Straddling two continents and shaped by centuries of empire, Istanbul combines iconic landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.
Istanbul is one of the world's great cities, a destination where Europe and Asia meet across the waters of the Bosphorus and where centuries of history remain woven into everyday life. Once the capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, the city continues to captivate visitors with its extraordinary blend of culture, architecture and energy.
Magnificent landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace stand alongside bustling markets, elegant waterfront districts and neighbourhoods filled with cafés, galleries and independent boutiques. From the historic streets of Sultanahmet to the fashionable districts lining the Bosphorus, Istanbul constantly reveals new layers of its character.
The city's appeal extends far beyond its famous monuments. Acclaimed restaurants, rooftop terraces, luxury hotels and a thriving creative scene have helped establish Istanbul as one of the world's most rewarding urban destinations. Whether crossing the Bosphorus by ferry, exploring centuries-old streets or discovering contemporary Turkish culture, visitors encounter a city of remarkable depth, beauty and ambition.
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
The Bank Hotel Istanbul, a distinguished five-star property in the vibrant Karaköy district, stands as a meticulously restored neo-Renaissance gem, designed by Italian architect Antoine Tedeschi in the 1880s. Nestled on historic Voyvoda Street, once the financial heart of the Ottoman Empire, this boutique hotel, part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, blends eclectic 19th-century architecture with modern artistry, offering an intimate retreat for those drawn to Istanbul's rich cultural tapestry. The 63 rooms and suites, housed in the iconic Sümerbank Building, exude timeless charm with high ceilings, ornate detailing, and contemporary comforts. Each features plush bedding, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, curated minibars, and sleek bathrooms with rain showers and L'Occitane toiletries. Many rooms offer glimpses of Istanbul's historic peninsula, with select suites boasting private balconies that frame the city's dynamic skyline, creating a seamless blend of heritage and luxury. Dining at The Bank Hotel unfolds at The Bank Roof, a breathtaking rooftop venue where international and Turkish cuisines intertwine, from tender lamb kebabs to vibrant ceviche, all savoured against panoramic views of the Bosphorus and old Istanbul. The adjacent rooftop bar crafts signature cocktails with local herbs and premium spirits, perfect for twilight gatherings. The hotel's spa, a haven of calm, offers bespoke treatments and a traditional Turkish hammam, paired with a modern fitness centre for rejuvenation. A cozy library, stocked with contemporary books and accented by lush plants, invites quiet moments, while curated art tours to nearby galleries like Istanbul Modern and Elipsis immerse guests in Karaköy's creative pulse. Ideally situated just 700 meters from Istiklal Avenue and 2 kilometers from Taksim Square, The Bank Hotel Istanbul is a short stroll from Sultanahmet's historic treasures and 31 miles from Istanbul Airport, offering effortless access to the city's vibrant cultural and artistic heart.
From £145 per night
AJWA Sultanahmet, a five-star boutique hotel in Istanbul's historic Sultanahmet district, embodies serene luxury with a halal approach, blending Ottoman-inspired elegance and gracious hospitality as a member of Preferred Hotels LVX Collection. The 61 rooms and suites, adorned with handcrafted mother-of-pearl furniture, silk Tabriz carpets, and hand-painted tiles, feature Loewe Ultra HD TVs, electronic curtains, air conditioning, underfloor heating, and M Line Slow Motion beds. Private bathrooms with Dornbracht fittings and bespoke marble work create an opulent retreat, enriched with tea and coffee setups and artwork by renowned Azerbaijani artists like Sattar Bahlulzade and Maral Rahmanzade. Dining at Zeferan Restaurant, perched on the 8th floor, offers a sumptuous breakfast buffet and à la carte menus featuring Turkish and international cuisine, paired with breathtaking views of the Marmara Sea and Princes' Islands. The alcohol-free restaurant crafts dishes with fresh, local ingredients, served in a refined setting with Ottoman accents. The hotel's bar offers a selection of non-alcoholic beverages, teas, and coffees, perfect for unwinding in the elegant library or lobby lounge. Leisure thrives with an indoor pool, a spa centre offering rejuvenating treatments, and a modern gym for active guests. The hotel's curated cultural experiences, including private tours to nearby historic sites, immerse guests in Istanbul's rich heritage. Located a 10-minute walk from the Blue Mosque, less than 1 kilometer from the Grand Bazaar, 45 kilometers from Sabiha Gokcen Airport, and 53 kilometers from Istanbul Airport, AJWA Sultanahmet ensures seamless access to Istanbul's iconic landmarks and cultural treasures.
