Levni Group, known for its two hotels in Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, has partnered with Accor, one of the world’s leading hospitality groups, to launch Levni Hotel Istanbul Handwritten Collection.
Levni Hotels Chairman Aydın Karacabay expressed pride in bringing this value to Istanbul, noting that this is Accor’s first collection and boutique concept hotel in Turkey, the Middle East, and Africa.
Although 2024 has been a challenging year for tourism, Karacabay highlighted that their hotels have achieved significant occupancy levels over the past two months.
“We are experiencing an October like no other, and with strong reservations for November, we are feeling hopeful about 2025,” he stated.
Accor’s Handwritten Collection concept emphasizes personalized and bespoke services in hospitality, catering to the increasing trend of intimate, individualized experiences. Levni Hotel Istanbul offers this unique approach in a prime location within the Historic Peninsula, where many iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are just a short walk away.
Artistic Design and Cultural Heritage
Levni Hotel Istanbul Handwritten Collection draws inspiration from the rich cultural legacy of the Ottoman Empire, particularly the artistic brilliance of the Tulip Era. The hotel’s interior design pays homage to Ottoman painter Abdülcelil Levni, whose colorful interpretations of Ottoman life are reflected in the hotel’s décor. The fusion of traditional motifs with modern elegance creates an immersive cultural experience for guests.
The hotel features 72 art deco rooms, each carefully decorated with works by prominent Turkish artists. From the restaurants to the lobby, every space has been meticulously crafted to create an atmosphere of tranquility and sophistication.
Karacabay noted that many of the art pieces displayed have been collected over the years and have no measurable monetary value, but they add immense cultural significance to the property. Guests are greeted with traditional Ottoman Sherbet and Reyhan Sherbet, a symbolic nod to the past.
Tourism Rebounds in a Challenging Year
Aydın Karacabay also provided insight into the current state of the tourism sector. While the post-pandemic recovery has been swift, 2024 has seen setbacks due to geopolitical tensions, inflation, and other global issues. Despite this, strong occupancy levels in October and November have given the team renewed hope for 2025.
Karacabay mentioned that the majority of tourists staying in the Historic Peninsula are from Europe, while Middle Eastern tourists tend to prefer more modern, shopping-centric areas. He also raised a potential concern for the tourism industry: Gulf countries offering higher salaries to attract experienced tourism personnel from Turkey. This has resulted in a growing risk of losing trained professionals to neighboring countries, especially in management positions.
Levni Hotel Istanbul Handwritten Collection stands as Accor’s first Handwritten Collection hotel in Turkey, providing a blend of personalized service and cultural immersion for local and international guests alike.
Levni Hotel Istanbul is just one of the exciting new openings in the city. If you’re curious about other luxurious and unique hotel experiences coming to Istanbul, make sure to check out our article on all the new hotels opening in Istanbul. Explore the latest additions to the city’s vibrant hospitality scene!
