Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul, Istanbul

Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul - A 5-star waterfront hotel with Asian-inspired design, Bosphorus views, and Cantonese dining

Located on the European shores of the Bosphorus strait in a 1930s building, this luxury Istanbul hotel features 186 rooms and suites with marble bathrooms and heated floors. The property houses CHI Spa containing private treatment suites, an indoor heated swimming pool, and a separate children's pool. The signature restaurant Shang Palace serves authentic Cantonese cuisine paired with Turkish wines selected by a Mimolett-trained sommelier. Situated in Beşiktaş, the hotel sits a 10-minute drive from Sultanahmet and a 15-minute walk from Dolmabahçe Palace. The Maritime Museum and Palace Collections Museum border the property, while designer boutiques and trendy restaurants populate nearby Akaretler. Historical Kadıköy ferries depart from the pier directly in front of Shangri-La.

Pros

Double-height windows unlock views of Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden's Tower and the Old City

CHI Spa offers treatments based on centuries-old Turkish and Asian healing methods

The Lobby Lounge serves over 100 types of Chinese teas with Kung-Fu Tea Master performances

Located between the Maritime Museum and Palace Collections Museum in the lively Beşiktaş district

Cons

25 miles distance from Sabiha Gokcen International Airport

Rooms on the rear side of the hotel face the street rather than the Bosphorus