Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus occupies a restored 19th-century Ottoman palace on the European shore of the strait, in Beşiktaş, with the hills of Asia across the water. The palace was once a residence for Ottoman officials, and its rooms keep hand-painted ceilings and Ottoman detail, set against contemporary mahogany furniture in deep blues and terracotta. There are 145 rooms and 25 suites, looking over the water, the gardens or the city, and nearly a quarter face the Asian shore. Aqua serves seafood beside the Bosphorus, Yalı is the all-day lounge for Turkish breakfasts and afternoon tea, and in summer there is a grill on the terrace and a menu by the pool. The spa takes its cue from the hammam, with marble Turkish baths, steam rooms, saunas and a skylit indoor pool, and an outdoor pool sits on the quay. The hotel has its own landing, so a private boat can collect you for a cruise along the strait.
- Nearest airport
- Istanbul (IST), 20 Miles / 32 Kilometres
- Rooms
- 145 rooms and 25 suites
Insider tip Arrange for a private motor yacht to pick you up at the hotel's own landing and spend a late afternoon on the Bosphorus.
Why I choose it It puts you on the water in a real palace, which is the most rewarding way to experience Istanbul between days in the old city.