29 Best Hotels in Istanbul, Turkey

Background Illustration for Hotels

With the number of visitors to Turkey increasing every year, Istanbul's hoteliers are busy keeping up with the growing demand. New lodgings, from five-star hotels to smaller boutique inns, are opening all the time, while older establishments are busy renovating and expanding. This means there are plenty more options than there were in the past, but because Istanbul is such a popular destination, it's not the travel bargain it used to be. Hotels in Istanbul tend to quote their rates in U.S. dollars or euros, depending on which currency has a more advantageous exchange rate. Most lodgings, save four- and five-star hotels, include a full Turkish breakfast with the room rate.

The majority of visitors to Istanbul stay in the Sultanahmet area, where they are conveniently in walking distance to most of the city’s major sights, including Aya Sofya, the Blue Mosque, Topkap? Palace, and the bazaars. Sultanahmet has a good selection of hotels, smaller family-run guesthouses, and some charmingly stylish inns, many of which are decorated in typical Turkish style, with traditional touches like kilim carpets or old-fashioned furnishings. The rooms here generally tend to be on the small side, and bathrooms often only have showers, but what's lacking in space tends to be more than made up for in character and atmosphere. The downside of staying in Sultanahmet is that at the height of the season, the area is overrun not only with tourists but touts who will approach you at every turn. On the upside, stiff competition in the area means that Sultanahmet usually has the best deals in town; some hotels even offer a 5% to 10% discount for payment in cash, or a complimentary airport transfer if you stay three or more nights.

For a wider range of hotel options in somewhat less tourist-oriented neighborhoods, head across the Golden Horn. The Beyo?lu district, only a 15- or 20-minute tram ride or cab ride from the sights of Sultanahmet, has emerged as an attractive alternative to the Old City. Entrepreneurs have caught on to the tourism potential of the historic area and are restoring elegant, century-old buildings and giving them new life as hotels. Staying near Taksim Square or in one of Beyo?lu’s trendy sub-neighborhoods—such as ?i?hane/Tünel, Cihangir, Galata, or Karaköy—puts you closer to Istanbul's best restaurants and nightlife spots and also gives you a chance to stroll through the area’s lively backstreets.

For the most luxurious, indulgent accommodations, stay in one of the large, modern, high-end hotels that are mostly clustered in the upscale neighborhood of Ni?anta?? and along the coveted strip of the Bosphorus between Be?ikta? and Ortaköy. You’ll pay considerably more to stay in these digs but the perks can include incredible waterfront views, swimming pools and top-notch fitness facilities, and sophisticated dining options. Wherever you stay, you may notice that hoteliers are starting to embrace traditional Turkish styles and motifs; one new trend is to design hotel bathrooms like hammams. Though the setup may be less familiar than a traditional shower or bath, these bathrooms can be quite luxurious, with marble-lined tubs and heated floors.

Anemon Galata

$$$ | Büyükhendek Cad. 5, Istanbul, Turkey

An attractively renovated, century-old building so close to the 14th-century Galata Tower that you can almost reach out and touch it, the Anemon Galata provides plenty of old-world charm. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, if a bit musty and showing some wear. Breakfast is served in an upstairs restaurant with wonderful views of the tower and the Golden Horn, while the underground Sensus Wine Bar carries hundreds of local vintages, along with cheese plates and other light fare. Ask for a room in the back to get a view of the Old City and avoid noise.

Pros

  • Historic neighborhood
  • Professional service
  • Rooftop restaurant

Cons

  • Rooms facing the square can be noisy at night
  • Some rooms small
  • Reached on steep, winding streets
Büyükhendek Cad. 5, Istanbul, Turkey
212-293–2343
hotel Details
25 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Ansen Suites

$$ | Meşrutiyet Cad. 70, Istanbul, 34430, Turkey

The roomy, open-plan "suites" in this stylish, hip, early-20th-century building are arranged with separate sleeping and living areas and decorated in a smart, minimalist style, with slightly retro touches; a few on the upper floors have excellent views of the Golden Horn. The entrance level houses a popular Turkish restaurant, Mila by Roka Pera (closed in summer, when the chef sets up shop in Alaçatı), as well as a cozy bar in the back.

