At a Glance
Although the Four Seasons Bosphorus draws the most elite crowds these days, the Çiragan Palace Kempinski is still a top choice for those who desire a grand resort–like atmosphere right on the water.
Indagare Loves
- Spectacular pool which appears to spill into the Bosphorus
- Palace Suites that let travelers live like a sultan
- Excellent Turkish-Ottoman cuisine at Tuğra restaurant
Review
For many years the Çiragan Palace Kempinski was considered the top choice for travelers who wanted the luxury of a five-star hotel with the amenities of a resort. Although the Palace Suites, which are situated in an adjacent sultan’s palace renovated in 2007, are still quite special, many of the Kempinski’s 284 rooms and 31 suites have somewhat of a corporate feel, and those with a view of the water require a fairly serious upgrade. That said, it’s still tough to beat the hotel’s stunning pool, which appears to spill right into the Bosphorus, and Tuğra, which offers a menu of classic Turkish-Ottoman cuisine, is considered among the finest restaurants in the city. Even if you’re not staying here, book a table with a view of the river for a special night out. And for travelers who still prefer an Old World atmosphere to the much slicker and more modern luxury of the Four Seasons, the Kempinski is a good alternative.
Who Should Stay
Those who love nostalgia and grandeur.
Written by Indagare