"You either love this one or hate it. That's because in all of the deluxe rooms, each small bathroom doubles as a marble-clad mini-hamam." Full review

"Grand marble stairways, columns, Greek statues, and fountains grace the public spaces, and rooms have touches like ornate ceiling mouldings... and cushioned divans for reclining." Full review

"This is the ideal place to spoil yourself. Less authentically refurbished than some other establishments, it is, nevertheless, a refined hotel that deserves its palace title."

"This low-lying reddish-pink boutique-hotel in the heart of Old Istanbul was designed to look old in a faux-Classical style that some will like while leaving others cold." Full review

"The Sultanahmet Palace Hotel is a solid three-pearl option for travelers who want to be in the historic quarter as close to the Blue Mosque as possible." Full review

"Channels the city’s Byzantine charm and mystery with gorgeous views from almost every room and lush Turkish textiles." Full review

" With facilities catering to business travelers, families, couples, and VIPs, the 11th member of the international Raffles chain of luxury hotels has broad appeal." Full review

"All rooms feature a balcony with the best views overlooking the Bosphorus and the Princes’ Islands." Full review

"Raffles Istanbul is a five-pearl property with dramatic, art-filled interiors situated in an upscale mall and residential complex, about a 30-minute drive from the top tourist sights." Full review

"Unlike the majority of luxury hotels in Istanbul, Raffles does not pay homage to the city’s bygone Byzantine and Ottoman eras, but stands instead as a symbol of a modern, self-confident Turkey." Full review

"Opulent, ultra-mod newcomer overlooking the Bosphorus with a rooftop cinema, lavish spa and Michelin-starred chef." Full review

"Recent travelers are confident in their proclamations that the Raffles Istanbul is one of the best hotels they have ever stayed in." Full review

"Set away from central Istanbul in the shiny Zorlu Centre and the business district – but easily reached by metro – Raffles Istanbul is as stylishly modern as its sleek surroundings"

"A romantic stay at Raffles Istanbul comes with sweeping panoramic views of the Bosphorus, stylish accommodations featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies (yes, there's 24-hour butler service, too), world-class gastronomic experiences, and a spa with couples rooms and Turkish baths"

"Historical references are present, of course, especially in the artwork...every room is assigned a personal butler, and the facilities include the full luxury-hotel treatment" Full review