Pros

  • Large, attractive accommodations
  • Just steps from nightlife and entertainment
  • Some rooms have Golden Horn views

Cons

  • Though units are set up as apartments, they don't have kitchenettes
  • Service, and staff's English, could be improved
  • Area can be noisy at night
Meşrutiyet Cad. 70, Istanbul, 34430, Turkey
212-245–8808
hotel Details
11 suites
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Armada Istanbul Old City Hotel

$$ | Ahırkapı Sok. 24, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey

These comfortable accommodations are a 10-minute walk from Istanbul's main sights, and most rooms look out either to the sea or over the Old City—although one of the best views is at night from the hotel's rooftop Armada Terrace restaurant, where you can see Aya Sofya and the Blue Mosque.

Pros

  • Amazing views of the water
  • Professional service
  • In quiet area

Cons

  • Somewhat steep uphill walk from hotel to the sights of Sultanahmet
  • Smallish rooms, and those on ground floor can be dark
  • No fitness facilities
Ahırkapı Sok. 24, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey
212-455–4455
hotel Details
120 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Celal Sultan Hotel

$ | Salkımsöğüt Sok. 16, Istanbul, 34410, Turkey

Three conjoined, restored town houses make up this comfortable, well-maintained hotel, which has new furnishings designed to look old-fashioned and an inviting lobby with a cozy bar decorated with colorful Turkish rugs and kilims. The compact standard rooms feature white furniture, attractive textiles in pastel or earth tones, and decorative flourishes; higher room categories also offer separate sitting areas and some have good views. A rooftop terrace, with sofas, glass tables with wrought-iron chairs, and potted plants, is a relaxing place to hang out, while the upper-level restaurant provides a fine view of the Aya Sofya.

Pros

  • On a quiet street
  • Personable staff
  • Rooftop terrace

Cons

  • Standard rooms and bathrooms are small
  • Some guests report poor sound insulation in rooms
  • Rather high rates
Salkımsöğüt Sok. 16, Istanbul, 34410, Turkey
212-520–9323
hotel Details
31 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $

Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

$$$$ | Çırağan Cad. 32, Istanbul, 34349, Turkey Fodor's Choice
Çiragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, Bosphorus
Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Once a residence for the Ottoman sultans, the late-19th-century Çırağan Palace (pronounced chi-rahn) is Istanbul's most luxurious hotel, with ornate public spaces that feel absolutely decadent and a breathtaking setting right on the Bosphorus—the outdoor infinity pool seems to hover on the water's edge and most rooms, full of Ottoman-inspired wood furnishings and textiles in warm colors, have balconies overlooking the Bosphorus as well. Large bathrooms feature marble tubs. At Tuğra Restaurant, you can dine in imperial splendor on Turkish and Ottoman specialties. Most lodgings are in the new wing, though there are 11 VIP suites in the palace itself, including the €30,000 per night Sultan's Suite—start saving now.

Pros

  • Grand setting in incredible Bosphorus-front location
  • Over-the-top feeling of luxury
  • Infinity pool

Cons

  • Exorbitant price of food and drinks
  • High rates, especially for rooms that have no Bosphorus view
  • Service can be slow
Çırağan Cad. 32, Istanbul, 34349, Turkey
212-326–4646
hotel Details
313 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Darussaade Hotel Istanbul

$ | Akbıyık Cad. 90, Istanbul, Turkey

Two adjoining 19th-century houses offer old-world charm and comfortable rooms close to Sultanahmet's main sights. It's decorated in Ottoman-Victorian period style, with cozy furnishings that include brass beds and lamps, floral wallpaper and textiles, wooden floors with plush area carpets, and old-fashioned-style telephones. Most rooms face the neighborhood, though a few on the upper floors have views of the Sea of Marmara or the top of the Blue Mosque. Breakfast is served in summer on a rooftop terrace, which has the same view and is also the site of a Turkish restaurant offering à la carte lunch and dinner selections. Service is both friendly and efficient.

