THERE are plenty of hotels to choose from in Istanbul ranging from budget accommodation up to five-star deluxe.
In Taksim, the main centre of the new city, is The Marmara Taksim, a deluxe five-star hotel for both business and leisure traveller.
The property is at the centre of the business, shopping, theatre and entertainment districts in the heart of Istanbul, Taksim Square. It has 376 rooms including 82 club rooms, decorated in classic contemporary style with art nouveau accents, and suites.
The hotel also has The Marmara Spa and The Marmara Gym which offer a broad range of facilities.
At the street level there are two cafes, including a Starbucks, offering a great spot to watch the world go by in this busy square.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet has been created from a century-old neo-classic Turkish prison. Its interiors and decoration pay homage to the city’s rich Ottoman heritage and it is located a short walk from most of the main sights.
With only 65 guest rooms and suites set around a tranquil sunny courtyard, this quaint, hotel offers a comfortable and warm atmosphere.
All the rooms feature the latest technology and the Presidential Suites have terraces leading from the living room and bedroom with views of Istanbul.
The property is undergoing soft refurbishment, as well as adding on an additional wing.
Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosphorus combines a 19th century Ottoman palace with contemporary design and elegance, the hotel has a panoramic view of the busy waterway and the green hills on the Asian shores from its 190-m waterfront terrace. It is also within walking distance of many designer stores and advant-garde galleries.
Four Seasons Instanbul at the Bosphorus has 170 guest rooms and suites occupying the original palace building and two new wings.
In addition, a 2,100-sq-m spa has three hammams, nine treatment rooms and a VIP spa suite.