Istanbul’s opulent architecture and Mediterranean climate make it one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Marvel at the sky-stretching towers of the Hagia Sophia, walk among the multicolored tulips of Sultanahmet Park, or soak up hundreds of years of history in the healing baths of Çemberlitaş Hamamı. This largest city in Turkey is where Europe and Asia meet. You’ll find decadent comfort at every turn when you stay in Istanbul. After a long day of sightseeing, you need a comfortable place to rest your head. If you’re looking for contemporary comforts, check into one of these top luxury hotels in Istanbul, Turkey.
Tip from tour guide
Apart from admiring incredible views from the window of your luxury hotel room, this helicopter tour is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty and grandeur of Istanbul. This tour will take you soaring over the city’s most iconic landmarks and let you admire breathtaking vistas. From the dome of Hagia Sophia to the towering Bosphorus Bridge, you’ll have unparalleled views of Istanbul’s stunning skyline and historical architecture. So whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, impress a loved one, or simply enjoy an incredibly unique and exciting adventure, an Istanbul helicopter tour is the perfect choice. Afterward, you can go back to your hotel to relax and enjoy 5-star services.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to luxury services and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
1. Address Istanbul (from USD 515)
Address Istanbul lives up to its name. It has a great location inside the Emaar Square Mall, which houses high-fashion clothing and jewelry shops. Don’t let the name fool you — it’s not just Address Istanbul’s location that makes it one of the city’s finest luxury hotels. Its sleek, modern look incorporates subtle aspects of the traditional Mediterranean style.
You can enjoy a soak in the indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and Turkish bath. Massages, yoga classes, and body treatments are on offer at the on-site spa. At The Restaurant (yes, that’s what it’s called) you can munch on Turkish and international cuisine while you enjoy unique cocktails.
Address Istanbul
Address: Unalan Mahallesi Libadiye Caddesi No 82F Blok G
8.28 km (5.2 mi) from Galata Tower
2. The Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery (from USD 155)
The Galata Istanbul Hotel is situated on the northern side of the city, in the old district of Karaköy. Its gilded, lavishly decorated rooms — some of which include a terrace — and Turkish bath dating back to the 1700s will make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time to a more elegant age.
But of course, you won’t have to sacrifice modern comforts. With free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and laundry services, you’ll have a stress-free stay here. Book a yoga class or massage package at the on-site spa for supreme relaxation.
Tip from tour guide
If you're looking to get to the top of the nearby Galata Tower, you can instead choose Galata Konak Cafe & Restaurant. This cafe is less than a five-minute walk from the hotel and has almost the same view as the Galata Tower. You can enjoy the unique Istanbul view while sipping your coffee or tea. It's worth noting that the popular Turkish TV series "Masumlar Apartmanı" is also filmed in this cafe.
Tip from tour guide
If you're craving a cup of authentic Turkish coffee, check out Cumbalı Kahve. This is a cute corner café in Balat, Fatih, about a 12-minute drive from the hotel. You'll be greeted by the perfect combination of modern and rustic ambience as you sit down for an exceptional coffee experience. The natural wood accents and cozy seating will make you want to stick around for a couple of hours.
The Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery
Address: Bankalar Caddesi No 21 Beyoglu
202 meters (0.2 ft) from Galata Tower
3. Raffles Istanbul (from USD 689)
The luxurious decor at Raffles Istanbul strikes the perfect balance between the city’s old-world charm and the modern luxury you’re looking for. Majestic mosaics, elegant chandeliers, and sleek leather armchairs line the lobby. The hotel is located inside the Zorlu Center, a swanky shopping mall where you can browse the racks at high fashion outlets such as Dior, Tiffany and Co., and Louis Vuitton.
The rooms and suites offer impressive views of the Bosporus Strait’s blue waters, the old city’s dignified domes, or the new city’s stunning skyline. The hotel has seven dining options. Enjoy pan-Asian cuisine at Isokyo and high-tea and pastries at Lavinia. For a dose of pampering, book a rejuvenating treatment at the on-site spa, which also has Turkish baths.
Tip from tour guide
Take a 15-minute drive from this hotel to pay a visit to the iconic Galata Tower. Although many tourists who come to Istanbul only wander around Sultanahmet, they ignore the bohemian life, boutique cafés and restaurants, and the original new-generation cafeterias with their own unique character around Galata Tower. In addition to these, many vintage clothing stores surround it.
Almost all the old houses around Galata Tower have been converted into hotels. Many tourists who want to be close to Sultanahmet and stay around Galata prefer these hotels.
Raffles Istanbul
Address: Zorlu Center Besiktas
5.85 km (3.7 mi) from Galata Tower
4. Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia (from USD 139)
Reasonable pricing with good value for money, especially for executive rooms and lounge access.
Well-maintained facilities, spacious rooms, multiple pools, and a well-equipped gym.
