It seems fitting that one of Istanbul’s most extravagant hotels is set in one of its most ornate palaces. The Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul Hotel is a masterpiece of early 20th century architecture, with soaring ceilings, chandeliers and gilded columns throughout. In fact, the hotel is so grand that you might think you have stepped back in time, to the days when sultans and pashas resided here. To stand out amid this level of opulence—not to mention such high competition—requires a unique selling point, which the Ciragan Palace certainly has. It is one of very few hotels on the Bosphorus that lets guests take advantage of a private wharf for water taxi excursions and stunning views from the rooftop garden. These privileges ensure it remains an exceptional boutique hotel that’s perfect for special occasions or bucket list vacations.
Awards and Recognition
The Ciragan Palace has been recognized as one of the world’s best hotels by various publications, including Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and the World Travel Awards. It has also won the Outstanding Achievement Award from the International Hotel Awards and the World Travel Award for Best Luxury Hotel in Turkey. The hotel has also been recognized for its art and cultural exhibitions, which have included the works of Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró, and its extensive collection of Ottoman and Turkish artifacts and artwork.
Best season to visit
The Ciragan Palace is located near the Bosphorus, which is a waterway that runs through the center of Istanbul. This location means that the weather is generally moderate throughout the year, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The best time to visit the city is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and fewer tourists are in town. The summer months are extremely hot and humid, while the winter months are freezing cold, with snowstorms and below freezing temperatures.
Rooms & Services Available
Location and accommodation
The Ciragan Palace is located in the Besiktas neighborhood of Istanbul, just across the Bosphorus Strait from the Asian side of the city. The hotel spans the first two floors of the Ciragan Palace building and boasts 38 rooms and suites. The majority of rooms are decorated with ornate gold accents, antique furnishings and hand-carved wooden floors. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including luxury suites and deluxe rooms. The hotel also has a few special amenities designed for couples or honeymooners, including a private terrace and a “Love Boat” cruise.
The Ciragan Palace experience
The Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is a truly one-of-a-kind hotel, offering guests a truly unique experience. This is due in large part to the hotel’s location on the Bosphorus Strait, which provides guests with views of both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul. The hotel also offers access to a private wharf and water taxis that shuttle guests across the Strait and provide opportunities for unparalleled views of the city. The Ciragan Palace’s enviable location and waterfront views are also highlighted by the hotel’s rooftop garden. This lush green space allows guests to enjoy al fresco dining in the summer months and is decorated with chandeliers and ornate fountains that reflect the dazzling lights of nearby buildings.
Food and drink at Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
The Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul Restaurant is a dining experience like no other. The restaurant’s signature Ottoman-Turkish dishes are prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients and are served in ornate, traditional pots and bowls. The Ottoman Turkish desserts are some of the best in the city. The Ciragan Palace also offers a selection of international cuisine, including French, Indian and Italian dishes. Guests can sip on a cocktail at the hotel’s bar or order a selection of wines or spirits. The hotel has a coffee shop, bakery and patisserie, where guests can grab breakfast and coffee to go. The hotel also offers a selection of snacks and light bites, including sandwiches, salads and soups.
Spa, Fitness and Activities
The Ciragan Palace includes several amenities that make it a great choice for travelers who want to stay active during their vacation. The hotel has a fitness center that features yoga, Pilates and other classes taught by certified instructors. The hotel also has a spa featuring a variety of services, including massages, facials, acupuncture, Ayurvedic treatments, crystal therapy, reiki and shiatsu. The spa also has a heated swimming pool and a whirlpool bath. The hotel hosts a variety of cultural and social events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, fashion shows and lectures on Turkish culture and art. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s private wharf and use the water taxis to explore both sides of the Bosphorus.
Pros and Cons
The Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a truly unique and luxurious experience. The hotel’s private wharf and water taxis make it the perfect place for water adventures and city tours, and the rooftop garden provides a stunning setting for special occasions or romantic getaways. The hotel’s location is also a major advantage, as it’s near many of Istanbul’s main attractions, shopping areas and restaurants. On the downside, the Ciragan Palace is one of the more expensive hotels in the city. The hotel also requires guests to pay extra for toiletries and parking.
Bottom line
The Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is an exceptional boutique hotel that’s perfect for travelers seeking a truly unique experience. The hotel’s location on the Bosphorus Strait, private wharf and water taxis make it the perfect place for water adventures, while the rooftop garden provides a stunning setting for special occasions. It is a very luxurious hotel, so it comes with high-end amenities and extra services, but these are worth it if you want to experience something truly spectacular. Keep in mind that this hotel is not on the Asian side of Istanbul, so it’s not a good option for travelers who want to spend time exploring the cities on the other side of the Bosphorus.
