Raffles Istanbul

Raffles Istanbul strikes a balance with warm, contemporary spaces within a gleaming high-rise.

• The massive 33,000 square foot spa, with 3 hammams
• Panoramic views across the city and Bosphorus
• Murals gracing the walls of hotel’s 185 guest rooms and suites

Perched atop one of Istanbul’s seven hills, the Raffles commands panoramic views over the two continents which divide this city, Europe and Asia. The property is housed within the Zorlu Center, a gleaming development that contains a mix of retail, performing arts, office and residential space, echoing a long-time trend in Hong Kong and Tokyo.

Guests arrive to a soaring lobby with a beautiful mural depicting a montage of Istanbul’s notable buildings by French hyper-photorealist Jean-Francois Rauzier. Works of art are woven into the hotel’s Turkish contemporary design throughout, and subtle murals in the hotel’s 185 rooms and suites bring a sense of place to an otherwise neutral palette.

The guest rooms and suites are among the largest in town, with entry-level rooms carving out 775-square feet plus a balcony. Be sure to request a view to ensure a dazzling vantage of the Bosphorus. The Continental Suites, perfect for families, feel like apartments with two bedrooms, a living area and kitchenette. The hotel was built with today’s family travelers in mind, as many connecting options are available.

Istanbulites flock to the Zorlu Center as the city’s premier venue for performing arts. The hotel’s two restaurants and two bars buzz nightly with a mix of stylish locals, and the 33,000-square-foot spa is another unique selling point.

The Raffles is well-suited to a clientele of business travelers, return visitors and families seeking ample space.