Convenient for business travelers, close to a major mall, but a bit far from tourist attractions. Easy access to transportation.
Excellent breakfast buffet with a wide variety of options. Quality dining experiences with friendly and efficient staff.
Enjoy panoramic views of the city from your room in the high-rise tower of Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia. You can spend your downtime swimming in one of three pools (two outdoor, one indoor) or relaxing in the hot tub. You can even book a variety of spa treatments or fitness classes at the on-site Palestra Fitness and Spa.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can avail yourself of the 24-hour room service, or sample classic Mediterranean favorites at the on-site Orange Southern Mediterranean Grill. With abundant meeting spaces and free wireless internet access in all areas, this is a perfect option for those taking business trips to Istanbul.
Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia
Address: Kayışdağı Cad. No:3 Ataşehir
11.79 km (7.4 mi) from Galata Tower
Istanbul Tour Guide
Rose The Guide
Professional Tour / Travel Guide and Photographer Certified by Turkish Republic Ministry of Culture and Tourism. I am a knowledgeable and motivated individual with years of experience in organizing group tours in several areas; have the ability to motivate different sets of audience; have the ability to communicate effectively and possess high degree of energy and enthusiasm.
Istanbul Tour Guide
Dilek Orubegarcia
My name is Dilek, a national-licensed tour guide. I am 40 years old and have been guiding for 12 years. My husband is from Mexico as a Mexican Turkish family and with our two young kids we live in Istanbul. When I don't work I spend most of my time outdoor with my family, enjoying Istanbul as much as we can. We go out, try to discover new restaurants, new museums, art galleries, children's acti... Read more
Istanbul Tour Guide
Safiye Kaban
Hi there, this is Safiye from istanbul. I am a professional licensed tour guide and travel expert over 12 years. I have guided thousands of travellers from all around the world. I love meeting with new people, making new friends and building bridges. I orgnize cultural, historical, shopping and food tours to small groups, I mostly guide to private tours. I am also a foodie, I love discovering n... Read more
Istanbul Tour Guide
Guide Hamide
Hello, everyone! I'm Hamide, a professional tour guide in Istanbul. I studied archeology, mithology, history of art, anatolia, and religions. After my bachelors' degree graduation, I started to work in Cappadocia for 4 years. I came and settled in Istanbul when I realised that Istanbul has a very deep history, a unique multiple culture and stunning geography! I still keep experiencing new taste... Read more
Tours by Guide
5. Retaj Royale Istanbul (from USD 71)
Reasonable rates with good value for money, although additional charges for breakfast and some amenities.
Spacious rooms, clean facilities, and a variety of on-site amenities including a spa, gym, and pool.
Convenient location for business meetings, but a bit far from the city center and lacking nearby attractions.
Mixed reviews on the food, with some guests enjoying the breakfast and restaurant options, while others found it lacking in taste and variety.
Retaj Royale Istanbul is the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Its lobby has grand chandeliers, while the guest suites come with a spa bath.
With a variety of room sizes to accommodate travel groups as big as six adults and four kids, Retaj Royale has something to suit every traveler’s needs. However, its grand 800-seat ballroom makes it an ideal venue for big events such as weddings and business conferences. But you don’t need a special occasion to visit this luxury hotel. Its indoor pool, Zemzem international restaurant, and spa with Turkish baths make it a worthy destination year-round.
Rotta Hotel Istanbul
Address: 15 Temmuz Mah. Cami Yolu Cad. No:1/A Gunesli
13.19 km (8.2 mi) from Galata Tower
6. Barceló Istanbul (from USD 202)
Reasonable pricing for a central location near Taksim Square.
Spacious rooms, excellent breakfast, and a well-maintained spa and gym.
Conveniently situated just a short walk from Taksim Square with easy access to attractions.
Varied and tasty buffet breakfast, with a restaurant offering a good dining experience.
This 5-star hotel is in the middle of one of Istanbul’s busiest neighborhoods. Barceló Istanbul is just a 7-minute walk from Taksim Square, home to the triumphant Republic Monument and the awe-inspiring Taksim Mosque.
The hotel is decorated in an exquisite style, reflecting traditional Turkish architecture. And with four on-site restaurants and a 12,917 sq. ft. (3,937 sqm) wellness center that looks out on the city, you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from the hotel. Traveling with family or a large group? Check out one of the adjoining room options, some with private Turkish baths.
Barceló Istanbul
Address: Abdulhakhamit Cad., No: 25/B, Taksim
1.94 km (1.3 mi) from Galata Tower
7. Rixos Pera Istanbul (from USD 181)
Plush sofas, luxurious armchairs, and crystalline chandeliers make Rixos Pera and its palatial suites the very picture of luxury. The hotel has four restaurants serving everything, from Turkish meze to the world’s finest wines, plus an English-style pub and a cocktail lounge.
