mesmerizing panorama of Istanbul's skyline.

The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul occupies the upper floors of a high-rise building sitting on a hilltop overlooking the Dolmabahçe Palace and Vodaphone Park, the football stadium hosting the matches of the leading sports club Beşiktaş. 243 spacious rooms and suites, offering magnificent views of the Bosphorus, underwent a complete refurbishment in 2017 that introduced luscious marble bathrooms outfitted with Iznik ceramic tiles. Spa Soul spoils guests with a unique hammam suite for couples, while the concierge offers interesting custom-made city tours for families and those who would like to feel like a local for one day.

TIME OUT TIP: Taking centre stage in the culinary ensemble in the Ritz-Carlton is none other than Nobu, a gastronomic haven where the virtuosity of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa unfolds through a menu of signature Japanese-Peruvian dishes.

Raffles Istanbul occupies one of the three towers of Zorlu Center, a premium shopping centre renowned for its exquisite array of luxury brands in the heart of a bustling business district. Floor-to-ceiling windows in hotel rooms guarantee divine views of the city, while all guests are assigned a personal butler for ultimate comfort. For longer stays, Raffles Istanbul also offers residences to rent on a monthly or yearly basis on the top six floors of the same building. Zorlu Center itself emerges as an entertainment hub, featuring the renowned Zorlu PSM that hosts a diverse array of performances, from Broadway musicals to local talents. Culinary enthusiasts will find delight in Eataly, an epicurean attraction that brings the essence of Italian slow food to Istanbul.

TIME OUT TIP: The hotel offers a good choice of restaurants, including the Pan-Asian Isokyo and Rocca Restaurant, bringing in a Mediterranean breeze with its carefully curated menu. Barflies will also feel at home in the Long Bar, modelled on the original one at Raffles Singapore.

Located within a coveted 200-meter coastal stretch along the Bosphorus, the Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus emerges as the epitome of an urban oasis. With 100 luxury guest rooms and suites, many of which unveil breathtaking Bosphorus views, the hotel exudes a distinctive charm inspired by the yalıs —Ottoman waterfront mansions lining the Bosphorus. Adding a culinary attraction to its repertoire, Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus introduces the award-winning Novikov Restaurant from London to Istanbul for those who would like to indulge in a fusion of Italian and Asian cuisines.

TIME OUT TIP: For a refreshing start to the day, lace up your jogging shoes for a scenic run along the Bosphorus, followed by rejuvenating stretches in Kuruçeşme or Bebek parks. As night falls, consider immersing yourself in the cultural tapestry of Istanbul with a musical performance at the Zorlu Performance Arts Center.

Those who would like to explore Istanbul’s vibrant social scene will feel at home at W Hotel Istanbul. Located at the heart of the historic Akaretler Row Houses, a prime location in the midst of the bustling neighbourhood of Besiktas and the upscale shopping district of Nisantasi, this luxury hotel offers contemporary spaces for global nomads. Good to know that its 140 rooms and suites, as well as the spa and gym areas, have undergone a redesign. The revamped W Lounge, infused with Ottoman design elements, becomes the ultimate spot to socialize, blending signature cocktails with pulsating DJ beats. This adults-only and LGBTQ-friendly hotel welcomes your furry friends as well.

TIME OUT TIP: Ensure a tranquil stay by opting for one of the rooms adorned with private balconies or garden terraces, complete with cabanas.

Unveiling a legacy of Asian hospitality that began in the 1970s with its inaugural outpost in Singapore, this esteemed international hotel group arrived in Istanbul in 2013. Located on the European shores of the Bosphorus within a captivating 1930s building, the hotel graces the Beşiktaş district, a mere 15-minute stroll from the iconic Dolmabahçe Palace. Many of the 186 rooms and suites boast breathtaking Bosphorus views, blending Ottoman glamour with refined Asian design elements. Indulge your palate at the hotel's four restaurants and bars, including the Shang Palace, where guests are treated to an authentic Chinese-Cantonese culinary experience. Expect a menu of authentic tastes like Chinese dumplings, roasted whole Peking duck, and dry-braised hand-pulled noodles among others ―all paired with Turkish wines.

