Pera Palace Hotel
Since its grand opening in 1895, Pera Palace Hotel has captivated guests from around the world with its Belle Époque elegance and timeless charm. Originally built to accommodate passengers of the legendary Orient Express, which made its first historic Paris-Istanbul journey in 1883, the hotel quickly became an icon of luxury and sophistication.
Designed by the renowned French-Ottoman architect Alexander Vallaury, Pera Palace has hosted an impressive array of distinguished guests, including literary giants such as Ernest Hemingway and Agatha Christie, as well as cinematic legends like Alfred Hitchcock. Over the years, the hotel has preserved its classical grandeur, with authentic 19th-century details that transport visitors to a bygone era.
Perfect Location in the Heart of Beyoğlu
Ideally situated in Istanbul’s vibrant Beyoğlu district, just steps from Istiklal Avenue, Pera Palace Hotel offers unmatched convenience for guests who want to immerse themselves in the city’s artistic, historical, and cultural scenes. Within walking distance, you’ll find the Pera Museum, Salt Beyoğlu, local art galleries like Galerist, Öktem & Aykut, and Zilberman, along with exhibitions at Meşher and İş Bankası Museum. The hotel is also close to some of Istanbul's best bars and restaurants, including Mikla, Neolokal, Il Cortile, and Cecconi's at Soho House, offering easy access to both everyday life and fine dining, all set in one of the city’s most lively neighborhoods.
Interesting facts about Pera Palace Hotel:
- Pera Palace was the first modern hotel in Istanbul to feature hot running water and electricity in its rooms, as well as an electric lift that astonished its early guests.
- Agatha Christie, the famed British crime novelist, was a frequent visitor to the hotel. It is believed that she wrote part of her renowned novel Murder on the Orient Express in Room 411, now famously known as the Agatha Christie Room.
- In 1981, Pera Palace was granted "museum-hotel" status, and Room 101 was transformed into the Atatürk Museum in tribute to the founder of modern Turkey.
- The 1974 film adaptation of Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express, starring Albert Finney as Hercule Poirot, features memorable scenes set in Istanbul.
- To experience the hotel’s historic ambiance, guests can indulge in its ever-popular afternoon tea, served daily from 15:00 to 18:00 in the opulent Kubbeli Lounge. With its Oriental décor, an exquisite buffet, and live jazz piano music, the experience offers a delightful journey back in time.
