The Bank Istanbul

The Bank Istanbul is, in essence, exactly what it says on the tin: the luxe, modern, cosmopolitan approach to boutique hospitality, transported to a classic bank building (hence the “bank” bit) in an area that was once a financial center, and now belongs to the up-and-coming district of Karaköy.

The rooms are smart, chic, comfortable and more than a little bit luxurious, and from the upper floors they take in some truly impressive city views. In terms both of aesthetics and comforts they’re perfectly measured, the product of a disarming creative intelligence. It’s an illustration of the strength of modern Turkish hospitality talent, the work of a local architect, a local designer, and a local boutique mini-chain par excellence. There’s an in-house art curator tasked with showcasing an impressive collection of local art, and the lobby bar and restaurant acquit themselves admirably, serving contemporary Turkish cuisine in a stylish, inviting environment. There’s an impressive wine cellar, an equally impressive spa, and a rooftop terrace pushes the whole thing over the line from “quite good” to “top of the class.”

How to get there:
The Bank Istanbul is located just over a mile from Taksim Square. Istanbul’s Atatürk Airport (IST) is 12 miles away, about a 25-minute drive.