TIME OUT TIP: Explore the maritime history of the Ottomans at the Naval Museum right next door. The best part of the collection is a hall full of imperial caiques, long narrow rowboats used by the royal family for daily excursions and ceremonies along the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

Nestled within the meticulously renovated "Maksim" theatre and music hall, a cultural heritage dating back to the 1920s, Sofitel seamlessly intertwines French art-de-vivre with Turkish warmth at the heart of Istanbul's bustling arts and entertainment district —Taksim. The hotel's strategic location places it at the gateway of the iconic İstiklal Street, a vibrant 2-kilometer-long pedestrian thoroughfare that unfolds a European-style tapestry of facades, passages, and cultural landmarks. Sofitel's 202 contemporary rooms, some offering captivating views of the Bosphorus and the Old City, serve as a luxurious retreat in the midst of this dynamic cultural hub.

TIME OUT TIP: The Old City and its historic monuments lie just a brief 10-minute drive away, or guests can opt for a one-minute stroll to the Taksim Square metro station for a swift journey to the heart of the Old City. Make sure not to book a show at the Ataturk Cultural Center as well. Serving as the city's primary opera and concert hall, this distinguished venue plays host to an extensive array of performing arts.

Spanning four magnificent buildings along the historic waterfront of Karaköy, the recently unveiled Peninsula Istanbul emerges as a seamless extension of Galataport ―an ambitious revitalization project that has turned the city's cruise port into a dynamic arts and shopping district. The hotel is no less ambitious though, bringing together a team of creative minds for its grand inauguration. Renowned designer Zeynep Fadıllıoğlu lends her artistic touch to the overall design attitude, creating a harmonious blend within the 177 rooms and suites, as well as the dazzling spa hammam. The culinary journey at the in-house restaurant Gallada is curated by the Michelin-starred local chef Fatih Tutak, who brings a special Turkish-Asian menu inspired by his travels along the Silk Road.

TIME OUT TIP: Enhance your cultural exploration by visiting the nearby Istanbul Modern, signed by the illustrious Renzo Piano. Conclude your day with an indulgent afternoon tea in The Lobby, a space transformed from a Bauhaus-style passenger's hall originally built for Istanbul's first cruise port in 1937.

Constructed in 1922 by the visionary Italian architect Giulio Mongeri, this striking building draws inspiration from Milan's iconic palazzos. Throughout the majority of the 20th century, it served as a haven for artists and intellectuals. Undergoing a meticulous renovation, it has later been transformed into a luxurious hotel, featuring 90 rooms for those seeking an immersive experience in the vibrant local life of Nisantasi, Istanbul's fashion district. Recently acquired by Nusret Gökce, also known as "Salt Bae," the hotel now hosts an outpost of his renowned steakhouse, Nusret, situated on the second floor. Each room offers panoramic views of Maçka Park and the Bosphorus, creating a picturesque backdrop to your stay. For an elevated experience, five exclusive suites, complete with mini spas, provide the indulgence of an en-suite Turkish bath.

TIME OUT TIP: Venture to Cipriani Istanbul inside the Park Hyatt – Macka Palas, where the enduring Venetian family tradition thrives, presenting simple yet artisanal Italian flavours.

Positioned as a venerable establishment in the city's bustling epicentre, Taksim Square, the Grand Hyatt Istanbul has been a steadfast choice for both business travellers and families since the mid-90s. The hotel's 360 rooms and suites offer diverse views, including the cityscape, lush gardens, and the Bosphorus, complemented by comfortable décor and sumptuous bedding for a restful retreat. Indulge in relaxation at the four-room spa, featuring a Turkish bath, and a small state-of-the-art fitness centre for those seeking wellness on the go. The garden pool, a sought-after venue for weddings, invites you to discover your own sanctuary amid the urban hustle.

TIME OUT TIP: Do not miss the jazz brunches at Mezzanine Restaurant, and dinner at Grasidi Gastro Garden, a contemporary Greek tavern that transports you to the Aegean coast with its exquisite mezes.

