Overview
Here, true luxury lies in a simple detail: in Istanbul, almost every room offers a breath of fresh air. The 185 keys feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies, which truly transforms your stay in a densely populated city. Opened in 2014, Raffles Istanbul does not attempt to play the heritage card. Instead, it embraces a contemporary interpretation, designed by Emre Arolat, with a scale that is rare for the local market. You are in a grand hotel, yes, but not in an anonymous machine. The 136 rooms and 49 suites are among the most spacious in the city, according to the official listing by Cvent. It is this volume, more than the décor, that makes a difference when staying for several nights. Downstairs, the establishment unfolds several distinct rhythms: Writers Bar for its literary nod, Rocca for structured dining options, and İsokyo for pre-booked dinners. And while Istanbul is often viewed through the lens of Hagia Sophia or the Bosphorus, here it is first seen from a serene height, behind a full-width window, and then from your own balcony. This is a hotel of views, space, and well-organised service.
History & Heritage
Opened in 2014, Raffles Istanbul establishes a contemporary address within the history of a brand born in Singapore in 1887. The lineage here is as significant as the architecture.
Since its inception, Raffles has cultivated a precise idea of hospitality. Timeless elegance, attentive service, and a strong presence in leading international destinations.
The Istanbul address extends this heritage without freezing it in time. It transposes into the city the spirit of a brand whose reputation has been built on the consistency of its service.
One detail encapsulates this relationship with the past. The Heritage suites occupy former offices of some of the most influential political and military leaders of their time, including Winston Churchill.
This memory of the place adds a particular depth to the stay. It connects the diplomatic and strategic history of the site to the discreet elegance characteristic of Raffles.
Thus, the hotel does not merely belong to a grand international collection. It expresses continuity, with an address that is open to its time and attentive to the legacy left by those who came before.
Architecture & Design
The project is attributed to Emre Arolat. The official listing by Cvent mentions 185 units, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies.
The In-House Experience
The hotel comprises 185 keys, including 136 rooms and 49 suites.
The floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies define the stay experience.
Dining
The establishment boasts nine dining venues, bars, and lounges.
Writers Bar offers a setting inspired by literature, blending comfort with elegance. Lounge 6 is a rooftop pool bar dedicated to cocktails, providing stunning views of the city. Long Bar combines music, refined flavours, and signature cocktails.
İsokyo serves Asian cuisine. Reservations are required for dinner at Isokyo Restaurant and Rocca Restaurant. Rocca Restaurant offers a buffet breakfast and a three-course dinner menu.
Lavinia provides snacks and sweet treats alongside afternoon tea. Lavinia Lounge highlights the afternoon tea experience, featuring artisanal teas and coffees.
Children under the age of 12 are not permitted in the Bosphorus Lounge.
Wellness & Spa
Raffles Spa spans 3,000 square metres. It includes seven treatment suites, two of which are for couples, as well as three hammams. The spa also features an indoor pool and a fitness area.
Signature treatments include Aegean Purity, Raffles Istanbul Signature Massage, and Raffles Couples Romance.
Service & Team
On-site concierge, 24-hour room service, parking, and airport transfers are available.
Languages spoken include English, Arabic, French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish.
Check-in is at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Practical Information
- Address: Istanbul, TR - Coordinates: 41.068 / 29.0153 - Rating: 5-star hotel - Capacity: 185 keys - Details: 136 rooms and 49 suites - Accommodations: floor-to-ceiling windows; private balconies - Spa: 3,000 square metres; 7 treatment suites; 2 couples suites; 3 hammams; indoor pool - Services: concierge; 24-hour room service; parking; airport transfer - Check-in / check-out: 3:00 PM / 12:00 PM
Our Verdict
Raffles Istanbul is an urban hotel that opened in 2014, designed by Emre Arolat. It features 185 rooms and suites, several dining venues, and a 3,000 square metre spa. The rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies.