The room of domes
If I had a chance to pick one hotel across all in Istanbul for its glory and elegance, I would definitely pick Pera Palace. It is a gem in the heart of Pera. No longer a secret gem though because It has become ‘too’ famous after the Netflix TV series ‘Midnight at the Pera Palace.’
What makes Pera Palace so unique is that it is the only remaining witness of belle époque, an era long forgotten with its jazz bands, ballroom dancing and buzzing energy. An era at the beginning of the 20th century with all the optimism of rising young Republic. All other witnesses of the Era: the Bristol Hotel and Tokatliyan could not stand the test of time and vanished one after another but Pera Palace succeeded to stay and thrive.
An old postcard showing the Tokatliyan Hotel. The building remains but is unrecognizable. Unfortunately the hotel is gone forever.
Especially after a recent renovation, Pera Palace has become more beautiful than ever.
Pera Palace Patisserie
Pera Palace has been a hostess for a range of politicians and artists all through out its history. Ataturk – the founder of our Republic- stayed here during the war of Independence. The first new year’s eve celebration took place here. Many famous characters of the 20th century including Grate Garbo, Agatha Christie, Alfred Hitchcock, Pierre Loti stayed here. The hotel pays tribute to all these famous visitors it has hosted across the years. It has an Ataturk room which you can visit each day at certain hours. It has suits dedicated to Agatha Christie who has written ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ as well as to Pierre Loti and many others.
Greta Garbo
Greta Garbo Suit
When you visit the hotel, pay a visit to the lovely patisserie beautiful with its shades of pink. Definitely drop by for tea time at the saloon of the domes. Have a drink at the Orient Bar. Have a look at the ballroom and imagine the first new year’s eve ball taking place under the ornamented ceiling and the elegant chandeliers. Have a look at the first electric elevator in the country.
Agatha Christie at the Pera Palace
Guests of the Pera Palace in 1920s
Orient Bar
The ballroom still hosts many occasions such as classic music concerts and special events like the republican day ball.
Pera Palace Ballroom
Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the museum room of Ataturk whom we owe our country.
It will be a visit of a life time.
Ataturk – Founder of the Turkish Republic
Ataturk’s Museum Room
