The Bank Hotel Istanbul

The Bank Hotel Istanbul is one of those hotels where the building itself tells you exactly where you’ve ended up. Housed in a former bank building dating from the early 20th century, the hotel blends historical elements with a distinctly modern take on Istanbul. High ceilings, stone, brass details and darker materials reflect the building’s history, yet without feeling heavy or nostalgic. Instead, the atmosphere is more reminiscent of a well-designed city hotel – urban, tranquil and with enough character to ensure you don’t feel as though you’re staying in just any international hotel. The location in Karaköy is almost an added bonus. Right on the doorstep, you step straight into the heart of Istanbul, amongst small cafés, galleries, restaurants and the steep streets leading towards Galata. Many places are within walking distance, yet returning to the hotel feels like a gentle change of pace. The public areas are particularly pleasant, feeling more like spaces where you actually want to linger rather than just pass through. The Bank Hotel is one of those places that doesn’t try to be particularly flashy. That is precisely what makes it so appealing.