Istanbul Vacations for Halal Travelers
Istanbul is the perfect destination for your halal vacation. With the culture of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires built into the city, there are tons of mosques and museums to celebrate this rich history. Istanbul is also a thriving modern metropolis, and the vibrant life of the city comes out in markets, restaurants and excellent hotels. With everything that modern convenience has to offer and the deep Turkish culture to draw from, halal travelers have plenty of options to ensure an easy, luxurious and Muslim-friendly experience.
Here is a breakdown of the five best halal hotels with ladies-only hammams and private spa facilities in Istanbul, Turkey.
1. Ajwa Sultanahmet
The Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet is an exquisite example of Ottoman architecture melded seamlessly with modern luxury. This luxury hotel in Istanbul is known for being one of the most Muslim-friendly hotels in the world, making it a destination in and of itself for halal travelers. With beautiful silk Persian carpets, Sinan-inspired ceramic bathroom tiles and elegant hammam-style bathrooms, you may never want to leave the comforts of your room.
When you do venture out, spend your days exploring Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and the Hagia Sophia mosaics from Ajwa Hotel’s central location. Make sure you stop back by the hotel for the top-floor Zeferan Restaurant, with truly stunning views of the Blue Mosque and the Sea of Marmara. Zeferan has a 100% halal certified kitchen, and serves up delicious Azerbaijani dishes.
The halal facilities here are top notch, with completely private and separate hammam availability for ladies and gentlemen. The luxurious hammam experience includes the traditional Turkish bath, as well as aromatherapy and scrub services. The Afwa Sultanahmet can accommodate any halal request you may have, so be sure to call ahead for any special inquiries.
2. Ottoman’s Life Hotel Deluxe
Also in the historic district is the Ottoman’s Life Hotel Deluxe, walking distance from all of Istanbul’s cultural attractions like the Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque. With state of the art facilities, and luxury touches, the Ottoman’s Life Hotel is a treat for any guest. The traditional, Ottoman-style finishes create a light, airy atmosphere where you could stay all day in the 24-hour bar (non-alcoholic) and the Deluxe Garden (serving tea and light fair).
The Ottoman’s Life Hotel Deluxe is perfect for travelers who want low-hassle halal accommodations, because the default here is halal. No alcohol is served on the premises and all food coming out of the hotel’s kitchens is 100% halal. The private hammam includes two completely separate facilities for ladies and gentlemen’s bathing, spa and fitness.
3. Golden Tulip Istanbul Bayrampasa
The Golden Tulip Istanbul Bayrampasa is another well-appointed hotel convenient to Istanbul’s attractions with extensive Muslim-friendly resources. Located near Eyup Sultan Mosque, the hotel is about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from Istanbul’s city center and cultural attractions. The upper floors offer beautiful views of the Marmara Sea and the Istanbul city skyline. Modern conveniences like high-speed internet and a hotel shuttle service to and from the airport make this convenient for travelers of all kinds.
Halal conscious travelers can relax here, with plenty of amenities for a halal friendly stay. The on-site Montana Restaurant serves up local Turkish dishes from a 100% halal kitchen and completely alcohol-free premises. Pool and spa facilities include a traditional hammam with set hours for ladies only. The fitness center and pool are similarly available for private ladies only use.
4. Skalion Hotel & Spa
Located just steps from the Grand Bazaar, the Skalion Hotel offers beautiful water views from many of its spacious rooms. Halal travelers will love the 100% halal dishes from the hotel’s award-winning on-site restaurant, showcasing international cuisines. The property is completely alcohol free, and room service will deliver halal food directly to your room if you so choose.
The Skalion Hotel’s specialty is their luxurious Turkish hammam and spa facilities. The hammam and pool areas do have private options for ladies only, and the entire spa can be even be completely rented out for extra privacy.
5. ByOtell Hotel Istanbul
The ByOtell Hotel Istanbul is a foodie dream, with three on site dining options, all completely halal friendly and alcohol free on the premises. The Bistro Gülizar specializes in lunch with “unique tastes and a modern ambience” and the morning breakfast options at Amber offer something for everyone. The chef-lead dinner restaurant, Edwards, offers expansive dining options with an indoor dining room, outdoor dining and winter garden.
A five-star luxury resort, the ByOtell Hotel Istanbul is located in the Kozyatagi business district, known for its high-rises and excellent restaurants. This is a perfect getaway from the crowded streets of downtown Istanbul, while still being accessible to all the cultural attractions. The luxurious spa includes a traditional Turkish hammam and bathing services. The spa and hammam are available at designated times for ladies only.