The Bank Hotel – Istanbul, Turkey
Formerly the Ottoman Bank, this handsome Beaux-Arts building has been meticulously transformed into a slick boutique retreat. Most of the original features have been kept – even down to typewriters and cash registers on show, and the bank vaults are now a well-stocked wine cellar. It’s located in one of Istanbul’s most fashionable districts, close to the waterfront, and a short walk from many of the city’s main attractions.
Elegant interiors, sophisticated décor and faultless service make the Bank Hotel the perfect retreat in this historic city. And there’s nowhere better to see it than from the rooftop bar.
At A Glance
Luxury Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its delightful rooftop terrace and bar with mesmerizing views out over Istanbul’s unforgettable skyline.Style:
Historic city luxe.Location:
In the historic and fashionable Karaköy district.Rooms:
Slick, stylish and airy rooms and suites, with marble bathrooms and street or Bosphorus views.Children:
The hotel is very family friendly, but with no specific facilities.Accessibility:
There are no adapted rooms for guests with limited mobility.Open From:
All year round.rooms
Decorated in rich, organic colours, with parquet floors, high patterned ceilings, tall windows and sultry lighting, the rooms and suites are relaxing sanctuaries. Many look out over Karaköy Street, whilst others (mainly the suites) look out across the water. Classic Rooms are cosy and comfortable, with a king size bed. Slightly larger are the Superior King Rooms, and larger still, the Deluxe Twin Rooms. The split level elegantly designed Duplex Suites can sleep a couple and a child, and feature a kitchenette.
For a comfortable living area, and period features including a marble fireplace, the Executive Suites offer a luxurious city bolt hole. The best views in the house are undoubtedly from the windows, terrace and bathroom of the Penthouse Suite.
food
Serica Restaurant celebrates the rich diversity of ingredients throughout the different regions of Turkey, with the executive chef giving traditional dishes a very modern twist. Facing the water, the views at dinner are quite spectacular. However, it’s the rooftop bar that’s the showstopper. Facing the Galata Bridge, with the minarets of the Old City on the horizon, it’s particularly atmospheric at sunset.
activities
Before you even head across the bridge to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia or the Grand Bazaar, there’s much to peruse in Karaköy itself. The vibrant streets are lined with galleries, boutiques and cool cafés, and the views down to the water will keep drawing your eye. Head to the Topkapi Palace for exceptional displays of Ottoman architecture and Islamic art, then hop on a boat and glide up the Bosphorus to take in the magnificence of the city that was once the capital of two empires.
It’s hard to avoid some retail therapy – the labyrinthine bazaars are brimming with rugs to spices, jewellery to lanterns and more. Then either visit the hotel Spa for a traditional hammam, or one of the many bathhouses in the city.
family
The hotel is very accommodating of families although there are no specific facilities. Extra beds can be put into certain rooms.
sustainability
Every care possible was taken in the restoration of this historic building, with respect for all its original features. There are also a comprehensive range of environmental measure in place to ensure the hotel’s carbon footprint is kept to a minimum. Waste and power management initiatives are in place and supply chains are monitored for sustainable practices.
Location
Istanbul, Turkey
In the historic and fashionable Karaköy district, a short walk from the Galata Bridge to the Old City – 40 minutes from the airport.
