About Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
Çırağan Palace Kempinski sits on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Beşiktaş. The hotel combines the restored 19th-century palace, built for Sultan Abdülaziz, with a modern wing, and has about 310 rooms and suites. Kempinski has run it since 1991.
What sets it apart is its waterfront setting: the heated outdoor infinity pool sits right on the Bosphorus, and the seafront garden runs along the shore. It suits couples, luxury travelers and anyone who wants a classic palace stay with water views.
At a glance
Highlights
- 19th-century Ottoman palace
- Infinity pool on the Bosphorus
- Ottoman cuisine at Tuğra
- Afternoon tea at Gazebo
- Next to Yıldız Park
Amenities
Rooms and suites
- Most rooms are in the modern wing, and many face the Bosphorus
- Rooms in the modern wing have balconies over the water or the park
- Suites in the historic palace, with butler service
- The Sultan’s Suite, the hotel’s largest suite
Restaurants and bars
The hotel is not all-inclusive. Meals and drinks are paid as you go.
- Tuğra: Ottoman and Turkish dishes based on recipes from the palace archives
- Rüya Istanbul: Anatolian cuisine, the hotel’s newest restaurant
- Bellini: Italian cuisine in the historic palace
- Gazebo: the hotel’s signature afternoon tea
- Le Fumoir: garden bar for cocktails
Beach, pools and spa
There is no beach. The heated outdoor infinity pool sits at the water’s edge, and there is also an indoor pool and a children’s pool, plus a poolside bar. The Sanitas Spa offers Turkish bath rituals in a hammam, a sauna, a steam room and massages.
Activities and entertainment
Guests can walk the seafront garden or visit Yıldız Park, the old royal garden behind the hotel. Boat trips on the Bosphorus are easy to arrange from this part of the city, and Ortaköy and Beşiktaş are close by.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: couples, honeymooners and luxury travelers who want a palace setting on the Bosphorus.
- Consider another resort if: you want to walk to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The old city is a drive away.
Getting there from Istanbul Airport
Istanbul Airport (IST) is about 45 to 60 minutes away by car, depending on traffic. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), on the Asian side, is also about an hour away. The hotel does not offer an airport shuttle.
Book a private transfer in advance so a driver meets you at arrivals and takes you straight to the hotel.
Good to know
- Parking is charged
- Small dogs and cats are welcome
- Children are welcome, and there is a children’s pool
- Guests under 18 are not allowed in the spa
Location of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
FAQ about Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
Is Çırağan Palace Kempinski all-inclusive?
No. Meals and drinks are paid as you go.
How far is Istanbul Airport?
About 45 to 60 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Does the hotel have an airport shuttle?
No. Book a private transfer in advance.
Does the hotel have a pool?
Yes. It has a heated outdoor infinity pool on the Bosphorus, an indoor pool and a children's pool.
Is there a spa?
Yes. The Sanitas Spa has a hammam, a sauna and a steam room.
Is the hotel in a real palace?
Yes. It includes the restored 19th-century Çırağan Palace, built for Sultan Abdülaziz.
Which area is the hotel in?
Beşiktaş, on the European shore of the Bosphorus.
Are children welcome?
Yes. There is a children's pool, but guests under 18 cannot use the spa.
Are pets allowed?
Yes. Small dogs and cats are welcome.
Is parking free?
No. Parking is charged.