From £415 per night
The Stay Bosphorus, a luxurious five-star retreat in Istanbul's vibrant Ortaköy neighborhood, is a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion crafted by the renowned Balyan family, architects of the city's grandest palaces. Perched along the shimmering Bosphorus, this boutique property, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, offers an intimate blend of historic elegance and modern sophistication, ideal for travellers seeking a culturally rich urban escape. The 23 rooms and suites, among the closest to the Bosphorus in Istanbul, showcase high ceilings, ornate plasterwork, and contemporary furnishings, harmonizing the mansion's original grandeur with modern comfort. Each is equipped with air conditioning, satellite TVs, curated minibars, and sleek bathrooms featuring premium toiletries. Floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies in select rooms reveal sweeping panoramic views of the Bosphorus, with the Asian coast and Istanbul's ancient skyline as a breathtaking backdrop. Dining at The Stay Bosphorus unfolds at The Bosphorus Kitchen, where guests savour Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, from fresh seafood platters to aromatic lamb kofta, in a refined setting with waterside vistas. The adjacent bar, adorned with nautical accents, serves handcrafted cocktails and local wines, perfect for sipping as ferries glide past. A serene spa offers tailored massages and wellness treatments, while the elegant fitness centre caters to active guests. The hotel's proximity to Ortaköy's charming cafes, jewelers, and boutiques invites leisurely exploration, with curated boat tours along the Bosphorus providing a unique perspective of Istanbul's storied shores. Nestled just 4.1 kilometers from lively Taksim Square and 9 kilometers from the historic Sultanahmet Square, The Stay Bosphorus is 33 miles from Istanbul Airport, with a nearby ferry pier offering seamless access to the city's cultural and commercial hubs across both continents.
From £175 per night
Address Istanbul, a five-star luxury hotel in Istanbul, Turkey, redefines sophistication with its seamless blend of modern elegance and exceptional Turkish hospitality, catering to discerning leisure and group travellers. The 320 rooms and suites are designed with refined comfort, featuring air-conditioned spaces, flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, minibars, and private bathrooms with showers and premium toiletries. Many rooms offer captivating city views, complemented by thoughtful amenities like iPads and kettles, creating an indulgent retreat for couples or solo guests. Dining at the hotel's signature restaurant delights with a lavish buffet breakfast, showcasing Turkish and international flavours, from fresh pastries to savoury local dishes. Lunch and dinner menus elevate culinary artistry with carefully crafted meals, served in a stylish setting. The chic bar offers a curated selection of cocktails, wines, and light bites, perfect for unwinding in a sophisticated ambiance. Leisure thrives with an indoor pool, sauna, and traditional hammam, offering serene relaxation. The state-of-the-art fitness centre caters to active guests, while the shared lounge provides a tranquil space to connect or relax. Curated experiences, such as private city tours arranged by the 24-hour concierge, immerse guests in Istanbul's vibrant culture. Located 7.4 kilometers from Maiden's Tower, 12 kilometers from Dolmabahce Palace, and 15 kilometers from Taksim Square, Address Istanbul sits 32 kilometers from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, ensuring effortless access to the city's iconic landmarks and cultural hubs.
From £140 per night
Adahan DeCamondo Pera, a five-star boutique retreat in Istanbul's vibrant Beyoğlu district, blends the historic charm of its 1874 Camondo family origins with contemporary Turkish elegance, offering a refined escape in the heart of the city. The 50 rooms, including 16 vintage-inspired suites, feature high ceilings, hardwood floors, and custom wooden furniture, paired with modern comforts like LCD TVs, air conditioning, and private bathrooms with premium toiletries. Many rooms offer views of the historic Galata district, creating an intimate and stylish haven for couples or solo travellers seeking a unique stay. Dining at Béatrice Restaurant, perched on the rooftop, delights with a buffet breakfast of Turkish and international flavours, followed by an à la carte menu for lunch and dinner, showcasing dishes from local meze to global cuisine, all framed by breathtaking city views. The chic Clarisse Bar crafts artisanal cocktails and fine wines, perfect for unwinding in a lively yet cozy ambiance. Leisure unfolds in the inviting lobby lounge, ideal for relaxation, while the hotel's terrace offers panoramic vistas of Istanbul. Complimentary exhibitions and concerts curated by the attentive staff immerse guests in the city's rich cultural scene, with nearby galleries and boutiques sparking exploration. Located 150 meters from the bustling Istiklal Avenue, a 5-minute walk from Galata Tower, 1.5 kilometers from Taksim Square, and 18 kilometers from Istanbul Airport, Adahan DeCamondo Pera ensures effortless access to Istanbul's vibrant nightlife, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures.
From £95 per night
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, a five-star retreat in Istanbul, Turkey, graces the shores of the iconic Bosphorus, blending 19th-century Ottoman grandeur with warm Turkish hospitality. The 170 rooms and suites are elegantly appointed with fine furnishings, featuring air-conditioned comfort, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, iPod docking stations, minibars, and private bathrooms with premium toiletries. Many rooms offer balconies with panoramic Bosphorus views, creating a luxurious haven for couples or solo travellers seeking refined serenity. Dining at Aqua Restaurant delights with Mediterranean cuisine, showcasing Italian and Turkish specialties, from fresh seafood to savoury kebabs, served on a terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. A lavish buffet breakfast offers international flavours, while the Pool Grill serves fresh salads and grilled dishes poolside. The Lobby Bar and Lounge crafts artisanal cocktails and local wines in a cozy, social setting. Leisure thrives with a heated outdoor pool framed by the Bosphorus skyline, an indoor pool, and a serene garden. The spa offers exotic Turkish hammam experiences, sauna sessions, and bespoke body treatments, complemented by a modern fitness centre. Curated experiences, like private Bosphorus cruises or cultural tours arranged by the 24-hour concierge, immerse guests in Istanbul's vibrant heritage. Located a 4-minute walk from Beşiktaş Square, 25 kilometers from Ataturk Airport, and 50 kilometers from Istanbul Airport, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus ensures seamless access to the city's lively cultural and historic treasures.
From £385 per night