Whatever your reason for visiting Istanbul, Rixos Pera has a program for you. The History Lover Package offers guided tours of Istanbul’s historic Hippodrome and some of its world-renowned mosques, the Honeymoon Package provides a romantic retreat with included room service and discounts on spa treatments, and the Family Package gets you complimentary museum tickets and milk and cookies for the kids.
Rixos Pera Istanbul
Address: Kamerhatun Mah. Mesrutiyet Cad. No:44 Tepebası Taksim
870 meters (0.6 ft) from Galata Tower
8. InterContinental Istanbul, an IHG Hotel (from USD 217)
Reasonable pricing with good value for money, breakfast around 800 Liras.
Excellent amenities including a 5-star spa, spacious rooms, and a beautiful lobby.
Conveniently located near attractions, with easy access to Taksim Square and Nisantasi.
Exceptional dining experiences with breathtaking views, a variety of food, and friendly staff.
InterContinental Istanbul’s location can’t be beat. It’s just a 5-minute drive to Nişantaşı, one of Istanbul’s classiest shopping districts, where you can shop for custom suits at Bağzibağli or snack on lahmacun at Tatbak. Dolmabahçe Palace is just a 2-minute drive away from the property.
Of course, the hotel itself is worth spending some time in. Many of its upscale rooms offer views of the Bosphorus Strait or Taksim Park. You can take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, or relax and soak up some rays in the garden. Need to chill out after a long day of shopping? Book a massage in the on-site spa, or blow off some steam in the Turkish baths and sauna.
InterContinental Istanbul, an IHG Hotel
Address: Asker Ocagi Cad. No :1, Taksim
2.0 km (1.3 mi) from Galata Tower
9. Mövenpick Istanbul Hotel Golden Horn (from USD 100)
Good value for money with complimentary amenities like parking and coffee
Spacious rooms, on-site restaurant with panoramic views, and convenient shuttle service
Located near parks, with easy access to Istiklal Street and Golden Horn views
Delicious breakfast, great coffee, and enjoyable dining experiences with room for improvement
Located close to Istanbul’s historically bustling Golden Horn waterway, some rooms at this branch of the Mövenpick luxury hotel chain offer breathtaking views. You won’t want to rush out of bed in the morning with complimentary coffee, tea, and bathrobes in every room. The on-site CulinArt Restaurant dishes out Mediterranean and European dishes. Not that hungry? Snack on over 150 different types of cheese at the hotel’s Ariste Cheese Shop.
Want to see the Golden Horn up-close? Ride along the water on one of the hotel’s complimentary bike rentals. An 8-minute drive will lead you to the charming Balat neighborhood, where historic places of worship and brightly painted houses line rustic cobblestone streets.
Tip from tour guide
Exploring Balat’s vibrant doors is like stepping into a rainbow’s secret hideout! Each door tells a story – some chic, some quirky, but all bursting with character. Forget knocking, I’m just here for the colors! Tiny streets and lots of crossings full of fancy historical houses with colors and designs from Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures all melt together in the same maze-like neighbourhood of Istanbul.
Mövenpick Istanbul Hotel Golden Horn
Address: Pierre Lotti Golden Horn Silahtaraga Cad. No:87 Eyup Sultan
4.57 km (2.9 mi) from Galata Tower
10. Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel (from USD 142)
Located just a 7-minute walk from its namesake (the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that dates back to the 6th century CE), Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel is a modern luxury hotel surrounded by centuries of history. On the outside, it wows you with Ottoman-style architecture, but the rooms inside are adorned with vibrant contemporary art and snazzy furniture.
Relax in the Turkish bath, or book a special treatment at the on-site spa. Or, just take a load off in the hotel garden. With in-room espresso machines and two on-site restaurants, fine dining is never far away. For a memorable experience, book a room with views of the spectacular domes and towers of the Hagia Sophia.
Tip from tour guide
Once you've rested up, walk to Hagia Sophia to admire the beautiful mosaics. In this mosaic, for example, we see Leo VI who seems to be performing proskynesis (an act of homage). Christ is enthroned with 2 roundels of Mary and Gabriel. He wears a chiton. Mary’s hands are outstretched to Christ to forgive Leo, and Christ is holding a script with the words: "Peace be upon you. I am the light of the world."
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
Address: Divanyolu Cd. Alemdar Mh. Ticarethane Sk. No:10 Sultanahmet
1.89 km (1.2 mi) from Galata Tower
Stay in style at Istanbul's luxury hotels
Between its majestic palaces and rejuvenating hot baths, you’ll want to live like a sultan after walking Istanbul’s storied streets. Since Dolmabahçe Palace isn’t open to overnight guests, you’ll have to settle for one of these luxury hotels. Each hotel is kitted out with contemporary comforts, including a spa, swimming pool, and restaurants serving a range of cuisines.
In light of the February 2023 earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria, Trip101 urges you to be apprised of the latest news if you have any plans to travel to Eastern Turkey. Other parts of the country remain open to travelers.
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