Ciragan Palace Hotel Kempinski, Istanbul
In Istanbul, East meets West. The city's exotic street bazaars, heady aromas and sun-soaked climate remind you at every turning that Istanbul is a colourful gateway to Asia. It's bursting with atmosphere, history and culture, in its evocative Turkish tea-houses, striking Ottoman Empire architecture and the carpet stalls and spice shops of the Covered Bazaar. Divided in two by the Bosphorus, the tip of the peninsula is home to the city's major sights, the 6th-century Byzantine church of Aya Sofya, the tiled 400-room harem of Topkapi Palace and the stunning azure tiling of the Blue Mosque. This is a city with 3000 years of history behind it, and this impressive heritage is visible wherever you turn. For a taste of Turkish street life, don't miss the Covered Bazaar which features some 4000 stalls selling authentic Turkish rugs, leather goods and intricate gold jewellery. When night falls, enjoy the chance to savour mouthwatering meze and honey-dripped desserts, to an accompaniment of eastern-inspired song and dance.
The Ciragan Palace was once home to the last Ottoman Sultan. Located directly on the shores of the Bosphorus, this sumptuous hotel is one of the Eastern Med's best, offering the chance to step back in time to the days of Turkey's glorious past. Beautifully restored to its former splendour, the Ciragan Palace is Istanbul's most elegant address.
Hotel Information
Located on the site of the former palace of Turkey's last Ottoman Sultan, the Ciragan Palace boasts an unrivalled position overlooking the Bosphorus. It is based just 25 kilometres from Atatürk International Airport, four kilometres from the city's main business centre and close to all the major tourist sites of Istanbul.
Room Information
Blending the opulence of Ottoman Empire Turkey with all the modern comforts and facilities of a premier 5-star hotel, the Ciragan Palace comprises 315 newly renovated and air-conditioned rooms and suites. Each features all the standard facilities you'd expect of a top hotel, such as direct-dial telephone, voice mail, safety deposit box, mini-bar and TV with cable access.
Dining Experience
There is something to suit all tastes at the Ciragan Palace, and formal and informal options are available. Enjoy the opulent atmosphere of the Russian Caviar Bar which features a range of exquisite eating and drinking opportunities. Lovers of Oriental cuisine are well served at the Japanese restaurant Benihana. Furthermore, you can choose from the award-winning Tugra Restaurant of the Laledan Restaurant which serves New World cusine. A 'Sultan's Night' which takes place regularly at the hotel lets you enjoy both authentic Turkish cuisine as well as lively Turkish show, featuring Eastern music and dance.
Hotel Facilities
Benefit from all the standard facilities of a world-class hotel at the Ciragan Palace, including practical facilities such as underground garage and 24-hour room service. Extensive conference and banqueting facilities are on hand for business travellers, while guests looking to enjoy a more leisurely time at the hotel can take advantage of a range of luxurious health, fitness and beauty facilities. There is a well equipped fitness centre, with both indoor and outdoor pool, gym, Turkish bath, Hamam, jacuzzzi, sauna, solarium and massage rooms. A hairdresser and selection of shops and boutiques are also available.