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Raffles Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

Raffles Istanbul

From Beşiktaş, the Bosphorus runs past the picture windows of Raffles Istanbul. The Sea of Marmara, the Princes' Islands and the old town echo one another there without ever fitting into a single view. In the Grand Lobby, crystal chandeliers and onyx pillars play up the grandeur. At İsokyo, the ingredients soak up Japanese influences. The Long Bar tucks the evening in near the strait, amid drinks and bewitching music; the Lavinia Lounge softens it over tea. Down below, three hammams, vitality pools and sensory showers give the bathing ritual the unhurried pace of a true liturgy. Sabit Akkaya also styles hair there, with an artisan's precision.

Accommodations

What we like

The cocktail

When at the bar, order the Bosphorus Sling: gin, cherry stem, pomegranate and hibiscus.

The moment

The Authentic Turkish Hammam is a must-do. Disconnect for forty-five minutes.

The gastronomy

Eighteen minutes from Turk Fatih Tutak. Book a table in advance.

Location

Address

Raffles Istanbul , Zorlu Center Besiktas

34340 Istanbul, Turkey

Airport

Istanbul Airport, forty minutes by private car

Zorlu Center

Bosphorus ten minutes away.

At a glance

Public areas: free

In room: free