Escape to Çırağan Palace Kempinski For A Royal Retreat In Istanbul
The aptly named Çırağan Palace Kempinski gives you an opulent base from which to explore this evocative city
There are a few hotels around the world that have cemented their position not just as a place to stay at, but as a destination and symbol of the city in their own right. And if you are going to Istanbul, and are a discerning traveller, then alongside a stop at the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi museum and Hagia Sophia, on your must-do list will be a trip to the Çırağan Palace Kempinski. Unless, of course, you are lucky enough to be checking in to stay there.
This property has major bragging rights; it is the only Ottoman imperial palace that remains on the majestic Bosphorus – and has remained a major Istanbul landmark since the 17th century. Celebrity guests? There’s a crowded Wall of Fame off the grand foyer, with images of fans as diverse as Oprah, Naomi Campbell, Madonna and Justin Timberlake who’ve checked into the sprawling 310-room hotel. They all no doubt opted for one of the 11 suites in the palace section – the Royal Ottoman Suite has its own private hammam – discretely set apart from the rest of the The impressive palace is a lauded landmark in the city rooms. They probably took advantage of helicopter transfers that bypass any traffic en route to the airport. And there’s the option of a boat to head out on too.
Istanbul is a city of contrasts and the Çırağan epitomises and celebrates this dichotomy. First of all its location on the strait; you are literally at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Secondly, through its embrace of modernity – you’ll find every creature comfort you’d expect at a super-luxury property that’s just undergone a major facelift – while the site’s heritage and history is also preserved meticulously, and made a real feature of.
Gastronomy is high on the agenda here too; Tugra lives up to the grandeur of yesteryear, with chandeliers and tailcoated waiters fitting in with the space that screams of celebrations. Bellini offers favourites from the Italian portfolio of signature dishes, Akdeniz has a local accent, while all-day dining Gazebo sits alongside the lobby and overlooks the grounds.
It’s worth venturing out. The hustle and bustle of Beşiktaş is just outside, with Ortakoy, filled with bohemian boutiques and speciality restaurants, just a short stroll away. But you would of course be forgiven for luxuriating inside – after all, you’re in the primest position anyway.
For more information, visit www.kempinski.com.
Images Supplied.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s October 2024 issue.