Pros

  • Comfortable, nicely furnished accommodations
  • Very helpful staff
  • Rooms receive lots of natural light

Cons

  • Some small rooms
  • Most rooms don't have views
  • Old building
Akbıyık Cad. 90, Istanbul, Turkey
212-518–3636
hotel Details
23 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $

Divan Istanbul

$$$$ | Asker Ocağı Cad. 1, Istanbul, 34367, Turkey

An Istanbul institution established in 1956 offers grand luxury that brings together authentic Turkish style and contemporary design elements, from the traditional Anatolian kilims and textiles in the rooms to the spectacular flowerlike chandeliers by American glass artist Robert DuGrenier in the lobby. Good-size rooms feel warm and inviting, with cozy sitting areas that have sofas and leather-topped desks. Hotel facilities, like several well-regarded restaurants and the legendary Divan Patisserie (guests can indulge in free in-room chocolate samples), are outstanding.

Pros

  • First-class service
  • Beautiful half-Olympic-size indoor pool
  • Excellent breakfast (though not included in all room rates)

Cons

  • Fairly uninteresting city views from most rooms
  • Expensive food and beverages
  • Surrounding area can be noisy
Asker Ocağı Cad. 1, Istanbul, 34367, Turkey
212-315–5500
hotel Details
189 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

$$$$ | Tevkifhane Sok. 1, Istanbul, 34110, Turkey Fodor's Choice
Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmet, Sultanahmet
Dana Neibert/Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts

What a rehabilitation success story: a former prison just steps from Topkapı Palace and Aya Sofya was transformed into one of Istanbul's premier accommodations—a place where there have been additional renovations more recently and where the luxuriously outfitted rooms and suites overlook the Sea of Marmara, the Old City, or a manicured interior courtyard. The rooftop terrace, A'ya Lounge, offers spectacular views of the Aya Sofya and other monuments and is the perfect place to have a drink and watch the sun set. The glass-enclosed Seasons Restaurant in the central courtyard is one of the area's few fine dining venues. The spa and gym area is small, but guests are free to use the much more extensive facilities at the hotel's sister property on the Bosphorus.

Pros

  • Historic building surrounded by major tourist attractions
  • Luxurious accommodations
  • Exceptional service

Cons

  • Limited fitness facilities
  • No view from rooms on lower floors
  • Expensive rates and food
Tevkifhane Sok. 1, Istanbul, 34110, Turkey
212-402–3000
hotel Details
55 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus

$$$$ | Çırağan Cad. 28, Istanbul, 34349, Turkey

This restored, 19th-century Ottoman palace with two modern wings exudes luxury in rooms and suites, a quarter of which have Bosphorus views (others have garden and city views), that are elegant yet understated, with soaring ceilings, muted tones, and Ottoman touches such as handcrafted mirrors. The marble-lined bathrooms, with deep tubs and separate showers, feel downright palatial. The stunning spa has saunas, steam rooms, Turkish baths, and one of Istanbul's loveliest indoor pools; the outdoor pool is just steps from the water's edge.

