Istanbul: Where to Stay: Grand: Çiragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Çiragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

For those who desire a grand resort–like atmosphere, right on the Bosporus, the top choice is the Çiragan Palace Kempinski. Although many of the 284 rooms and 31 suites have somewhat of a corporate feel, and those with a view of the water require a fairly serious upgrade, nothing beats the hotel’s stunning pool, which appears to spill right into the Bosporus. In April 2007, the property completed a renovation of the adjacent sultan’s palace, which now contains eleven lavish and enormous Palace suites. Of its many restaurants, the Tugra, which offers a menu of classic Turkish-Ottoman cuisine, is considered among the finest in the city, so even if you’re not staying here, book a table (with a view of the river) for a special evening out. Rooms from $566.