Raffles Istanbul is a five-pearl property with dramatic, art-filled interiors situated in an upscale mall and residential complex, about a 30-minute drive from the top tourist sights. Its 185 rooms and suites have floor-to-ceiling windows (many with sweeping city and water views), balconies, butler service, and tablet controls. The hotel has a serene indoor pool with an atrium and an outdoor pool with stunning views and a bar. Its eight restaurants and bars include a Michelin-starred dining room serving Catalan food, while the enormous spa offers an array of treatments. Design-centric interiors and ultra-attentive service draw well-heeled tourists and business travelers, but those seeking something closer to the top sights might want to consider the Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel -- though rooms aren't as spacious and don't come with as many amenities.

The 134-room W Istanbul delivers on all the hallmarks of the W brand: Trendy decor, excellent dining, and happening nightlife. The standard Wonderful Rooms are large and hip, with an open bathroom concept, modern technology, excellent beds, and neon pink lighting accents. The only downsides? Some rooms get noise from the upstairs lounge on party nights, and the Besiktas location -- though charming and upscale -- is far from the tourist attractions in Sultanahmet.

The Istanbul Edition is a sleek, 73-room luxury hotel located in the Levent, one of Istanbul's major business districts on the European side of the city. With two restaurants, a bar, a nightclub, and a 20,000-square-foot spa that includes an indoor pool, and a fitness center, there are plenty of opportunities for guests to dine, drink, party, entertain, relax, and exercise. Designed by Ian Schrager, guest rooms are lined in oak and rosewood, and decorated with leather chairs and cushy sofas. Sizes range from a 320-square-foot Superior Room to a 2,800-square-foot penthouse that fills an entire floor. All rooms include Bang and Olufsen flat-screen TVs, fireplaces, iPod docks, minibars, and coffeemakers. Bathrooms are lined with polished marble. While the hotel's location is convenient for business travelers, tourists might prefer the Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul, which is slightly pricier but closer to historic sights.