Ciragan Palace Hotel Kempinski
Istanbul
OVERVIEW
Imagine a grand sultan’s palace and your vision may be not unlike the Ciragan Palace Hotel Kempinski in Istanbul. The hotel is one of the city’s most important landmarks and is known as one of the best hotels in this vibrant and bustling city. The ancient palace was once the residence of the city’s ruling sultans during the exotic Ottoman era, and many of its historic features have endured the tests of time and have been preserved for your pleasure today. It is possible to visit the white marble hammam and view the enormous Murano glass chandeliers that cast light over the opulent surroundings; imported at great expense from Venice, they are one of the hotel’s most treasured artistic touches, of which it has many.
Interiors are luxe, with sumptuous fabrics and 19th century furniture, custom wool carpets of epic proportions and soaring columns. Outdoors you’ll find gently swaying palm trees and stylish gazebos embellishing the exterior, with the perfect centrepiece a tranquil infinity pool overlooking the dark ribbon of the Bosphorus.
The hotel is in a prime position for exploring this significant waterway and is ideally located for heading out into the city to explore the upscale shopping district of Nisantasi where you’ll find plenty of designer stores, or the imposing monuments of the Golden Horn.
SUMMARY
Rooms: 313
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Nearest Airport: Istanbul Airport
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast
6 Reasons to visit Ciragan Palace Hotel Kempinski
- Spectacular location on the cusp of the Bosphorus with amazing views of the city
- The hotel was once the residence of the city’s rulers and its grand style continues today
- Huge infinity-style pool overlooking the Bosphorus with plenty of loungers for relaxing
- Most of the rooms have balconies with fabulous views over the Bosphorus
- Extensive buffet breakfasts are among the best in the city with Turkish and Western food
- A short distance from the bars and restaurants of lively Orkatoy
If you’re keen to try traditional Turkish cuisine then you’re in the right place – Tugra is one of the finest Ottoman restaurants in the city. Don’t miss the chance to try the authentic lamb casserole, Testi, a rich and delicate dish made with lamb shoulder, wild mushrooms, vegetables and potatoes in a fragrant tomato sauce. The dish is baked in a handmade clay pot and served with great ceremony at your table: the lid of the clay pot is smashed with a copper hammer to release the aromas from within.
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Where to stay
Over three-quarters of the 313 rooms and suites benefit from sea views and nearly all have balconies, so you’ve got extra outdoor space from which to enjoy a Turkish coffee or watch the sunset over the Bosphorus. The array of room and suite choices is mind-boggling so it’s best to give us a call to find out which option will best suit you. For a supremely luxurious stay then consider one of the 11 VIP suites in the historic palace which offer butler service and private entrances.
If you’re keen to try traditional Turkish cuisine then you’re in the right place – Tugra is one of the finest Ottoman restaurants in the city. Don’t miss the chance to try the authentic lamb casserole, Testi, a rich and delicate dish made with lamb shoulder, wild mushrooms, vegetables and potatoes in a fragrant tomato sauce. The dish is baked in a handmade clay pot and served with great ceremony at your table: the lid of the clay pot is smashed with a copper hammer to release the aromas from within.
What to do
Go in search of Medusa by exploring the underground architecture of Basilica Cistern or take a dip in the spectacular outdoor heated infinity pool where you can absorb the incredible views of the busy Bosphorus. No visit to Istanbul would be complete without a traditional Turkish hammam so head to the hotel’s spa where you will be pampered literally from head to toe.
If you’re keen to try traditional Turkish cuisine then you’re in the right place – Tugra is one of the finest Ottoman restaurants in the city. Don’t miss the chance to try the authentic lamb casserole, Testi, a rich and delicate dish made with lamb shoulder, wild mushrooms, vegetables and potatoes in a fragrant tomato sauce. The dish is baked in a handmade clay pot and served with great ceremony at your table: the lid of the clay pot is smashed with a copper hammer to release the aromas from within.
What and Where to Eat
From lazy brunches among the gardens at Laledan Restaurant to menus evolved from 17th century recipes at Tugra, Ciragan Palace Kempinski is one of Istanbul’s most famous eating spots. For those with a sweet tooth, the hotel even has a dedicated room to create 15 different types of baklava, the Ottoman’s traditional sweet pastry.
If you’re keen to try traditional Turkish cuisine then you’re in the right place – Tugra is one of the finest Ottoman restaurants in the city. Don’t miss the chance to try the authentic lamb casserole, Testi, a rich and delicate dish made with lamb shoulder, wild mushrooms, vegetables and potatoes in a fragrant tomato sauce. The dish is baked in a handmade clay pot and served with great ceremony at your table: the lid of the clay pot is smashed with a copper hammer to release the aromas from within.
When to travel
| Month | Temp(C) |
Sun(hrs) |
Rain(mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan |
6 | 3 | 100 |
Feb |
6 | 4 | 70 |
Mar |
8 | 5 | 50 |
Apr |
12 | 6 | 60 |
May |
16 | 9 | 40 |
Jun |
22 | 11 | 30 |
Jul |
24 | 12 | 30 |
Aug |
24 | 11 | 20 |
Sep |
21 | 8 | 50 |
Oct |
16 | 6 | 60 |
Nov |
12 | 4 | 100 |
Dec |
8 | 3 | 100 |