Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul

Shangri-La Bosphorus stands on the European shore in Beşiktaş, between Dolmabahçe Palace and the Naval Museum, with the ferry pier right outside. Behind the hotel, Beşiktaş is one of Istanbul's liveliest local districts, packed with fish restaurants, traditional meyhanes, student bars and tea gardens. Nişantaşı's boutiques are a short taxi ride uphill, and ferries cross to the Asian side in minutes.

The building began life as a tobacco warehouse and now takes its design cues from neighbouring Dolmabahçe Palace. A sweeping staircase descends through a domed atrium lit by a vast crystal chandelier. At the same time, an extensive collection of European and Asian art reflects Shangri-La's Asian heritage throughout the public spaces.

At 42 square metres, even the entry-level rooms are among the city's largest, and most face the water. The interiors blend Ottoman glamour with Asian detail, while marble bathrooms feature heated floors and deep tubs. Many suites have private terraces overlooking the Bosphorus, and interconnecting rooms make it easy for families to stay together.

Shang Palace is the signature restaurant, where Chinese chefs prepare refined Cantonese cuisine, from dim sum to Peking duck. IST TOO serves Turkish, Mediterranean, and Asian dishes all day, with Bosphorus views. The Lobby Lounge is known for afternoon tea, while Le Bar serves classic cocktails.

CHI, The Spa was Shangri-La's first signature spa in Europe, a calm, softly lit retreat inspired by Asian healing traditions. Treatments follow ancient Chinese philosophies of balance and harmony, and the signature CHI Balance massage uses acupressure to ease away tension. Traditional Turkish hammams add a local ritual, while a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam rooms and a well-equipped gym complete the facilities.