If you follow my journey for a while now, you would have realized that Istanbul has a special place in my heart. Thus, it was time for another visit to one of my favorite cities. This time I had the pleasure to stay at the Swissôtel the Bosphorus, a luxurious property that combines excellent service, modern design and the most amazing view of Istanbul.
Location
The Swissôtel the Bosphorus, a five-star hotel, is convenietly located on the European banks of Istanbul in the district Nisantasi – a place full of restaurants, cafés and boutiques. The hotel is situated on top of a hill overlooking the Bosphorus strait. Nearby guests can easily reach the districts Besiktas and Beyoglu as well as Dolmabahce Palace, which should be on your Istanbul bucket list. Ferries to the Asian banks depart close to the Swissôtel Istanbul, too.
Quick Overview
Upon arrival to the Swissôtel, we were warmly greeted by the doormen, our luggage was promptly taking care of and we were led into the elegant lobby full of marble that welcomes guests with a stunning view of the Bosphorus. The check in process was smooth and quick, afterwards a butler showed us a the way to our room.
The Room
We got introduced to our room for the next to nights, a deluxe suite with a view of the Bosphorus strait. The suite has floor to ceiling windows from one wall to the other, so that I immediately looked at the panoramic view in awe. So stunning!
The deluxe suite consists of a living room, a bedroom, a bathroom as well as a guest bathroom. It’s very spacious, airy and bright. Natural colors, wooden elements and tones of blue match the contemporary and sophisticated look of the room.
As expected, the suite is perfectly outfitted. It is equipped with a dining table with four chairs, a big working desk, a TV in each room, a comfy couch with a coffee table, more seating furniture in each room as well as a king bed. The hotel also took care of our well-being with a welcoming platter full of chocolates, fruits and biscuits and a box of dried fruits and nuts. Additionally, there is a Nespresso Machine, a tea making facility and a mini bar.
That modern luxury feel continues in the bathroom. The fully in marble covered bathroom features a separated toilette, a bathtub, a walk-in rain shower, complimentary amenities as well as slippers and comfy robes to complete your luxury experience.
Breakfast
Turkish breakfast is certainly one of my favorites, so I was looking forward to our first morning at the Swissôtel Istanbul. We enjoyed a buffet-style breakfast in the executive lounge on the 17th floor in an intimate and tranquil setting. Apart from the executive lounge, breakfast is being served at the restaurant SABROSA. Besides some of my Turkish favorites like cay (Turkish tea), menemen (Turkish scrambeled eggs), rose flavored jam and delicious local cheese, the hotel also offers different kinds of freshly baked breads and pastries, fresh fruits and vegetables, a selection of warm and cold dishes and an egg station, where the chef awaits your order. So all tastes and preferences are being accommodated for.
My personal highlight during breakfast each morning: the view! I could get used to having my morning cappuccino with a scenery like that. Ferries departing from Europe to Asia, seagulls passing by and you can even spot the Blue Mosque in the distance.
Service and Facilities
Something that impressed me at the Swissôtel the Bosphorus was without doubt the impeccable service and the many facilities that this luxury hotel offers its guests. The attentive staff has always a smile on their face and would help us at anytime.
The outdoor pool opened just a day prior our arrival, so that we changed into our swimsuits and took a dip immediately after check in. Snacks and drinks can be ordered by the pool and the attentive staff will provide you with complimentary water and towels. The outdoor pool is surrounded by the historical garden. Such a relaxing afternoon!
Besides the outdoor pool, the Swissôtel Istanbul also offers a saltwater indoor pool at Pürovel Spa & Sport. The large spa area is the ideal place for some downtime in the afternoon or evening. There you can find several saunas, a Turkish hammam, a jacuzzi, treatment and steam rooms and a relaxation room. A fully equipped gym can be found at Pürovel, too.
The hotel offers a variety of restaurants and bars. If you fancy a cocktail, then head to the hotel’s rooftop bar ’16 Sky’ that boosts a 360°-view of the city. SABROSA provides guests with Turkish, Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, Swiss dining can be experienced at Chalet, while Gabro Resto-Bar prides itself with serving the best specialities from all over the world. Some light snacks and refreshments can be enjoyed in the lobby area.
Guests of an executive room are able to spend their evening at the executive lounge on the 17th floor. Some local specialities and alcoholic beverages can be consumed free of charge while watching the sunset in Istanbul. It cannot get more magical than that.
Whether you’re traveling for business, are a couple discovering Istanbul for the first time or are a family with kids, the Swissôtel Istanbul will suit your purpose while convincing you with their convenient location and top-notch service. Book a room at Swissôtel the Bosphorus, if you’re looking for a blend of Swiss and Turkish hospitality, a vast offering of facilities and a luxurious setting. You will fall a little bit more in love with Istanbul after staying at the Swissôtel.
Thank you to Swissôtel the Bosphorus for hosting me! The opinions expressed on this blog and the photos are as always my own.