Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Went to Tugra restaurant . Have been on 2 previous occasions . Our experience yesterday was ver sub standard . The food was average and the attitude of staff was appalling .

Went for day pass at the pool. Floor of the pool needs to ve uodated renovated old slipperru tiles. Though it’s a gorgous view

Staying at this historical palace (it was an actual ottoman palace) was truly special, and I compare it to all the true 5-star chains and boutiques I’ve ever stayed at. If you like minimalism aka Aman (I don’t), this isn’t the hotel for you. If you like rich decadence (I do), this is possibly the #1 pick in Istanbul. The balcony had a picturesque Bosphorus view set behind the spectacular grounds and pool. The river is constantly buzzing with action, including the much-used hotel yachts. Housekeeping was second to none - they put your slippers out during the nightly turndown service to make you feel like an ottoman sultan of ye olde days. The room has an “ambient” light switch which immediately moves the room between bright and mood lighting, important for a room that has high-quality, layered lighting. Breakfast was included in my reservation - for most hotels, that might be just rubbery scrambled eggs or “continental” breakfast. For Ciragan, it’s a decadent buffet including all kinds of cheeses, local Turkish delicacies, desserts as well as made to order omelettes and table service. Oh, and champagne too. The only thing I’d caution is the hotel is a tourist draw in its own right, so the lobby and other areas are often packed with non-guests. At night, a few times there were people laying out by the pool/river who were clearly not staying at the hotel - I know because I could hear them loudly complain about how expensive their cab ride was from their hotel to Ciragan. It made me wonder how many people stay elsewhere and just come and louse about the Ciragan’s facilities. I’m all for controlled public access but it shouldn’t impair on the experience of hotel guests. If you ask nicely, the hotel will give you a tour of the palace. It’s a nice finishing touch to complement the major palaces (Topkapi, Dolmabahce, Beylerbi, Yildiz). When you stay at the Ciragan, you are literally consuming history.

Our stay did not start quite as expected, as our room was still not ready two hours after the official check-in time. For a hotel of this standard, this was disappointing. Once Mr. Mesut Erbas became involved, however, the situation was handled with great professionalism and care. His personal attention and approach completely changed our initial impression, and we truly appreciated the way he looked after us. From then on, our stay was wonderful. Çırağan Palace Kempinski is a truly beautiful hotel, with an exceptional location directly on the Bosphorus, a unique atmosphere and a very high level of service. The staff were courteous and welcoming, and staying in such a magnificent historic palace is a very special experience. We left with wonderful memories and will certainly return.

A gem of the Istanbul hotel industry, and even on the global map. We travel a lot, often staying in 5* LUX hotels. This one is among the best in its category, probably the most complete and truly well-managed. It has virtually no weaknesses. Want to find out why? You have to come here.