Unlocking The Magic of Events In Istanbul
Guest Blog Writer: Maria Tsierkezos, Director of Client Engagement & Growth, Nteractive.
“Did you really go to a place that was magical mum? Grandma said you did!” – quizzed my toddler son, as he rummaged through my jacket pockets for the obligatory airport gift I’d panic purchased.
The truth is, yes, I had been somewhere magical. In fact, Istanbul had left me completely enchanted. Istanbul is more than just a city in Turkey. Spanning two continents, Europe and Asia, it manages to seamlessly blend the ancient with the modern to create an utterly unique and immersive event or travel destination.
I’d wanted to visit Istanbul for years. Having been brought up in a Greek Orthodox household, I’d grown up hearing about magnificent ‘Constantinople’ as Istanbul was formerly named and how it was once at the heart of Greek civilisation. When I finally travelled to this vibrant metropolis, I experienced its rare magic.
We in the events industry often search far and wide to curate experiences that exhilarate the senses. In Istanbul, it’s easy. Every corner of the city tells a story with cultural delights etched into its very fabric.
Culinary & Entertainment Delights
There’s no shortage of vibrant nightlife in Istanbul. Restaurants and bars line the Bosphorus river which are bustling with activity, particularly in the warmer months.
From chic rooftop bars to lively music venues and traditional taverns, Istanbul’s nightlife scene is a fusion of modern trends and cultural heritage. Depending on your event needs, you can be sure to find a solution to wow guests and delegates. There’s an abundance of entertainment options for after-hours socialising which is key for clients who prioritise networking as part of their agenda or itinerary. Boaz Roof was a favourite of mine. Every day of the week is a celebration, with belly dancers and entertainment to keep the party going during and beyond your traditional Turkish meal.
Of course, no visit to Istanbul would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights with both contemporary and traditional dining experiences available for every budget. A fine dining tasting menu under the stars or a fresh kebab from a street food vendor – there’s something for every taste bud.
Accommodation, Hotels & Conference Venues
Hotels in Istanbul combine luxury accommodation with top-tier event spaces, making Istanbul a premier destination solution for event planners everywhere. Prepare to fall in love with glistening chandeliers, manicured hotel grounds, luxurious facilities, and guest hospitality at its best.
There’s a plethora of quality hotels and state-of-the-art conference venues suitable for events of all sizes. Our hotel was positioned on the Bosphorus, making it logistically ideal for private yacht or boat charters. Whether for a river cruise, transfer, or lively celebration, being on the water is an additional venue solution in a city where the sun shines for several months of the year.
Exhilarating the Senses
For event organisers and travellers alike, Istanbul’s plethora of historic sites offer not just a venue, but an environment steeped in grandeur.
My personal favourite was the Basilica Cistern. Originally constructed to store water for the Great Palace, today it stands as one of Istanbul’s most captivating and atmospheric spaces. It’s ancient marble columns, dim lighting and mesmerising architecture create a mystical, subterranean ambiance that is difficult to replicate. Its spacious interior can accommodate large gatherings plus flexibility for more intimate ones. It truly is a feast for the senses, transporting guests and visitors to somewhere extraordinary.
Back above ground, there’s an abundance of compelling aspects to Istanbul that cement it as cultural melting pot. Walking through the city, you marvel at landmarks including Hagia Sophia (once a cathedral and now a museum) which stands as a testament to the city’s rich past opposite The Blue Mosque, with its stunning domes. You’ll hear the call to prayer from towering minarets mingling with the bustling sounds of markets. For events with attendees that enjoy history, I’d recommend a private guide, who helps you beat the queues and shares local knowledge which will captivate the group.
Of course, there’s the renowned Grand Bazaar where you are surrounded by an immense variety of goods from around the world and the energetic calls of market traders. In every corner there’s something new to discover and a deal to be had which is a shopper’s dream. For competitive event attendees, the Bazaar is perfect for a haggling challenge activity. I left with a small carpet I never knew I needed, and a delicate silk pashmina that I know I’ll treasure for many years to come.
It doesn’t end there. Those ‘in the know’ can curate experiences where groups can climb and walk on the roof of the Grand Bazaar itself. Made extra famous by James Bond in “Skyfall” – event attendees can relive the footsteps of Daniel Craig for a VIP experience like no other. From the rooftop, the panoramic views & skyline of Istanbul are breathtaking.
Journey to Cappadocia
It would be wrong no to mention the once in a lifetime visit to nearby Cappadocia. The short flight from Istanbul is worth it for a sunrise hot air balloon experience like no other. The sky fills with hundreds of multi-coloured balloons as visitors marvel on the “you’ve got to see it to believe it” panorama. There’s truly no limit to the experiences that can be curated here, and you can’t shake the feeling that you’ve entered a movie set given the jaw-dropping landscape. Fairy chimneys, ancient rock formations and expansive underground cities will leave guests captivated. I’m a strong believer that often the best experiences are the ones that event planners do not need to create from scratch – Cappadocia is an example of that. By simply curating a programme against the backdrop of Cappadocia’s otherworldly terrain; event attendees can experience this geological wonder. The Goreme National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, doesn’t have to be experienced from the sky. Hiking through ancient caves and valleys is like stepping into a dreamscape.
The contrast of buzzing Istanbul with Cappadocia’s serene and ethereal landscape delivers an event programme of adventure and exclusivity.
A City That Lives and Breathes
My largest impression of Istanbul is that it is a city with a loud heartbeat. It’s a city that lives and breathes. Whether you’re planning a large-scale conference, intimate gathering or sales incentive, Istanbul promises to leave a lasting impact on both event attendees and organisers. I’ve been twice, and I’ll keep going back, as I can’t help but feel that there’s so much more left to discover.
Istanbul certainly delivers on all fronts.
