I have one word for this place. Wow! Just Wow!
The Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge at Istanbul Airport is widely regarded as one of the most luxurious and well-equipped lounges in the world. I can see why.
Designed to offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of Turkish hospitality, this lounge is a haven for travellers looking to relax before their flights. Whether you’re on a long layover or just need a break before your next journey, the lounge provides a range of amenities that cater to every need. It is that stunning, you won’t stop walking around to explore all of its spaces.
Having used this lounge for the second time recently, I can confidently say that it continues to blow me away. It is truly one of the best lounges in the world, showcasing the essence of Turkish culture, hospitality, and culinary excellence.
Location and Access
The Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge is located in the international terminal of Istanbul Airport. The lounge is easily accessible from the main departure area, and signs throughout the airport will guide you to its entrance.
Access to the lounge is granted to passengers flying in business class with Turkish Airlines, (which is a treat in itself especially on board the A350 900) as well as to select members of frequent flyer programs such as Star Alliance.
Passengers travelling business class on a star alliance member may also have access to this lounge.
I recently accessed the lounge while flying with Singapore Airlines A350-900 from Istanbul to Singapore, as Singapore Airlines is part of the Star Alliance network. I had a good number of KrisFlyer points and transferred a small amount of Velocity Points to seal the deal. I was also lucky to have my luggage transferred straight through to Melbourne. I didn’t have to recheck my bags on my connecting flight.
Design and Atmosphere
The first thing you’ll notice when you enter the Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge is its modern and elegant design. The lounge is spacious with a number of spaces and the Turkish textiles create a warm and inviting atmosphere. As you enter, you are greeted by a self-playing piano, setting a sophisticated tone for your visit.
The lounge is divided into several sections, each offering a different experience. Whether you want to relax in a quiet corner, enjoy a meal, or catch up on work, there’s a space designed to meet your needs.
The well-thought-out spaces, combined with the warm color decor, create an environment that is both comfortable and visually appealing.
The creative design of the lounge adds to its charm, making it a place you’ll want to return to time and time again.
Dining Experience
One of the standout features of the Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge is its dining options. The lounge offers a wide variety of food, ranging from traditional Turkish dishes to international cuisine. There are several food stations throughout the lounge, where chefs prepare meals fresh on the spot. The food is exquisite, and there are a few must-try dishes that I highly recommend.
One of my favorites is the gozleme, a traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients, made in-house by traditional Turkish women. Watching them prepare the gozleme with such skill and care is a treat in itself. Another dish that stands out is their lentil soup. It’s rich, flavorful, and unlike any lentil soup I’ve tasted before—truly out of this world.
For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert section is a must-visit. The range of sweets is divine, especially when paired with coffee made by the lounge’s skilled baristas. Unlike the emirates lounge in Melbourne and the rest of the world, the Turkish Airlines lounge have baristas serving up some of the best lattes and cappuccinos i have had. They certainly got this part right. If you opt for the traditional Turkish coffee, no problem. They have you covered on all front. Turkish coffee is known for its strong, bold flavour, and it pairs perfectly with the selection of traditional Turkish sweets like baklava.
The lounge excels in providing a culinary experience that is both authentic and satisfying.
Entertainment and Facilities
The Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge is equipped with a variety of entertainment options to keep you occupied during your stay. There is a cinema room where you can watch the latest movies, as well as a library with a selection of books and magazines. For those who want to stay connected, there are numerous charging stations and free Wi-Fi available throughout the lounge.
If you’re looking to relax, the lounge also offers private day rooms, a spa area with showers and massage services. There’s even a golf simulator where you can practice your swing. If you are travelling with kids there is a kids’ play area to keep younger travelers entertained. The lounge also features quiet rooms where you can take a nap if you need some rest before your flight.
Business Facilities
For business travelers, the lounge is equipped with several workstations and meeting rooms. There are computers available for use, as well as printers and other office equipment.
The lounge also offers free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected and get some work done while you wait for your flight. The seating in the business area is comfortable, with plenty of space to spread out and work in peace.
Customer Service
The staff at the Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge are known for their excellent customer service. From the moment you enter the lounge, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile and offered assistance with anything you need. The staff are attentive and always on hand to help with any requests, whether it’s arranging a shower, booking a massage, or providing information about your flight.
Summing Up
The Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge at Istanbul Airport is more than just a place to wait for your flight—it’s a destination in itself. With its luxurious design, extensive dining options, and range of entertainment and business facilities, the lounge offers everything you need to relax and recharge before your journey.
In summary, the Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge is a perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience, making it a top choice for business class travellers flying through Istanbul Airport.
After my recent experiences, I would go so far as to say that I would select a Star Alliance partner that flies through Istanbul just to get to experience this lounge all over again. In fact I had two perfect lounges on this journey, starting with the new Aegean lounge in Athens in the morning and finishing up at the Turkish Lounge in Istanbul at lunch time. Both such rich cultural experiences.
And if you have mastered the frequent flyer points game and have managed lounges and business or first class cabins for free, then you would appreciate that this is the most rewarding part.
Safe travels!
