Fairmont Quasar Istanbul Hotel

A 41-story luxury tower might not be what first springs to mind when you picture Istanbul — nor, indeed, the word “quasar” — but why not? This city, despite the depth of its history, is as modern as any other major metropolis, and the Fairmont Quasar Istanbul, in the Mecidiyeköy business district, is the very picture of the modern luxury hotel, from its sleek and eclectic rooms and suites to its wide-ranging selection of upscale restaurants and bars.

The views are like nothing else in town, thanks to the fact that the Fairmont Quasar towers over what is still largely a low-rise city. And the rooms and suites are offered with an only-in-Turkey option: in addition to your rain shower you’ll have either a freestanding tub or an en-suite hammam. Otherwise, the interior style is mostly modern-luxe, with some subtle gestures at localization — the result is impressive but still thoroughly tasteful.

A substantial Fairmont Spa is among the services, while the restaurants and bars span an impressive range — from the modern-Turkish Aila to Ukiyo’s Pop-up Sushi Corner, plus the elegant Marble Bar with its exhaustive selection of wines, cocktails, and light bites.