Those of you following us on Instagram (@thegoodlifeinc) will most likely know that we recently visited the beautiful city of Istanbul in Turkey. Due to our great track record of stays at Four Seasons properties worldwide we decided to once again opt for the chain that happens to have a double presence in the city once known as Constantinople.

On our first weekend we stayed at the Four Seasons Bosphorus, a magnificent waterfront 19th Century Ottoman palace-turned-hotel. This property has an amazing resort-like feel to it due to its spaciousness, outdoor pool, and location on the Bosphorus, making it the perfect place to retreat to at night away from the hustle and bustle of a very densely populated city (Istanbul counts 14 million inhabitants).

The property also boasts a very spacious state of the art gym, sauna, turkish baths, indoor pool, various stores, and a luxurious indoor bar area amongst other facilities. But perhaps the best thing about the hotel is the peaceful outdoor breakfast with view on the Bosphorus and Asiatic side of the city.

 On the second weekend we stayed at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet, which is also located on the European side of the city but further to the south. It is a beautiful and imposing yellow building set in the small winding streets of the old city. The property used to serve as jailhouse but little of that history is still perceivable, if anything at all, as it now features a beautifully-kept garden in the courtyard, marble bathrooms and neoclassical decor.

 Our Executive Suite overlooked the inner courtyard and was very spacious and well-equipped. A stones throw from the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, this hotel is perfect for those wishing to explore the Old City and its many historic gems while still wanting to be able to take advantage of the tranquility of the courtyard and rooftop terraces.

We hope you enjoyed reading about our experience at these wonderful Four Seasons properties in Istanbul and that we've inspired you to visit this historic gem of a city!