Istanbul, earlier known as Constantinople, was an ancient city in modern-day Türkiye. Renamed Istanbul under the Turks, the city again became the capital of a glorious empire and played a central role in east-west cultural and economic exchange. I had read about its magnificence in history books and the silk route stories and it was my dream to visit this legendary city. In February 2023, on the lookout for some exceptional MICE properties in Türkiye, I took a trip to one of the greatest cities in the world.
– Prashant Nayak
Strategically located between the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara at the point where Europe meets Asia, on the Bosphorus Strait, Constantinople was extremely important as the successor to ancient Rome and the largest and wealthiest city in Europe throughout the Middle Ages. The city founded by the Roman emperor Constantine served as the capital of the eastern part of the Roman Empire. In olden times, the wealth of Constantinople was immense, and its location ensured it a very important role in the trade with the East and was referred to as ‘Eastern Rome’.
Today, Istanbul is famous for being a dual continent city with rich historical value, architectural marvels, beautiful mosques, museums, and monuments and packed with excellent dining opportunities, shopping, nightlife, etc. This city has always been a melting pot of rich culture and history.
From CVK Park Bosphorus, where I stayed, one gets amazing panoramic views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, Topkapi Palace, Maiden Tower, Prince’s Islands, and Asian side views. I made sure to spend at least an hour overlooking the strait while having my morning cuppa and wondering over the strategic importance of this waterway for ages, which separates Istanbul into two continents of Asia and Europe.
Conveniently situated in the heart of İstanbul, CVK Park Bosphorus, inspired by the texture and history of Istanbul, brings aesthetics and comfort together in an elite district and distinguishes itself with its superior service concept. The hotel with 12 meeting rooms including four divisible ones, hosts meetings and events in different capacities. It also puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options within their premises.
Crossing the Bosphorus on a ferry is a great way to enjoy the views while travelling from the European side to the Asian side and vice versa. However, I recommended sailing the Bosphorus in style on a luxury yacht cruise and exploring Istanbul’s famous waterway, which I did for 2.5 hours. The views of the waterfront palaces, mansions, hotels, and mosques, other than Istanbul’s stunning skyline, will blow you out. Another amazing sight is there are scores of people fishing around the strait and its bridges and that is an experience I missed out on.
The Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus also offers stunning views over the Bosphorus Strait and it is just a 10-minute walk from Taksim Square. Featuring both an outdoor and an indoor pool, beautiful green gardens, a traditional Turkish bath, and 6 restaurant and bar options, this iconic hotel provides resort-style accommodations. The Ambassador and Connie Ballrooms, renovated by taking inspiration from the unique splendor of sunrise and the Bosphorus, are sure to fascinate guests.
The Peninsula Istanbul is the newest addition to The Peninsula Hotels’ portfolio of peerlessly elegant and luxurious worldwide properties. The waterfront property along the Bosphorus Strait with 177 gorgeously appointed rooms encompasses four exquisite buildings, three of which are protected historical landmarks dating to the early 1900s, each carefully renovated, set amid a quarter-kilometer expanse of newly built gardens. The hotel’s collection of special-event venues is similarly splendid. Lavish options include a grand ballroom that, when combined with its Terrace, can accommodate 820 guests for a seated banquet and 1,300 for standing cocktails. In addition, the hotel offers two intimate conference rooms, VIP private dining and wine-tasting areas, and numerous alfresco spaces.
The Bosphorus area is teeming with unique hotel concepts. Dating back to the 17th century, Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is the one and only Ottoman Imperial Palace and hotel situated right on the Bosphorus. This legendary property with 310 rooms has 11 suites including the Sultan Suite in the historical palace that offers a royal experience in line with local tradition, with large sash windows, high ceilings, and captivating views of the Bosphorus, the historical peninsula, the palace courtyard, or the park. This is a dream destination for fairy-tale palace weddings and they have over 25 venues for business meetings and special events.
The Galata Tower is a huge landmark in Istanbul and can be seen from many parts of the city. Among the many towers in the city, the Galata is undoubtedly the oldest and most iconic one. There are many interesting stories surrounding this one. Head up to the observation deck of this historic watchtower, where visitors will be treated to sweeping views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait.
The Sultanahmet district houses the famous historical buildings of Istanbul. Once the biggest cathedral in the world, the Hagia Sophia is considered the magnum opus of Byzantine architecture. It is a must-see when in Istanbul and I was inspired by its stunning architecture, glorious interior, and historical significance. Hagia Sophia is now a working mosque and visitors need to remove their shoes before stepping onto the building’s carpet and dress appropriately while covering their heads, once inside. As tourists flock to visit the mosque, don’t be surprised to see long queues. The Blue Mosque is adjacent to the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, which are also among the most important structures in Istanbul’s history and welcome millions of visitors every year. Unfortunately, during my visit, it was closed for some renovation purposes and I missed seeing the beautiful and classical works and architecture of the Ottoman Empire from inside.
Nearby nestled among the city’s most defining landmarks is the Four-Season Istanbul Sultanahmet. This 65-key boutique and opulent hotel is an architectural ode to Istanbul’s fascinating heritage. This newly restored neoclassical home is a multi-layered architectural gem – a calming sanctuary where heritage and modernity converge to immerse guests in the charm and intrigue of Istanbul. From their Sureya rooftop bar, guests can gaze out over the dramatic cityscape, with the Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Blue Mosque almost close enough to touch.
For Indians who love shopping, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is not the place to miss. The Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s most famous shopping destinations and, the world’s biggest enclosed bazaar still retaining its ancient charm and mysterious vibes. It is also the world’s oldest, the biggest bazaar where the most variable products are exhibited. Once inside, the Bazaar’s 64 streets and smaller alleyways house roughly 4,000 stores and the mosque, post office, cafes, banks, and police station, making it a little city in a big city.
Earlier a sports and Exhibition Center, the mighty Istanbul Lutfi Kirdar International Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICEC) can host large-scale events such as international congresses and meetings, fairs, exhibitions, cocktails to gala dinners, film premieres cultural and artistic events. With 23 function and event rooms, the Halic Congress Center fulfills a crucial mission for Istanbul’s business market by hosting a wide range of MICE events.
I found Istanbul to be one of the coolest cities I have ever visited and is a perfect city for MICE. Combined with Antalya, MICE groups will have a great time as both the city caters to several different tastes. Istanbul is one of my top recommendations as the city is a mix of history, emotions, excitement, and vibrancy with great tourism opportunities.