Pros

  • Impeccable service
  • Beautiful views and location
  • Top-notch spa and fitness facilities

Cons

  • Expensive food and drinks
  • Underwhelming views from non-Bosphorus rooms, especially considering high rates
  • Can be noisy
Çırağan Cad. 28, Istanbul, 34349, Turkey
212-381–4000
hotel Details
170 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Georges Hotel Galata

$$$$ | Serdar-ı Ekrem Sok. 24, Istanbul, Turkey

Housed in a restored, late-19th-century apartment building on a street lined with fashion designers' boutiques, the classy Georges and its minimalist yet old-fashioned rooms exude chic—think high ceilings and plain white walls with elaborate moldings, teakwood furniture, and brass lamps. Bathrooms are sleek and modern, lined with black marble and featuring walk-in rain showers. Some rooms have balconies and a few have fabulous views of the Bosphorus; the rest overlook a cobblestoned street or back patio. The rooftop terrace houses a restaurant and bar that draws a sceney clientele of nonguests.

Pros

  • Situated in a trendy yet historic neighborhood
  • Attentive, personalized service
  • Romantic setting away from the tourist fray

Cons

  • Can be hard to find
  • Unexciting views from some lower-category rooms
  • No on-site fitness facilities
Serdar-ı Ekrem Sok. 24, Istanbul, Turkey
212-244–2423
hotel Details
20 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Gezi Hotel Bosphorus

$$$$ | Mete Cad. 34, Istanbul, 34437, Turkey

Contemporary, minimalist decor infuses more personality than you find in most business-caliber hotels, and rooms in this 11-story building have views of the Bosphorus, the park, or the city. A particularly nice feature in the bathrooms is the full-length window in the shower—perfect for gazing out at the boats or the urban surroundings while you lather up under the rain shower. For further pampering, there's a basement-level wellness center with a gym, small spa, hammam, and sauna.

Pros

  • Central location just across from Taksim's Gezi Parkı
  • Classy atmosphere
  • Helpful staff

Cons

  • Most rooms and bathrooms are small
  • Lower-floor rooms don't have much of a view
  • Breakfast could be better
Mete Cad. 34, Istanbul, 34437, Turkey
212-393–2700
hotel Details
67 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Hotel Amira Istanbul

$$ | Mustafa Paşa Sok. 43, Istanbul, Turkey Fodor's Choice

An attractive atrium between two wings houses the lobby, and well-appointed rooms are furnished in an eclectic mix of Turkish and contemporary styles, from ornate Ottoman ceiling patterns and metal lampshades evoking the Istanbul skyline to modern rugs and plush upholstery. Somewhat glitzy bathrooms offer rain showers and/or whirlpool tubs. Deluxe rooms are large, and some have balconies with sea views. Guests can make use of a fitness center, and upon arrival they are escorted to the delightful roof terrace for a welcome drink and brief city orientation.

Pros

  • Extraordinarily helpful staff
  • Good value
  • Guests feel pampered

Cons

  • Some rooms not accessible by elevator
  • On a somewhat noisy corner
  • Basement-level rooms can be dark
Mustafa Paşa Sok. 43, Istanbul, Turkey
212-516–1640
hotel Details
34 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Hotel Empress Zoë

$$ | Akbıyık Cad. 10, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey
Hotel Empress Zoe

At what is now a Sultanahmet institution, rooms and suites are varied and charming—standard rooms, with colorfully canopied four-posters, nomad textiles, and dark woods, have an almost rustic feel, while suites are more fully furnished, and some have marble-lined bathrooms done up to look like mini hammams. The hotel's lush garden is an extremely tranquil spot to eat breakfast, and there's also an intimate, two-level roof terrace with nice views, as well as a small bar area inside.

Pros

  • Quirky, bohemian atmosphere
  • Just steps from major sights
  • Lovely garden oasis

Cons

  • No elevator
  • Narrow spiral staircase and labyrinthine layout require a fair bit of climbing
  • Some rooms and bathrooms are small and basic
Akbıyık Cad. 10, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey
212-518–2504
hotel Details
23 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Hotel İbrahim Pasha

$$ | Terzihane Sok. 7, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey Fodor's Choice

What was once the home of an extended Armenian family offers comfortable, stylishly decorated rooms with vintage-looking wood and leather furniture, colorfully patterned Turkish carpets and textiles, and contemporary Middle Eastern touches. Standard rooms are quite small, yet cozy, while deluxe rooms are larger and have separate sitting areas with a sofa or divan; a handful have balconies, though views are limited. A rooftop terrace offers a glorious panorama of Aya Sofya, the Blue Mosque, and the Sea of Marmara beyond.

