Soak Up Some Royal Splendour At The Çırağan Palace Kempinski This Summer
A weekend break at The Çırağan Palace Kempinski is the ideal getaway for those seeking to unwind in style
There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to a weekend getaway. A short journey. Brilliant weather. Bountiful, delicious cuisine. A spa that’ll ease the stress of daily life. Beds with a high thread count in sprawling suites.
Beautiful views. A desire for comfort and opulence that far exceeds that which you have at home. The Çırağan Palace Kempinski, a 17 century Imperial stalwart turned luxury hotel, perched on the Bosphorus, fulfils the majesty, with picturesque, historic Istanbul providing the perfect host city.
Immediate clues as to the luxury of the property abound – you’ll spot chic fellow guests taking a traditional three-tiered afternoon tea at the Gazebo, posing by the glistening infinity pool that seemingly spills into the waterway, and enjoying signature cocktails at C Bar. Head to the latter, a local hotspot, for stunning sunsets at golden hour, before the DJ turns a leisurely aperitivo at the al fresco venue on the Bosporus into a bit of a party.
You know a restaurant raises the bar when residents as well as tourists cite it as a favourite. Chef Emre Inanir ensures diners at award-winning Tugra recognise traditional flavours prevalent in Turkish recipes, but gives them his own innovative, haute cuisine accent. His elevated take on herb-stuffed borek and seabass in zucchini flowers have taken on mythical status. Opt for the multi-course degustation menu to savour all the highlights this kitchen conjures up. The fact that its all served in a bit of a party. grand setting – think marble, crystal chandeliers, soaring You know a restaurant raises the bar when ceilings and rich fabrics – makes it even more special.
Another option to satiate your gourmet desires? Just Chef Emre Inanir ensures diners at award- steps away from the Strait sits the more casual Bosphorus winning Tuğra recognise traditional flavours Grill. Its menu will tick off any cravings but the doner prevalent in Turkish recipes, but gives them kebab is a must-try, with your choice of meat served with a his own innovative, haute cuisine accent. His plethora of sides, salads, dips and bread to create your very elevated take on herb-stuffed borek and own feast.
Türkiye is known for its feasts, but it is also known for its mythical status. Opt for the multi-course degustation menu to savour all the highlights hammams – the ultimate in pampering. And the Çırağan‘s Sanitas Spa exceeds expectations. From a cabana massage that takes place outdoors by the water, to the lavish Shehrazad hammam that ends with a luxurious soak in a scented bath, this tranquil space is justifiably famous. For those wanting to invest more time in their wellbeing, there are tailored wellness packages too.
It’s just a four-hour flight away – ideal for long weekends — which is why there’s no excuse not to up the ante when it comes to a quick escape, and check into the Çırağan this summer.
For more information visit kempinski.com.
All Imagery Supplied
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia July/ August 2025 Issue