Is it a real palace?

Yes. The Ciragan Palace was originally built of wood at the end of the sixteenth century. It was rebuilt in marble in 1857 and was home to the last of the Ottoman sultans. It was badly damaged by fire in 1910 and abandoned until 1986. Kempinski purchased it in 1991 and it is now the only five-star property in Istanbul on the shores of the Bosphorus.

So, plenty of famous guests?

Since our opening in 1991 we have hosted many kings, presidents, artists and famous faces, including President Clinton, Princess Margaret, Claudia Schiffer, Luciano Pavarotti and Giorgio Armani.

Any unusual requests?

There have been many, but the most memorable involves a young couple who said that the hotel's breathtaking location had inspired them to get married there and then. Within days we had made all the necessary arrangements, organised the reception and ensured their dream could come true.

What about a night out?

The most popular restaurants and by definition the hardest to book are Tike, Vogue, Korfez for seafood, Papermoon and Tugra for fine Ottoman cuisine. The hottest nightspots are Laila and Havana, and for Turkish entertainment with belly dancers, singers and a traditional banquet we have our own Sultan Night. It's very popular so I'd advise booking in advance.

And sightseeing?

The most important historical sights are located in the old town on the European side of Istanbul and no visitor should miss Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque or Aghia Sophia. Also you must visit the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market and wander the backstreets to get a real feel of the city's nerve centre. Lesser-known attractions, which I personally love, are a stroll among the beautiful old buildings of the Galata and Fener residential area and the surrounding areas of Beyoglu and Pera are extremely interesting. If possible, a performance by the whirling dervishes at Galata Mevevihanesi is unforgettable. However, as this is only held on the last Sunday of each month not everyone is lucky enough to witness it.

Kempinski reservations: 00 800 426 313 55, www.kempinski.com

Rooms at the Ciragan Palace Sea-view rooms from £250 per room in low season; from £290 in high season.