Pros

  • Just off Hippodrome
  • Personable staff
  • Inviting public areas and roof terrace

Cons

  • Standard rooms can be cramped
  • Most rooms don't have a view
  • Not all rooms are wheelchair-accessible
Terzihane Sok. 7, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey
212-518–0394
hotel Details
24 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Hotel Niles Istanbul

$$ | Dibekli Cami Sok. 13, Istanbul, Turkey
Duplex Suite

The elaborate lobby—with its carved wooden columns and ceilings, plush antique furniture, chandeliers, and marble floors with Oriental rugs—could well be a film set, while the standard rooms are done in a sleeker, more contemporary style that retains some vintage design accents. The suites carry on the "retro Ottoman" style of the lobby, with vintage-style lamps and decorative moldings stenciled onto the walls. The large junior suites have hammam-style bathrooms, divan sofas, and pastel-painted wooden wardrobes with traditional latticework; two bi-level suites are well suited for families. The plant-filled roof terrace, open year-round, has a lovely view of the Sea of Marmara, and service is on par with that at sister establishment Dersaadet.

Pros

  • Great value
  • Close to Grand Bazaar and tram stop
  • Small on-site gym

Cons

  • A little ways from other main sights
  • Small bathrooms in standard rooms
  • A bit hard to locate amid somewhat unsightly nearby streets
Dibekli Cami Sok. 13, Istanbul, Turkey
212-517–3239
hotel Details
39 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Hotel Tashkonak Istanbul

$ | Küçük Ayasofya Cad., Tomurcuk Sok. 5, Istanbul, 34400, Turkey

Occupying two adjacent, Ottoman-style wooden houses on a quiet side street, Hotel Tashkonak has appealing rooms, friendly service, and a spacious, leafy garden patio that is a calming oasis in busy Sultanahmet. Cozy rooms have old-fashioned touches like chandeliers, boudoirs with mirrors, ornamental designs painted on the ceilings, and framed Ottoman prints and watercolor paintings; three family rooms comfortably sleep four to five people each. The roof terrace has a sweeping view of the Sea of Marmara, and complimentary tea is offered every afternoon in the garden.

Pros

  • On a quiet street
  • Lovely secluded garden is a gem
  • Good value

Cons

  • Rather small rooms
  • No elevator and lots of stairs
  • Walls are thin
Küçük Ayasofya Cad., Tomurcuk Sok. 5, Istanbul, 34400, Turkey
212-518–2882
hotel Details
32 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $

Park Hyatt Istanbul–Maçka Palas

$$$$ | Bronz Sok. 4, Istanbul, 34367, Turkey

A restored, Italian-style, art deco, 1922 apartment building offers spacious, elegant rooms decked out in sleek walnut with modern amenities alongside old-fashioned touches like period chandeliers and black-and-white photographs of Istanbul. Bathrooms have rain showers, free-standing tubs, and heated stone floors, and 25 "spa rooms" also have steam rooms and Turkish baths. The sophisticated lobby has a chic bar with a wine cellar showcasing a wide range of Turkish and international wines.

