Istanbul is a buzzing city, and the frantic pace may leave you wanting a well-earned rest. In a city as attractive as this, getting around all the sights can be a demanding experience, and after spending a few hours on your feet you’ll appreciate the chance for a break.
One of the most typical things you can do in Istanbul is visit a Turkish bath. They’re the Ottoman version of ancient Roman baths, combining cleansing of the body with relaxation and fulfilling an important cultural role. Many also offer specialist treatments. In a Barceló spa, you’ll find the peace you’re looking for along with an ample selection of tailored services. Why not treat yourself during your trip to the ‘pearl of the Bosphorus’.
Wellness and Fitness Centre in the Barceló Istanbul
Our list of Barceló spas kicks off with the elegant facility in the Barceló Istanbul. The hotel is in an exclusive location in the heart of the city, very near the busy Taksim Square. It’s the perfect base from which to explore the city’s hidden treasures. The Galata Tower is very close by, as is the famous Istiklal Avenue, meaning there are tonnes of eateries and shops nearby. The hotel provides modern and comfortable rooms and suites, some of which have access to a private hammam. Enjoy dinner in the B-Heaven Roof Top Lounge accompanied by fantastic views of the city to put the finishing touch to a wonderful evening.
When it comes to looking after your body, you have plenty of options to choose from. The hotel has a large solarium complete with two hydro massage pools. In the huge Wellness and Fitness Centre, all of the services on offer are geared towards health and wellbeing, and the eleventh-floor location means the views are second to none.
The facilities include two saunas, a steam bath, two Turkish hammams and a Roman hammam, as well as four individual massage rooms and another for couples.
There’s also a fully equipped gym, in case you want to exercise before kicking back in the spa. You can distract yourself with panoramic views of Istanbul while you work out.
Spa and Wellness Centre in the Occidental Pera Istanbul
This design hotel is perfectly located for discovering the trendy Beyoğlu district. Taksim Square is just a stone’s throw away and you can walk to Galata Bridge in 20 minutes.
The hotel building – a beautiful French construction from the 19th century – will stop you in your tracks before you’re even through the door. It’s now a sophisticated and fashionable hotel establishment that’s lost none of its original charm. Enjoy a sundowner in the rooftop Sky Bar, and when you’re hungry head down to the Palma restaurant to sample some delicious Mediterranean-style dishes.
In the alluring Wellness Centre you can enjoy some proper relaxation for mind and body in the fully-equipped facility offering a range of personalised treatment options.
The spa circuit includes a Turkish bath, hydro massage pool, sauna and a large heated pool. A massage might be just the thing after a packed day of sight-seeing, and the aromas of incense and eucalyptus will help your mind let go of the stresses of the day.
Wellness & Spa Centre in the Occidental Taksim
This third and final hotel in the list of Barceló spas is in a similar location, in the heart of the Beyoğlu district. It’s just a few minutes from Taksim Square and very near such famous monuments as the Dolmabahçe Palace.
The Occidental Taksim is a modern, urban hotel and a great choice for families and couples alike. At Barceló, we understand how important it is to recharge your energy levels before taking on a new day an Istanbul. That’s why our hotel has two restaurants serving the freshest food in the city. The breakfast of seasonal, organic produce is to die for.
The hotel is designed around comfort and enjoyment and the Wellness & Spa Centre is at the heart of it all. Everything about it is conducive to rest and relaxation.
There’s a traditional Turkish bath split into various different areas, each at a different temperature, and the marble interior helps hold the heat. Among the treatment options are an exfoliating wash and various massages. Bear in mind that Turkish massages may be stronger than what you’re used to.
The centre also has a sauna, a magnificent indoor pool and a gym for those needing to blow off some steam before switching into relaxation mode.
Which of these Barceló spas in Istanbul takes your fancy?
