The Bank Hotel Istanbul

The Bank Hotel Istanbul is an excellent example of the luxe, sophisticated approach to boutique hospitality we look for in Istanbul.

The chic design of The Bank Hotel perfectly balances refined aesthetics and modern comforts, reflecting the strength of Turkish hospitality and the talent of local architects, designers, and artists — e.g., in its impressive collection of local art.

Design and features

Having taken over a former bank, the designers creatively repurposed the old spaces of the building and incorporated heritage elements into the design. Thus, the old vault became a wine cellar, with the humongous reinforced door now guarding new treasures — those of the palate rather than the wallet.

Equally impressive is the spa, and a rooftop terrace pushes the hotel over the line from “quite good” to “top of the class.” The hotel also has a restaurant serving contemporary Turkish cuisine in a stylish environment, while its lobby bar is a perfect space for evening cocktails. The rooms are comfortable and luxurious and are furnished with taste and high style. Book an upper-floor room to benefit from some awe-inspiring city views.

In the neighborhood

The Bank Hotel Istanbul is located in an area that was once a financial center, now the up-and-coming district of Karaköy. Its address places the Bank Hotel Istanbul close to hip cafes and shops and makes it a great launching pad for exploring the city.

Make sure to visit the Galata Tower (a short walk from the hotel) — it’s as good a starting point for Istanbul sightseeing as any, with its panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn.

in our opinion

What we love

• Beautiful building and superb interior design. It mixes traditional Istanbul influences with exciting modern trends, incorporating historical elements (marble staircases, fireplaces) into the new style.
• Location in Bankalar Caddesi, a historical financial center of the Ottoman Empire. Today it's a trendy neighborhood of hip cafes and contemporary art galleries.
• Book the top floor Penthouse Suite if you can — it has unmatched luxury and stunning views.
• Great food and abundant breakfasts—definitely a highlight of any hotel stay.

What you should know

• Ask for a room on higher floors and at the back of the hotel to avoid any possible noise coming from the immediate neighborhood.
• Children are welcome but not specially catered to.
• The room sizes are adequate for European standards, but some may find them to be "on the small side."
• The Istanbul Atatürk International Airport is only a half-hour drive away.

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