Pros

  • Large rooms
  • In an upscale shopping and nightlife area
  • Friendly, efficient staff

Cons

  • Most rooms have no view
  • Spa rooms somewhat overwhelmed by their bathrooms
  • No restaurant
Bronz Sok. 4, Istanbul, 34367, Turkey
212-315–1234
hotel Details
90 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Pera Palace Hotel

$$$$ | Meşrutiyet Cad. 52, Istanbul, 34430, Turkey Fodor's Choice
PPHJ - Lobby

Extensive restoration has brought this Istanbul landmark—founded in 1892 to provide upscale accommodations for travelers arriving on the Orient Express—back to its former glory, with beautifully outfitted rooms and plenty of period decorations and antique furniture. Bathrooms are done in Carrera marble, and some feature deep, old-fashioned claw-foot tubs; there's also a small underground spa, sauna, and indoor pool. Some rooms and suites are inspired by prestigious former guests, including Agatha Christie, Greta Garbo, and Ernest Hemingway, while the "deluxe Golden Horn" rooms, many with tiny private balconies, are some of the coziest.

Pros

  • Historic venue
  • Luxurious facilities
  • Attentive staff

Cons

  • Some rooms have small bathrooms
  • Rooms on back side look onto street with lots of traffic
  • Expensive food and drinks
Meşrutiyet Cad. 52, Istanbul, 34430, Turkey
212-377–4000
hotel Details
115 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Sarı Konak Hotel

$$ | Mimar Mehmet Ağa Cad. 26, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey

These bright, well-maintained accommodations in a converted Ottoman mansion have mainly modern furniture, though the decor also includes Turkish and period accents like brass lamps, antique mirrors, and Ottoman-era etchings; some rooms have original tiled floors. Breakfast is served in winter in a rustic room that opens onto a tiny courtyard and in summer on the rooftop terrace, where in the evening you can also sip a glass of rakı and contemplate the Sea of Marmara or the nearby Blue Mosque. If you don't want twin beds, or prefer a bathtub to a shower, request these when making reservations.

Pros

  • Cozy, intimate feel
  • Good value
  • Rooftop terrace with a view

Cons

  • Standard rooms a bit small
  • No views from rooms
  • No elevator
Mimar Mehmet Ağa Cad. 26, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey
212-638–6258
hotel Details
23 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul

$$$$ | Hayrettin İskelesi Sok. 1, Istanbul, 34353, Turkey

Offering all the opulence and sophistication expected of this world-class brand, the Shangri-La Bosphorus overlooks the water, with a glittering lobby that features a two-story crystal chandelier, richly colored marble flooring, and gold-rimmed furniture. The well-appointed rooms are more understated, with muted colors, simple Chinese brushwork art, and furniture in black lacquer and off-white marble; bathrooms are wonderfully luxurious. Higher-category rooms have views of the water, while others face the city or a Parisian-looking interior atrium. Other highlights are the attractive indoor pool; the brand's signature CHI, The Spa; the Cantonese-style Shang Palace restaurant; and a lobby lounge offering tea service.

Pros

  • Plush, spacious rooms
  • Extraordinarily attentive service
  • Next to ferry dock

Cons

  • Overlooks Bosphorus but no open-air spaces or waterfront access for guests
  • Location next to prime minister's offices can mean heavy security presence
  • Box-style hotel architecture feels rather insular
Hayrettin İskelesi Sok. 1, Istanbul, 34353, Turkey
212-275–8888
hotel Details
186 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Sirkeci Mansion

$$ | Taya Hatun Sok. 5, Istanbul, Turkey

The comfortable and inviting room decor emphasizes local character, while the bustling, ornate lobby and warm, helpful staff convey feelings of refined luxury. Smallish standard rooms have wooden furnishings, hanging Ottoman-style brass lamps, traditional artwork, and kilims, while the similarly decorated higher-category rooms are larger, and some have balconies overlooking Gülhane Parkı. An indoor plunge pool, Turkish bath, sauna, and small fitness room are on the premises, and the hotel offers complimentary Turkish cooking classes and neighborhood walks (sign up in advance, as space is limited), an afternoon meze buffet, and other perks.

