1. Overview of The Peninsula Istanbul
As travelers return to Turkey, The Peninsula Istanbul is becoming one of the most coveted places to stay, with a forthcoming restaurant by the chef behind Michelin two-starred Turk.
2. Turkey’s Tourism Recovery
Turkey has not had an easy time rebuilding its tourism industry. Once a favorite destination among foreign visitors for its rich history, stunning architecture, glistening Mediterranean coastline, and delicious culinary heritage, the country faced several challenges. The years leading up to the pandemic saw social and political unrest, which significantly slowed incoming leisure travel. Moreover, a promising post-lockdown resurgence, fueled by new infrastructure, such as a modern airport and cruise terminal in Istanbul and exciting beach clubs in Bodrum, was disrupted by an earthquake that struck the eastern part of the country in February.
3. Discovering Istanbul
However, many of the popular destinations tourists frequent are situated thousands of kilometers away from the earthquake’s epicenter. If Istanbul’s vibrant allure is calling to you, then there is no better place to immerse yourself in Turkey’s cultural vitality than the newly opened Peninsula Istanbul. The hotel, recently recognized as one of the best new hotels in the world, spans four buildings along the shores of the Bosphorus.
The Peninsula Istanbul
- The hotel rooms offer breathtaking views of iconic attractions such as the towers of Topkapi Palace and the domes of Süleymaniye Mosque.
- The spa features an 82-foot indoor swimming pool decorated with beautiful marble columns and illuminated domes overhead.
- The hotel plans to build boats to provide guests with personalized sailing tours of the city.
4. Architectural Marvel and Views
Building a luxury hotel along the banks of this historic waterway is a significant achievement. The captivating scenery provided by the Bosphorus is complemented by the vibrant life that gathers around it at all hours—commuters, picnickers, and people-watchers contribute to the unique atmosphere. The Peninsula Istanbul streamlined its operations toward this essential strait primarily for one compelling reason: the views. From the hotel’s 177 rooms, you can gaze upon the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the towers of Topkapi Palace, and the majestic domes of Süleymaniye Mosque. While numerous accommodations line the water, few can rival these stunning vistas.
5. Design Inspiration
Designer Zeynep Fadillioglu, the world’s first female mosque designer, draws immense inspiration from the Bosphorus. “Our design intends to align with the contextual frame of the Bosphorus,” she explains regarding Peninsula Istanbul’s interiors. The hotel encompasses four distinct buildings (three historic towers alongside a modern addition), necessitating a cohesive hospitality design. “Everything is connected through the continuity of a certain level of detailing, materials, and textures,” Fadillioglu adds. Guests can experience a sense of surprise while maintaining the hotel’s overall identity.
6. Luxurious Hospitality Experience
The main lobby, located in a Bauhaus building that was formerly a ferry terminal, features high ceilings adorned with beautiful stained glass and oversized chandeliers, creating an opulent atmosphere. For exceptional people-watching, the mezzanine provides a perfect spot to observe Istanbul’s elite indulging in afternoon tea.
7. Accommodations
With 177 rooms contained within four different buildings, guests will notice variations in shape, size, and view. Several room categories exist, each showcasing Turkish-inspired design elements. The guest rooms incorporate Turkish luxury through kilim-style carpets, Marmara marble, inlaid mother-of-pearl marquetry, and embroidered curtains. The hotel’s signature scent crafted by Istanbul-based parfumerie Nishane features citrus notes leading with fig, serving as a gentle reminder of Turkey’s essence.
8. Premier Spa Facilities
The two-level, 5,920-square-foot Peninsula Suite stands as the highlight, boasting its own hammam, gym, and rooftop pool. Yet, a visit to the spa is essential, as the all-white hammam exudes opulence through its marble construction. The impressive indoor swimming pool, flanked by Marmara columns, is illuminated by exquisite overhead domes resembling mini mosque ceilings.
9. Outdoor Spaces and Future Attractions
The hotel features several outdoor spaces, including fragrant gardens by landscape architect Enzo Enea. An herb garden is in progress, soon to host yoga and fitness classes. The outdoor pool offers views of the Golden Horn; however, the hotel is currently working on acquiring boats that will take guests on tailored sailing excursions throughout Istanbul. Gallada, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant serving Turkish Asian cuisine created by acclaimed chef Fatih Tutak, is set to open in July and will almost certainly draw reservations from locals and tourists alike.
