Whether you’re sipping Turkish tea by the water or exploring trendy neighbourhoods like Karaköy, Istanbul enchants.
Stroll through the bustling streets of Sultanahmet, where the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque evoke a bygone era, or lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar. Take a boat trip along the Bosphorus, savouring the stunning views of palaces, bridges and mosques that puncture the skyline.
Istanbul effortlessly blends ancient history with a modern energy, offering visitors a vibrant mix of culture, architecture and nightlife – and this is reflected at The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, which blends historic Ottoman architecture with contemporary sophistication.
The Vibe
Located alongside the shimmering banks of the Bosphorus, the vibe here is one of understated opulence; guests can unwind by the pool, indulge in the spa, or sip cocktails in the waterfront bar – all with seamless service. The hotel’s lush gardens, Bosphorus views and refined interiors create a soothing retreat from the vibrant energy of the city.
The Rooms
Set within a restored 19th-century Ottoman palace each room is a sanctuary of elegance with high ceilings, plush furnishings, and large windows that frame stunning views of either the Bosphorus or the hotel’s perfectly manicured gardens. Across 170 rooms you’ll find seven types of suites and five guest rooms, varying in size. Décor is a fusion of contemporary design and traditional Turkish accents, featuring rich fabrics in muted tones with accents of aqua, silver and taupe to reflect the hues of the Bosphorus. Expansive marble bathrooms with intricate detailing evoke the city’s storied past.
The Food + Drink
The three main restaurants perched on the edge of the water offer al fresco dining and breathtaking views of the bustling waterway. Yali Lounge just off the lobby stretches across the outdoor patio and is a stylish place to enjoy a breakfast buffet of fruits, pastries, cereals, local cheese and meat, or à la carte options including omelettes, avocado on toast and Turkish-style eggs. Lunch here is salads, small plates and light bites.
Aqua offers an innovative, fine-dining approach to Mediterranean seafood, with a distinctly Turkish influence. Lobster, scallops, monkfish and local catches are served like works of art on a plate. Local wines are excellent and sommelier Fatih Kaplan has done a great job of designing a varied, quality wine menu. Experience the best of it with the tasting menu and wine pairing. At Ocakbaşi, take a culinary journey around Turkey. Start with a mezze of warm pitta pillows, served with creamy tzatziki and hummus followed by a tender lamb kebab and tomato salad. If you’re still hungry you can order local salads, grilled fish or pasta poolside from The Club, which is open from May through to October.
The Little Extras
The property showcases artwork from local creatives including sculptures, paintings and installations and, if you are looking for authentic Turkish art to take home, the hotel can arrange shipping.
The René Clinic located in the basement, next to the spa, offers state-of-the-art beauty treatments. The Red Carpet facial combining radiofrequency massaging, light therapy and cryotherapy will leave your skin feeling brighter, tighter and glowing.
‘Do it Like a Local’ is a series of curated experiences that give guests a taste of local life. Book a sunset sail on the Bosphorus, a guided tour of the Old Town or a private photo shoot around the city.
The To-Do List
A visit to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without having a Turkish hammam, book into the spa to be scrubbed, massaged – and left with the softest skin. Or, if the weather is good, pitch up poolside and relax in one of the hotel’s cabanas while soaking up the views.
Hop on to the hotel yacht and take a trip across to the Old Town to discover the city’s history and bustling bazars – and once you’re done drop into their sister hotel for a mint tea, housed in a former prison, the property is set around a stunning bougainvillea and herb garden.
Outside of Istanbul’s main attractions, shopping is a great way to spend a day and you’ll find everything from vintage stores to large malls, and designer labels to independent brands. Find out more in our Istanbul shopping guide.
Image credits: Four Seasons Istanbul Bosphorous
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