W Istanbul Hotel travel guide

Location. The W Istanbul is located in the Akaretler district of Istanbul, Turkey, 300 metres from the European-style Dolmabahce Palace. The centre of modern Istanbul, Taksim Square, is one kilometre away. Kabatas metro stop is 1.5 kilometres from the hotel.

Hotel Features. This hotel is set in a mirrored tower, contrasting with the historic Akaretler Row Houses and gilded domes around it. The front desk, which operates an express check-in and check-out service, and the concierge desk both operate 24 hours with multilingual staff who can arrange transport and tours. There is wireless Internet access in public areas and a video library. Complimentary and valet parking are available. Pets are permitted at the hotel.

W Istanbul's Spice Market by Jean-Georges restaurant, with its contemporary design in dark wood, brass and stone, serves Thai and Vietnamese-inspired dishes. The hotel provides breakfast at a surcharge. Guests can sample a range of cocktails in the Living Room.

Business facilities at the hotel include eight meeting rooms and a computer rental service.

W Istanbul has fitness equipment on site and two massage treatment rooms.

Guestrooms. Decorated in a decadent Turkish style, the 134 air-conditioned and high-ceilinged guestrooms have scarlet and coffee-toned fabrics. Beds are fitted with 350-count cotton sheets and goose-down pillows. All rooms have balconies and are equipped with MP3 docking stations, satellite television, DVD players, CD players and wireless Internet access. Other amenities include oversize leather desks, direct-dial phones, safes, and minibars. Luxury extras include bathrobes and slippers. Complimentary bottled water is provided.

Expert Tip. Hagia Sophia is one of the most important pieces of Byzantine architecture in Istanbul. Designed by the architects Anthemios of Tralles and Izidorus of Miletus, the construction dates back to the year 532.