Galata Antique Hotel

Built by the French-Ottoman architect Alexandre Vallaury, the Galata Antique Hotel is a beautifully decorated 19th Century Mansion that is one of the oldest stone buildings in the Taksim and Pera district. Nestled just around the corner from the most active street in Istanbul, “Istikal Street”, this is a hotel that is both elegantly refined and deeply stylish. Istikal Street, or ‘Independence Street’ as it’s sometimes referred to, is a boulevard with a magnificent multitude of shops, art galleries, cafés and bars that sit alongside Churches, Synagogues and Mosques. Running along the boulevard, beginning at Taksim Square, is a nostalgic red tram that travels almost the 3km length of the street. The town’s metro system is the second oldest in the world, rivalling only that of London’s Underground. Shopping enthusiasts can delight in the fact that alongside the smaller independent Turkish stores and second-hand vintage shops, there are also big high street brands such as Mango and Bershka. For over 60 years Henri Hypollite Decugis lived in what is now the Galata Antique Hotel with his family. As an antique dealer and an expert in his trade, his fine porcelain, Christofle silver cutlery and crystal chandeliers could be found in the grandest of houses of the time. It is perhaps not surprising then to describe this hotel as a diamond both inside and out. With 22 Individually decorated bedrooms, the attention to detail is simply staggering, combing classic designs with modern technologies. The suites feature stylish furnishings, delicate colour schemes and offer superb views of Istanbul’s skyline.

One unmistakable feature of the skyline, that has stood high above the city since 1348 and itself offers spectacular panoramic views, is the ‘Gelata Tower’ or ‘The tower of Christ’. From this vantage point you can see the waters of the Golden Horn, a freshwater estuary that separates the north and south of Istanbul; the yellow lights from the City reflect off the surface of the water, revealing its unique shape and beauty. This 220 feet tower with a conical top offering 360-degree views was, until the 1960’s, a fire lookout spot. The balcony that stands above the highest row of windows is narrow and likely to frighten those with a fear of heights; brave it, however, and you will not only witness the most majestic of views but, if you time it correctly, can also experience the “call to prayer”, performed five times daily to summon the faithful to the nearby mosque for ezan.

Mixing moods and styles is a fine art in many people’s eyes, and one which has been executed to perfection at the Galata, nowhere is this better highlighted than in the bedrooms. A hugely comfortable double bed to rest on before discovering the city provides you with the necessary hiatus: a luxurious home away from home. A radiant atmosphere is created by the addition of a huge mirrored wall, inscribed with a French motto, partnered by wood flooring and an en-suite marble bathroom with shower. It’s time to put on your dressing gown, slippers, and totally unwind.   

You will quickly realise the deeply striking contrast of old and new in Istanbul, by its mesmerizing blend of palaces and high-rise shopping centres giving a European feel, while princely mansions and mosques, connect it with the East. As you wander the streets you will be enticed by the amount of hidden passageways, alluring you to find out just where they lead and what they reveal. One such passage is the ‘Cicek Pasaji’ (or Flower Passage to us tourists with a British tongue). Lined with shops, restaurants and boisterous taverns, this is the ideal place to mingle with both locals and foreigners alike. Surrounded with the sounds of talking and laughter, what better place to indulge in platters of local meze, seafood, kebabs and sweet deserts, accompanied by a glass of wine or a beer. The Flower Passage really is a shrine to the Turkish’s love of long group dinners, enjoying the infectious atmosphere of warm hospitality and the sound of itinerant musicians.

Having wandered the streets of Istanbul and in need of a little respite, but not wanting to miss the wonderful sights and sounds of the city’s east and west fusion, take a break at the Galata Antique’s roof terrace bar. With ornate flower arrangements, chic wooden dining tables and clear Perspex seating, you can enjoy the most spectacular views of the city. Original wall features and an oversized beige leather sofa heighten the exceptional splendour of your surroundings; add to your indulgence with a skilfully made cocktail, or a drink of your choice. The terrace also proves to be the perfect setting for a traditional Turkish breakfast: experience a fierce wakeup with a renowned Turkish coffee and watch the city come alive.