Rixos Tersane Istanbul

We recommend the Rixos Tersane to travellers seeking a modern palace without abandoning Istanbul's identity, couples in their thirties and forties, anniversary trips, late honeymoons. Families appreciate the spacious rooms and supervised pool, yet the clientele remains predominantly adult, cosmopolitan, blending business and leisure. It is an address for those who want the Bosphorus without the bustle of Sultanahmet, luxury without folklore.

The building reclaims the former Taşkızak arsenals, Ottoman naval shipyards active until 2001 and listed as industrial heritage. The architect preserved the original metal structures, riveted beams and glass roofs, inserting contemporary volumes in raw concrete and glass. 4.5-metre ceiling heights in communal spaces, anthracite-grey terrazzo floors, furniture by Minotti and Poltrona Frau. The rooms occupy two lateral wings, 150 keys spread over six floors, all with private balcony or terrace.

Three tables at the Rixos Tersane: the Turk, a gastronomic restaurant led by Mehmet Gürs, offers a contemporary take on Anatolian cuisine, seven-course tasting menu. The Bosphorus Lounge serves buffet breakfast (6 am-11 am) and afternoon tea, with a selection of Turkish and French pastries. The rooftop bar, open until 1 am, mixes signature cocktails and shared mezze, with open views over both shores. 24-hour room service, reduced menu after midnight.

The Rixos Tersane stands in Camiikebir, the Beyoğlu district undergoing transformation, between Karaköy and Hasköy, on the European shore of the Golden Horn. Galata fifteen minutes on foot, Taksim ten minutes by taxi, ferry terminals 500 metres away to reach Üsküdar or the Princes' Islands. Istanbul Airport 45 kilometres away, private shuttle arranged by the hotel. The neighbourhood remains industrial by day, quiet in the evening, few restaurants nearby, we favour the hotel's tables or a taxi to Karaköy.