Pros

  • Staff especially eager to please
  • Excellent amenities
  • Gülhane tram station just steps away

Cons

  • Lower-level rooms have lackluster views
  • Poor soundproofing of rooms
  • Some rooms are small
Taya Hatun Sok. 5, Istanbul, Turkey
212-528–4344
hotel Details
52 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Splendid Palace Hotel

$$$$ | 23 Nisan Cad. 53, Istanbul, 34970, Turkey

This charming turn-of-the-century hotel (built in 1908) is the grande dame of Büyükada, with old-fashioned furniture, large rooms—including those in the front with stunning sea views—and a blend of Ottoman and Art Nouveau styles. The elegant building is topped by twin white domes modeled after Hotel Negresco in Nice, and all of the rooms have a tiny private balcony, regardless of whether they face the waterfront, the neighborhood, or the pool in the back. It's difficult to get a room on summer weekends unless you book ahead.

Pros

  • Peaceful, romantic setting
  • Waterfront views can't be beat
  • Historic building

Cons

  • No A/C
  • Vintage ambience may not be to everyone's taste
  • No car access
23 Nisan Cad. 53, Istanbul, 34970, Turkey
216-382–6950
hotel Details
69 rooms
Rate Includes: Closed Jan.–Mar., Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Sultanahmet Palace

$$ | Torun Sok. 19, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey

The sultans meet Las Vegas in this glitzy re-creation of an Ottoman palace, where grand marble stairways, columns, Greek statues, and fountains grace the public spaces, and rooms have touches like ornate ceiling moldings, arched windows, and cushioned divans for reclining and gazing out the windows. Lower-level rooms are larger and have bathtubs, while upper-floor rooms tend to be smaller, with hammam-style bathrooms lined with marble. Four deluxe rooms have sea views, and a few rooms have small balconies. The restaurant—where breakfast is also served—has an attractive terrace looking over the Sea of Marmara.

Pros

  • Prime location just behind Blue Mosque
  • Elegant decor and feel
  • Great views from restaurant

Cons

  • Some small rooms
  • Setup of hammam-style bathrooms can be awkward
  • No elevator
Torun Sok. 19, Istanbul, 34122, Turkey
212-458–0460
hotel Details
42 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Sumahan on the Water

$$$$ | Kuleli Cad. 43, Istanbul, 34684, Turkey Fodor's Choice

What was once a derelict distillery on the Asian waterfront of the Bosphorus is now one of Istanbul's chicest and most original places to stay, with comfortable rooms and suites—all with incredible water views and all decorated in a contemporary style with a few Turkish touches. Most rooms have fireplaces, and ground-level loft suites open onto a communal grassy yard. There's also an attractive hammam and small fitness area. Breakfast is served on the waterfront patio in warm months. The hotel has a private launch that makes regular runs across the Bosphorus (complimentary, but reservations needed) to Kabataş and Kuruçeşme.

Pros

  • Stunning waterfront location
  • Stylish and inviting public areas
  • Secluded, romantic atmosphere

Cons

  • Far from sights and commercial center
  • Somewhat inconvenient to get to without the free (for guests) private launch
  • Not all rooms are wheelchair-accessible
Kuleli Cad. 43, Istanbul, 34684, Turkey
216-422–8000
hotel Details
13 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Swissôtel The Bosphorus Istanbul

$$$$ | Bayıldım Cad. 2, Istanbul, 34357, Turkey

In a superb spot just above Dolmabahçe Palace, the Swissôtel offers excellent facilities and—from most of the comfortable, businesslike guest rooms—magnificent Bosphorus views that extend all the way to Topkapı Palace across the Golden Horn. The vast, high-ceilinged lobby has terraced levels that seem to cascade down to the water, and the overall effect is that of a grand old-world hotel; service is crisp and efficient. A massive spa and both indoor and outdoor pools provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation.

