10 Reasons you need to stay at the Raffles Hotel Istanbul right now

Snag a room (or bath!) with serious views

When we said this Raffles Hotel overlooked the Bosphorus, we meant it. Its location near the decadent Zorlu Center makes for prime shopping, but its location near the bustling Takism area really makes a stay worthwhile. Be sure to spend at least a day meandering through the modern cafes, shops, museums, and if you have questions about where to go, the hotel staff will be more than happy to help.

Learn to relax — the traditional way

The Turkish know how to relax, and the spa at the Raffles Hotel Istanbul is a lesson in luxury. Spend an hour or two in the traditional Turkish Hammam rooms, where you can request the Rose, Honey or Sugar Experience from the Organic Pharmacy within the spa.

Embrace Turkish Cuisine

For newcomers to the Turkish food scene, the Raffles Hotel Istanbul’s Rocca Restaurant is the best place to get aquainted with the spices and Mediterranean flavors. With towering chandeliers and live music at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Rocca Restaurant is sure to be one of your favorite dining experiences in Istanbul. 

Take a dip in style

Whether it’s midmorning or midday, a visit to one of the Raffle’s magnificent pools is an absolute must. The indoor pool, complete with skylights and a elegant overhead decor, ensures relaxing indoors never felt so good. 

Get inspired at the Writer’s Bar

For a quiet evening of reflection or a place to grab an intimate nightcap with your other half, the Writer’s Bar is sure to please. Open until 11 p.m., enjoy popular cocktails with a Turkish twist in a chic atmosphere. If you love cigars, inquire about their broad selection from around the world.

Champagne: a Girl’s Best Friend

If cigars and cocktails aren’t your thing, then a few tapas-inspired appetizers and a glass of bubbly may be just what the doctor ordered. Part of the Long Bar, you can opt to reserve the wine cellar at the Champagne Room for a private party or simply spend time schmoozing with the locals in the trendy bar area. 

Explore Istanbul’s star attractions

Discovering Istanbul has never been so simple. Close to the Hagia Sophia, the brilliant Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest marketplaces in the world, you will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy Turkey within easy walking distance. When you return to the hotel, take note of the hotel’s architecture — you’ll notice the same attention to detail as you did in some of Istanbul’s most notable landmarks. 

Who needs a car when you have a helipad?

Sightseeing by plane or car is so 2014, and Raffles Hotel Istanbul knows it. All guests are welcome to use their personal helipad as transportation to and from airports and select attractions within the city. It’s the perfect way to make an entrance, don’t you think?

What are you waiting for? 

With every detail meticulously scrutinized over from the architecture down to the food and opportunities to enjoy the history and culture of Istanbul at every turn, isn’t it about time you booked a room at The Raffles Hotel Istanbul?

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