Istanbul Hotels|Istanbul, Turkey

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus

Name: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
Telephone: 90-212-381-40-00

Istanbul’s urban waterfront escape

VERIFIED LUXURY

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Housed in a 19th-century Ottoman mansion, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus charms with its breathtaking setting. Being on the edge of Bosphorus is a uniquely thrilling experience — it’s right where Europe ends and Asia Minor starts, with the Asian side just minutes away by sea.

Centrally located steps from Besiktas ferry quay, the luxury hotel is both an urban hot spot and a leisurely escape from the buzz of the city.

From an Instagram-worthy waterfront pool to a serene spa with a staple hammam and plush accommodations sumptuous enough for a sultan, this posh palace-turned-Four Seasons property offers endless ways to unwind in the heart of Istanbul.

Our Inspector's Highlights

Four Season Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus puts Turkish talent front and center with a rotating display of contemporary artwork from local creatives in the public areas. A collection of sculptures extends outdoors, turning the seafront into an open-air exhibition area.
The outdoor pool perched on the seaside makes you feel like you’ve landed in the French Riviera. The indoor swimming hole (complete with a whirlpool and underwater speakers) has an airy feeling with a skylight and high ceilings; the tropical bamboo and fluted marble columns give off an ancient Egyptian flair.
When in Istanbul, head for the hammam, and this property has three. Listen to classical Turkish music while you’re bathed and exfoliated atop a heated marble platform — the pinnacle of Turkish pampering.
Whether you’re looking for a restaurant recommendation or a luxe Bosphorus cruise, the friendly staff is happy to help.
There’s always something going on at this popular Istanbul hotel. During the winter, an ice rink is installed in the garden surrounded by hot beverage and street food stalls, and on summer nights, the seafront is transformed into a pop-up grill-bar, a modern take on the locally famous ocakbasi kebab house concept.

Things to Know

The basement-level shop at the Four Seasons carries a surprisingly diverse collection of local goods. If you’re limited on time (or don’t want to haggle at the Grand Bazaar), you can find a range of designer jewelry, handcrafted tiles, mohair Angora wool and Turkish designer shoes and bags right at the hotel.
Don’t break a sweat about keeping up your workout routine. The Istanbul property is home to a spacious fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and classes (Pilates, Power Plate, TRX, yoga, etc.), or you can join the jogging group that runs all the way up to Bosphorus Bridge and back, led by a professional trainer.
Keep in mind that there are two Four Seasons hotels in Istanbul. Take the complimentary shuttle between the two to enjoy the facilities at both the Bosphorus property and its sister location, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet.

The Rooms

Rooms are either in the historic main building (part of the original 19th-century palace) or in the two newer annexes on either side. Request an accommodation in the main building to ensure sparkling Bosphorus vistas.
At 484 square feet, Deluxe, Courtyard and Superior Rooms each come with a plush divan fitted in a bay window, perfect for cozying up with a book or cup of tea. Rich fabrics and colors lend a sense of place, while neutral toned-walls and wooden accents keep things contemporary.
All suites at this luxury hotel are in the historic building with views of the city’s iconic waterway. Palace Roof Suites have a private sunken terrace overlooking the sea, which makes for a romantic alfresco dining experience.
For the ultimate family getaway, book the Atik Pasha Suite, a more than 4,000-square-foot, three-bedroom space with Bosphorus views from every room. Other extras include a kitchenette, a dining room for 10, two walk-in closets and an egg-shaped bathtub in the master suite.

The Restaurants

The Bosphorus hotel’s Aqua focuses on Mediterranean cuisine from renowned Turkish chef Savas Aydemir. Dine on dishes like fennel salad with cured ricotta and citrus vinaigrette, pan-seared black cod with spiced pea cream, and pumpkin and chestnut risotto on a picturesque terrace overlooking the bustling waterway.
The weekday breakfast buffets are great, but seasonal Sunday brunch at Aqua with live music is phenomenal. A seemingly endless spread of international and local favorites is accompanied by free-flowing mocktails and a dedicated kid’s play area ensures that everyone has a great time.
Order up fresh fish, grilled kebabs or refreshing salads poolside from The Club, open seasonally from May through October.
The sophisticated Yali Lounge just off the lobby is a stylish place to relax with a pre-dinner cocktail, afternoon tea or quick lunch. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a menu of confections like rice pudding with red berries or a locally inspired caramelized pistachio kadayif.

Amenities