Four Seasons Hotels Istanbul Make History With Türkiye’s Only Three-Key Distinction

The Michelin guide has unveiled its prestigious Michelin key awards in Türkiye for the first time, honouring excellence in hospitality. Following a detailed evaluation process, both Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet and Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus have been recognized among Türkiye’s most exceptional hotels — with Sultanahmet awarded three Michelin keys, the highest rating in the country, and Bosphorus awarded one Michelin key.

The Michelin key distinction, a newly introduced global standard for hotels by the world-renowned Michelin guide, mirrors the spirit of the Michelin star system in restaurants. The recognition celebrates hotels that deliver exceptional experiences defined by authenticity, design, service, and emotional impact. Criteria include architectural and interior excellence, consistency, individuality, value and environmental integration. A Michelin key signifies not only superior accommodation but an extraordinary stay.

“Istanbul’s historical depth and natural beauty continually inspire us to deliver exceptional guest experiences. To see both our properties recognized by the Michelin guide, and for Sultanahmet to stand as the only hotel in Türkiye awarded three Michelin keys, is a proud moment that reflects our teams’ passion, creativity, and unwavering dedication to excellence,” commented Reto Moser, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotels Istanbul.

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic peninsula, just steps from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet stands as a symbol of the city’s enduring elegance. Originally built between 1918 and 1919, the hotel’s neoclassical architecture and refined interiors merge heritage with modern comfort, offering an atmosphere where history and luxury coexist. The hotel’s distinction as the only property in Türkiye to receive three Michelin keys underscores its unique blend of cultural authenticity, exceptional service, and timeless sophistication.

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus

Nestled along the Bosphorus in a restored 19th-century Ottoman palace, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus captures the city’s poetic duality where East meets West. With sweeping waterfront terraces, lush gardens and refined interiors, the hotel embodies timeless sophistication and offers guests one of the most enchanting perspectives of Istanbul. Its one Michelin key recognition reflects its dedication to delivering an outstanding guest experience and its mastery of elegant, contemporary hospitality along the Bosphorus.

The introduction of the Michelin key awards in Türkiye marks a defining moment for the nation’s hospitality landscape. The recognition of both Four Seasons Hotels Istanbul reaffirms the brand’s global leadership in luxury hospitality and its dedication to crafting meaningful, memorable experiences for every guest.