Since its establishment in 1956 as one of the city's pioneering 5-star hotels near Taksim Square, Divan Istanbul has stood as a formidable competitor to Hilton Istanbul, capturing the attention not only of tourists but also of discerning city dwellers who seek its well-acclaimed restaurants. Undergoing a complete restyling in 2010, the hotel's 191 rooms and suites now offer a harmonious fusion of authentic Turkish kilims and textiles with contemporary design elements, featuring inviting sitting areas adorned with armchairs and wooden desks.

TIME OUT TIP: The in-house culinary delights of the hotel include Divan Patisserie, celebrated for its Turkish delights and exquisite chocolates. For an exploration of reinterpreted Japanese tastes, Maromi beckons with a tantalizing array of sushis and tempura dishes.

As a city icon gracing Taksim Square since the 1970s, this establishment stands as one of the initial high-rises defining the Bosphorus skyline. Over the years, the hotel has successfully updated itself, maintaining its prominent position in the ever-changing cityscape. Selecting a room or suite with enchanting Bosphorus views ensures you'll revel in the sensation of having a front-row seat to the daily spectacle of the city. On the 20th floor, Okra Restaurant offers contemporary Mediterranean food cooked on an open wood fire, while Panorama Lounge at the top of the hotel offers unparalleled views for memorable sundowners.

TIME OUT TIP: Indulge in the experience of one of the city's premier hotel gyms, boasting panoramic views of Taksim Square throughout your stay.

Positioned as the second outpost of The Marmara group's collection around Taksim Square, The Marmara Pera exudes a distinctive, off-the-beaten vibe. Set against the backdrop of the Old City, the hotel captures breathtaking sunsets over the Golden Horn. Boasting 205 rooms and suites adorned with a modern and youthful design, The Marmara Pera offers a refreshing escape at relatively reasonable prices, ensuring exceptional value for its guests. The hotel rooftop disguises Mikla, the temple of the New Anatolian Cuisine helmed by local chef Mehmet Gürs, continuously honoured by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

TIME OUT TIP: For culinary enthusiasts, a stroll along Asmalımescit Street, one of the city's liveliest spots, unveils a tapestry of local meyhanes, each offering an exquisite array of Turkish mezes to be savoured alongside rakı, the quintessential local anise liqueur.

CVK Bosphorus stands out as a local hotel chain, securing a coveted location overlooking the Bosphorus from the hills of Gumussuyu, once an elite residential area highlighted by elegant townhouses that line the main street leading to Taksim Square. Offering panoramic city views from many of its suites and rooms, this modern hotel stands proudly on the historic grounds of the "Park Hotel," a former Italian mansion and one of the city's most esteemed tourist establishments.

TIME OUT TIP: Izaka Terrace offers an eclectic menu of Istanbul mezes and regional Turkish flavours like kebaps and pides, accompanied by a rich array of international favourites prepared with premium ingredients like caviar, oysters, truffles and whole duck.

Located at the heart of Karakoy, the burgeoning neighbourhood that captivates art lovers and culinary enthusiasts with its remarkable transformation, JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus stands as a beacon of luxury. Housed within the meticulously converted 180-year-old Veli Alemdar Han, the hotel retains its original grandeur, featuring an exquisite 35-meter atrium that sets the stage for 130 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites. Offering matchless views of the Old City and the Bosphorus from its rooms and restaurants, JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus provides a resort-like ambience amidst the bustling commercial hub. Its Michelin-recommended seafood restaurant, OCTO, introduces a fresh approach to fine dining, while the Sky Bar emerges as a popular spot for sundowners against the backdrop of the city's iconic skyline, adorned with soaring domes and minarets.

TIME OUT TIP: A short distance away, Galataport, the city's new coastal urban renovation project, unfolds with an underground cruise terminal, numerous shopping outlets, and diverse dining options. Sharing the same ground with Galataport, Istanbul Modern awaits culture buffs as a temple dedicated to contemporary art as well.

Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is an oasis of tranquillity amidst Mecidiyekoy, Istanbul's noisy commercial epicentre. Occupying one of two commanding steel and glass high-rises, conceived as an ambitious residence and office project, the hotel offers 209 pet-friendly guest rooms and suites, creating a serene retreat within the bustling cityscape. For an elevated experience, guests booking a Fairmont Gold room gain exclusive access to the Fairmont Gold Lounge, along with the services of a personal butler. Indulge in a sensory journey within the 2,000-square-meter Fairmont Spa, where signature treatments draw inspiration from local traditions, plants, herbs, and the timeless Turkish bath culture.

TIME OUT TIP: The hotel’s Michelin Guide-recommended fine dining restaurant Alia showcases a full spectrum of vibrant spices from the Spice Bazaar, where guests can also acquire these aromatic treasures. A meze bar and a central "ocakbaşı," a traditional Turkish grill, create an immersive experience for discerning palates.

Soaring 34 stories above Istanbul's burgeoning residential enclave of Bomonti, this high-rise stands as a prominent feature in the city's skyline. Offering 829 rooms and suites, it provides panoramic vistas of the city's dense landscape, presenting glimpses of the Bosphorus from unexpected angles. As the largest hotel in Istanbul and the largest Hilton in Europe, the establishment boasts 32 meeting rooms and 2 ballrooms spanning an awe-inspiring 12,000 square meters. Cloud 34, the hotel's bar above the clouds, beckons with a delightful Asian menu focusing on sushi, complemented by a rich selection of cocktails and spirits.

TIME OUT TIP: Adjacent to the hotel, Bomontiada emerges as an extraordinary entertainment hub, worthy of exploration. Highlights include the Babylon music club and a cluster of eateries surrounding a historic beer factory.

When Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus opened in 1992, it atracted attention with its distinctive S-shaped design on the European shores of the Bosphorus. Perched atop a hill adjacent to Yıldız Park in the vibrant Besiktas neighbourhood —renowned for its football club, stadium, and lively streets surrounding a bustling fish market— the hotel offers a unique setting. Its 553 rooms and suites underwent a facelift in 2016, providing contemporary comforts alongside panoramic vistas through expansive windows. Guests can savor these breathtaking views also from the 14th-floor Summit Bar and Terrace, and the Manzara Restaurant, which presents a rich fusion of Mediterranean and Ottoman cuisines.

TIME OUT TIP: While in Besiktas, explore the historical Dolmabahce Palace, the final residence of the Ottoman dynasty, and learn about the city’s maritime heritage at the Naval Museum, showcasing a splendid collection of royal caiques, or rowing boats.

Mövenpick Hotel Istanbul Bosphorus stands amid towering structures housing the headquarters of Turkey's largest banks and some of the city's most luxurious shopping malls. This prime location also provides a convenient gateway to the picturesque coastal neighbourhoods along the Bosphorus such as Emirgan, Bebek, Arnavutkoy, and Kurucesme, just a swift taxi ride away. Mövenpick Hotel's culinary offerings shine as well, enticing guests with delectable chocolates, ice creams, and an Italian restaurant on the top floor that boasts perhaps the most Instagrammable views of the Bosphorus Bridge.

TIME OUT TIP: For those eager to explore premium shopping destinations, Zorlu Center, Kanyon Shopping Mall, and Istinye Park beckon with a diverse array of eateries and a wide selection of local and international fashion and design brands ―all easily accessible by the city’s first metro line.

As the third 5-star hotel to grace Istanbul's skyline, following in the footsteps of Hilton and Divan, this establishment has not only become a luxurious retreat but also a favoured filming location for Yesilcam Movies —the Bollywood of Turkey— during the 60s and 70s. Despite its sleek modern design, which stands in stark contrast to the natural beauty of the Bosphorus, the hotel offers a comfortable oasis by the water. This has made it a sought-after destination for weddings and weekend getaways. The 4,500-square-meter Therapia Spa boasts therapy rooms that allow guests to enjoy breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

TIME OUT TIP: To truly experience the local lifestyle, embark on a commuter's boat that connects charming little neighbourhoods along the Bosphorus coast. Don't miss a visit to the Sabanci Museum, housed in an elegant villa in Emirgan, hosting significant contemporary art exhibitions and showcasing the private collection of one of Turkey's leading industrialist families.