Istanbul
Our Istanbul Collection
Staying in one of the hotels in Istanbul offers an ideal introduction to a city that thrives on contrast, energy and history layered over millennia. Straddling both Europe and Asia, this is a destination where continents meet and cultures intertwine, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. From the moment of arrival, there is a sense of stepping into a place that has long stood at the crossroads of civilisations.
Once known as Constantinople, the city served as the final stronghold of the Roman Empire for centuries before its dramatic fall during the Fall of Constantinople. Following its capture, it became the heart of the Ottoman Empire, shaping much of the architecture and culture that defines it today. Renamed in 1923 with the founding of modern Turkey, Istanbul has since evolved into a dynamic global city, where ancient landmarks and contemporary life exist side by side.
The historic district of Sultanahmet is home to some of the city’s most iconic sights, each within easy reach and rich in significance. Dominating the skyline is the remarkable Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece crowned by its vast dome. Originally constructed in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian, it has served as a cathedral, a mosque and now a functioning monument, reflecting the city’s layered past in its very structure.
Nearby stands the elegant Blue Mosque, famed for its striking interior adorned with thousands of blue İznik tiles. Built in the early 17th century, it remains one of the most recognisable religious buildings in the world and is notable for its six slender minarets, a feature that sets it apart architecturally. The atmosphere inside is serene and contemplative, offering a contrast to the lively squares that surround it.
A short distance away, the expansive Topkapi Palace provides a glimpse into the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans. Once the centre of imperial power, it now houses an extraordinary collection of artefacts, including intricate jewellery, finely crafted porcelain and richly detailed garments. Wandering through its courtyards and chambers reveals the scale and splendour of a bygone era.
No visit would be complete without experiencing the energy of the Grand Bazaar. One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, it feels less like a shopping destination and more like a city within a city. Entered through one of its many gates, it unfolds into a maze of covered streets lined with thousands of shops. Here, the tradition of bargaining is very much alive, with traders and visitors engaged in friendly negotiation over everything from spices and ceramics to textiles, jewellery and antiques.
Beyond these highlights, Istanbul reveals itself in layers, from bustling waterfronts along the Bosphorus to quieter neighbourhoods filled with cafés and hidden courtyards. It is a city that invites exploration at every turn, offering moments of grandeur alongside everyday scenes of local life.
Whether drawn by its history, architecture or atmosphere, a stay in Istanbul promises a rich and memorable experience, where every corner tells a story and every day brings something new to discover.