Photography: Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Istanbul is a unique combination of mystical, ancient city and swinging modern metropolis. It’s no surprise that so many return time and again – yours truly among them – to this enchanting, cosmopolitan locale.

A visit to the famed Hagia Sofia with its soaring dome and massive Byzantine design will leave you spellbound. The iconic Blue Mosque with six minarets and blue tiles is a sight to behold. Enhancing the aura of mystery and glamour is Topkapi Palace with its lustrous jewel collection and a tented 550-year old Grand Bazaar with thousands of booths selling everything from rugs, fabrics, shawls and ceramics to gold jewelry. This magical city also offers a happening art scene, fashionable boutiques, elevated cuisine, famed nightlife and the beautiful Bosphorus.

I can’t think of a better place to park your-self while exploring the city than the legendary 5-star Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul - the only Ottoman Palace set right on the Bosphorus with oh so fetching views. Discerning travelers have long visited this iconic Ottoman Imperial Palace and Hotel with its splendid architecture, illustrious history and rich cultural heritage. Not to mention the gorgeously manicured grounds and coveted out-door heated infinity pool. This former residence of the last Ottoman Sultans features both a resplendent Ottoman Palace with opulent suites, an untouched historical treasure, and an ultra luxurious grand hotel that recently underwent an extensive redesign.

The Re-Vamp

Lobby

The renovation includes an impressive redo in the hotel entrance, lobby, rooms, suites and spa plus two new restaurants, with meticulous attention to every detail to authentically reflect the history of the Ottoman Palace. The moment you step into the lobby, a view of the gleaming Blue Bosphorus awaits. Murano-inspired chandeliers; a dome-shaped ceiling; marble ornamental fountain; 16th- and 17th-century style Iznik ceramics and plush seating areas create an inviting, regal ambiance.

Hotel Room and Suites

Restyled rooms and suites in color schemes of rich burgundy and navy blue artfully combine the finest elements of Ottoman heritage with glamorous modern flair. Here you’ll find mother of pearl furniture, bed headboards adorned with tulips and fabrics used in Ottoman art, armchairs inspired by the Ottoman marbling art, lavish marble bathrooms reflecting the Turkish Bath tradition and rare decorative objects that all complement the nobility of the Ciragan Palace. And the charming balconies with seated areas overlooking the Bosphorus are sublime.

The Palace

The posh Palace wing with 11 sumptuously decorated suites where celebrities and royalty stay, offers the utmost privacy with separate entrances, dedicated 24-hour butler service and exquisite amenities. The grandiose 4,930 square feet Sultan Suite where Daniel Craig, Bono, Sting, Prince Charles, Madonna and Oprah Winfrey have been guests, features panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

Dining

Akdeniz, the new stylish Mediterranean eatery by Esra Muslu, one of Turkey’s most successful female chefs, brings creative touches to Turkish cuisine. The restaurant features an elaborate breakfast with melt in your mouth Turkish pastries, and an array of fish, cheese, meat and made to order eggs along with water views – Dinner here is also impressive with chef’s delectable dishes. Gazebo, the other dining addition with design inspired by the Ottoman Gardens, offers an all day dining experience with tasty international specialties plus an outstanding afternoon high tea. Gazebo is a prime venue to see and be seen -don’t forget your most fashionable sunglasses.

Bellini

How could a restaurant named ‘Bellini’ be anything but fabulous, and it is. Located at the Palace with stunning décor in shades of azure blue, the charming eatery has a scenic terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. Sicilian chef Giovanni Vaccaro serves up scrumptious homemade pastas and superb Italian cuisine. Dishes include tastiest king prawns and tomatoes with sautéed zucchini, seafood ravioli, raviolini with black truffles and artichokes; and grilled red fine tuna, eggplant parmigiana accompanied by, of course - Bellinis and Negronis!

Turga

Turga, the Çırağan Palace’s acclaimed fine dining - Michelin recommended gem, delivers a world –class gastronomic experience in an elegant setting. Guests savor outstanding Ottoman dishes with modern touches that are artfully presented and flavorful. Some of the many culinary delights include cooked to perfection lamb kusleme/ beetroot couscous/Aegean kale herb, canakkale lobster/fennel puree, and Black Sea Turbot/cherry puree, ginger sauce. Dining alfresco, the starry sky above, the storied waterway below, was so romantic - the perfect spot for the young man at the next table to get down on his knee and surprise the lady with a sparkling ring. (she accepted )

The Ciragan Palace makes a great locale for weddings, celebrations and corporate events with its grand waterfront terrace and spectacular backdrop

Spa

Treat yourself to some well deserved pampering at the newly redesigned spa and wellness center, managed by Sanitas Spa & Wellness. This swanky healing haven features a full menu of indulgent massages, body treatments, facials using the latest technology, Asian therapies and Turkish Bath rituals including the private VIP Turkish bath. The luxurious Hammam experience will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed with skin as soft as a baby.

Sitting on my terrace, taking in the extraordinary beauty as the yachts and ferries glided on the glittering Bosphorus, the words of French author Alphonse Lamartinein came to mind. “If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul.”

How To Go

Turkish Airlines offers direct flights from major US cities to Istanbul. The award -winning carrier is known for its great-value business-class where travelers receive warm Turkish hospitality, seamless service and top amenities. Business Class features spacious seats that turn into comfy lie flat beds, free WIFI, Lanvin travel kits, an excellent entertainment system and fine dining with their famed onboard ‘Flying Chefs’. My gourmet meal started with a selection of tasty meze followed by delicious lamb accompanied with fine wine, then a trolley of desserts. Turkish Airlines flagship lounge in the new Istanbul Airport is like a 5-star hotel featuring a diverse array of dining options, sweet Turkish delights, beverages aplenty, work facilities, piano performances, a golf simulater to practice your swing and my favorite – complimentary massage therapist.

Escape To Istanbul’s Legendary Palace On The Bosphorus

The Re-Vamp

The Palace

Dining

Spa

How To Go

BELLA Media + Co.

Escape To Istanbul’s Legendary Palace On The Bosphorus

The Re-Vamp

The Palace

Dining

Spa

How To Go

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