Hilton has unveiled the renovated Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus, completing a major upgrade of one of the city’s best-known hotels. The transformation covers all 475 guest rooms and suites, adds new dining and social venues, and refreshes more than 4,000 square metres of event space.
The historic property, first opened in 1955, remains the longest serving Hilton hotel outside the Americas. Further enhancements, including the spa, indoor pool and fitness facilities, are due to open later this summer.
Set above the Bosphorus in Istanbul’s Harbiye district, the hotel has long played a central role in the city’s social and business life. Hilton said the redesign blends the building’s mid-century heritage with contemporary interiors, upgraded technology and modern hospitality spaces.
The renovation was led by Istanbul-based design studio Autoban, which reinterpreted the hotel’s 1950s identity while preserving original architectural elements. These include the entrance canopy, handcrafted Çintemani tiles and the outdoor pool, which remains the largest hotel pool in Istanbul.
Guest rooms and suites now draw inspiration from the colours of the Bosphorus Strait and Istanbul sunrise. Materials including marble, wood, metal and leather feature throughout, while many rooms include private balconies or terraces with city and water views.
Four signature suites highlight different parts of the hotel’s history:
- Imperial Suite with a private cinema room
- Bosphorus Suite inspired by the waters below
- Presidential Suite with expansive Bosphorus views
- Ambassador Suite honouring past world leaders and cultural guests
Dining is a major part of the relaunch, with several new or refreshed venues including:
- Malva for modern Turkish fine dining
- Lalou lobby brasserie and terrace
- Arlo Mediterranean-inspired dining
- Dragon Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine
- Sazzou late-night lounge with jazz and vinyl sets
- Bosolei poolside venue inspired by the French Riviera
“Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus sits at the very heart of Conrad Hilton’s vision to spread the light and warmth of hospitality around the world,” said Simon Vincent CBE, President, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Hilton.
“As the hotel enters its next chapter, we are proud to see it thoughtfully reimagined for the future, while continuing to stand as a powerful symbol of Hilton’s long-standing commitment to Türkiye,” he added.
“Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus is one of our most iconic hotels that ties it origins to Conrad Hilton,” said Leonard Gooz, Global Brand Leader, Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
The hotel can host up to 2,500 guests across its ballrooms, gardens and 17 meeting rooms, reinforcing its position as one of Istanbul’s leading venues for events and celebrations.
Photo © 2026 Hilton
