Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul

Swissôtel sits on a hill above Dolmabahçe, surrounded by extensive gardens that were once part of the palace grounds. Dolmabahçe Palace and the Beşiktaş waterfront are about a kilometre downhill, and Nişantaşı's boutiques, cafés, and restaurants are a pleasant walk away. Maçka Park is on the doorstep, and Taksim and the Old City are an easy taxi ride.

Designer Khuan Chew shaped the interiors, blending Swiss precision and simplicity with Turkish warmth. The gardens are the hotel's great luxury, a rare expanse of green in the heart of the city, with terraces and lawns overlooking the Bosphorus.

Generous rooms, from 38 square metres, feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Bosphorus or the gardens, plus a work desk and a comfortable seating area. The corner suites offer some of the hotel's finest views.

16 Roof is the hotel's showpiece, a sleek rooftop bar and restaurant with DJ sets and far-reaching Bosphorus views. Sabrosa blends Turkish and Peruvian flavours and is known for its weekend brunch, while the Chalet, a 120-year-old Alpine hut brought from the Swiss mountains, serves fondue and raclette in the gardens. Madhu's brings acclaimed Indian cooking, and in summer, Oasis offers poolside dining and cocktails.

Pürovel Spa & Sport is one of Istanbul's largest spas, an Alpine-inspired retreat set among landscaped gardens overlooking the Bosphorus. Two Turkish hammams with a modern twist sit alongside indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna and steam bath, relaxation lounges and couples' suites, while Pilates studios and personal training complete a wellness offer few city hotels can match.