Pros

  • First-class service
  • Extensive dining options
  • Huge, top-notch gym

Cons

  • Expensive food, drinks, and Internet
  • Hotel can only be reached by taxi (or on foot)
  • Fairly impersonal atmosphere
Bayıldım Cad. 2, Istanbul, 34357, Turkey
212-326–1100
hotel Details
566 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

The St. Regis Istanbul

$$$$ | Mim Kemal Öke Cad. 35, Istanbul, Turkey

This ultrastylish addition to Istanbul’s ever-growing array of luxury hotels has large, beautifully designed, art deco–tinged rooms and suites and a prime location in the heart of the Nişantaşı shopping district, overlooking the dense greenery of Maçka Park. Contemporary art decorates the dramatic lobby and is integrated throughout the hotel. All guests are assigned a “butler” for more personalized service. A rooftop bar, the first international branch of Wolfgang Puck’s Spago restaurant, and a lavish day spa facility are draws for nonguests as well.

Pros

  • Plush, attractive rooms
  • Extensive spa facilities
  • Attentive service

Cons

  • Location not the most convenient for sightseeing
  • Limited public transit options
  • Small pools are meant for lounging, not swimming
Mim Kemal Öke Cad. 35, Istanbul, Turkey
212-368–0000
hotel Details
118 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Tomtom Suites

$$$ | Boğazkesen Cad., Tomtom Kaptan Sok. 18, Istanbul, 34433, Turkey Fodor's Choice

A restored 1901 residence that once housed Franciscan nuns offers superb accommodations and authentic character, with guest rooms furnished with warm woods, textiles in natural colors, high ceilings, and original artwork. Huge bathrooms put guests in the lap of luxury with polished, veined white marble, floor heating, Jacuzzis, and Molton Brown amenities. Front-facing rooms on upper floors have views of the Bosphorus and Topkapı Palace.

Pros

  • Historic building with romantic ambience
  • On a quiet street
  • Helpful, welcoming staff

Cons

  • Only upper room categories have sea views
  • Reached via steep streets
  • Rather high rates, especially considering lack of fitness facilities
Boğazkesen Cad., Tomtom Kaptan Sok. 18, Istanbul, 34433, Turkey
212-292–4949
hotel Details
20 suites
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

W Istanbul

$$$$ | Süleyman Seba Cad. 22, Istanbul, 34357, Turkey

An 1870s Ottoman block of row houses has been restored and enhanced with posh ultramodernity—sexy lighting, chic East-meets-West decor, and cool amenities like iPod docks and rain showers. For summertime stays, the rooms with outdoor cabanas or with tiny private gardens are particularly romantic. The hotel has its own hip restaurant–bar along with a drinks-only back garden, and the surrounding, up-and-coming neighborhood has plenty of restaurants and galleries.

Pros

  • Cool, trendy atmosphere
  • Ultracomfortable beds
  • Some rooms have private gardens

Cons

  • Dim, nightclub-like lighting in public spaces may not suit all tastes
  • Gym and spa areas are small
  • Service can be hit or miss
Süleyman Seba Cad. 22, Istanbul, 34357, Turkey
212-381–2121
hotel Details
140 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Witt Istanbul Hotel

$$$$ | Defterdar Yokuşu 26, Istanbul, 34433, Turkey
witt

All accommodations at this stylish boutique hotel in the popular Cihangir neighborhood are suites—essentially, very large, open-plan apartments with separate sleeping and living areas and (in most) "kitchenettes" with marble countertops. The design is contemporary and überchic: hardwood floors, exposed concrete ceilings, neutral tones, and designer lamps and furniture. Rooms on the fourth floor and up have views of the Golden Horn, while penthouse suites boast small private terraces with chaise longues. A roof terrace with a small garden and a sweeping view gives guests an additional place to chill out with a drink or a book.

Pros

  • Swanky design aesthetic
  • In a quiet residential neighborhood with trendy café scene
  • Personalized service

Cons

  • Steep uphill walk from nearby tram stop
  • Venue is not that family friendly
  • Minimal public spaces
Defterdar Yokuşu 26, Istanbul, 34433, Turkey
212-293–1500
hotel Details
18 suites
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts