The best luxury hotel for families in Istanbul
I promise it’s worth the spoiling splurge
Straddling both sides of the Bosphorus strait, Istanbul is a glorious blend of the traditional and modern: you’ll find Byzantine relics nestling happily alongside Genoese houses, grand 16th century facades and contemporary skyscrapers, bars, museums and restaurants. A dizzying, buzzing, sprawling fusion of Eastern and Western influences, Istanbul is like nowhere else on earth.
This diversity is reflected in the interiors, food and architecture at the Four Seasons Bosphorus, a five-star resort housed in a restored Ottoman palace with historic features, panoramic Bosphorus views, and top-notch facilities that allow for maximum levels of rest and relaxation — a welcome surprise given its central city location.
Not surprisingly, the vibe here is one of understated luxury; from the splendid artworks lining the walls (most are by Turkish artists and are available to purchase) to the lofty public spaces, extensive manicured gardens and string of outdoor terraces, which add to the sense of spaciousness (a rare treat in such a big, crowded city).
What sets this hotel apart from its swanky waterfront neighbours, though, is its family oriented ethos. It is incredibly welcoming to children and takes every step to ensure families with little ones feel instantly at home. Our daughter was treated like a princess from the moment we arrived, receiving smiles, high fives and soft toys every which way she looked. I am sure other parents will understand how refreshing it is to feel so welcome as the same can’t be said for all hotels, even those which purport to be family friendly.
Rooms set in the 19th-century Ottoman palace boast soaring ceilings, plush furnishings and either views of the Bosphorus or the hotel’s lush gardens. Those in the modern building next door are equally impressive, just with lower ceilings, no period features and a friendlier price tag. Interiors throughout are light and airy, decorated in neutrals with pops of aqua, copper, gold and silver. The mahogany furniture and custom-designed fabrics with traditional Ottoman designs nod to the city’s heritage of artisan craft.
Our spacious bedroom with Bosphorus view was flanked by a large sitting room and a glorious white marble bathroom with rainfall shower, double sink and fluffy, white robes. Nestled discreetly in the corner was a changing mat, baby towel, nappy bin and pink rubber duck for bub’s bath. So so brilliant as I had forgotten all of the above.
The welcome basket filled with all the baby essentials — think nappies, wipes, shampoo, body cream, disposable changing mats — and the cosy cot with cuddly toy and soft blankets made memorable touches. As did the printed family photo, personalised notes and platter of traditional local treats.
It was clear upon arrival that this is a hotel that prioritises guest comfort and exceptional service — no detail is overlooked, meaning frazzled parents and weary travellers can settle in and relax from the off.
There are a number of outstanding restaurants to choose from, most with waterside seating options. Enjoy all-day dining, coffee and afternoon tea at Yali, traditional Turkish cuisine at Ocakbaşı and Mediterranean seafood with a Turkish twist at Aqua.
Aqua’s tuna carpaccio was too good to share, as was the gnocchi and butter poached lobster with bisque sauce. As for mains, look to the monkfish or the beef tenderloin with potato mille-feuille and black truffle. For pudding, order the rich, chocolatey creation known as the ‘avant garde’, which comes with creme anglaise, vanilla créme brûlée, hazelnut crunch and a scoop of traditional Turkish ice cream. You’ll be hard pressed to find something more delicious anywhere!
A lavish breakfast buffet is also served in Aqua until 11.30am. The Sunday Brunch, a favourite with hotel guests and locals, is standout. Expect everything from lobster, sushi and hand-made dumplings to filet steak, made-to-order-eggs and American style pancakes. Load up on savouries before dipping all manner of sweet treats into the chocolate fountain. Wash it all down with a glass of fizz or one of the hotel’s signature art-themed cocktails. When you are dining with little ones you’ll find kids’ menus, high chairs and a real enthusiasm for making young guests feel at ease despite the somewhat formal setting.
The hotel has plenty to offer in the way of activities, too. Head to the magnificent outdoor pool (only open in summer) or heated indoor pool for a refreshing dip. Those looking for a little extra pampering should beeline for the spa, where luxurious hammam treatments, facials and massages are to be enjoyed. There is also a beauty salon and fitness centre offering private personal training sessions, pregnancy pilates and yoga classes. It’s also worth checking out the seasonal programme of events, including chocolate workshops, cocktail tastings and cheese and wine evenings.
Once you’ve made the most of the fabulous facilities, hop on the hotel’s complimentary shuttle (there’s a boat transfer too in summer) to its sister resort in Sultanahmet, which has a completely different vibe. Set around a landscaped courtyard garden, the neoclassical property was originally conceived in the 1910s as a prison for intellectual dissidents (hence the working masjid and historic guard towers in the courtyard) but has served as a luxury hotel since the 1990s.
A cocktail on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, which has breathtaking views of nearby Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, comes highly recommended as does a glass of wine or cocktail in the main Lingo Lingo bar. For a round-up of other brilliant things to see, do and visit in Istanbul, read my ultimate guide to the city here. Inside, you’ll find the museums to visit, restaurants to book and quaint neighbourhoods to explore.
With such excellent facilities, a standout location and comfy, spacious rooms, the Four Seasons Bosphorus ticks all the boxes for a luxury family break in Istanbul. Is it worth the spoiling splurge? Absolutely yes.
Other things to note…
Although there is no kid’s club, babysitters can be booked on request
The hotel can organise airport transfers from IST or SAW
Day-trips and experiences in Istanbul can be booked on request
The Four Seasons Bosphorus is open all year round. Rooms start from £650