Bugra’s place has been one of our favorite airbnbs. If you look for a place to stay in Istanbul, you are at the right spot.
Location: We were at the heart of the city. The apartment is in an old European style neighborhood with cute cafes, restaurants, wine shops and bars. The Istiklal Avenue is just a few steps from the building. The building has two entrances; one opens to the popular and crowded Asmalımescit and Narmanlı Han and the other opens to calm and boheme bourgeois Şişhane. The nearest metro station is only 2 min by walking. It is extremely easy to get anywhere in the city such as the old Istanbul peninsula and the new town.
Place: Bugra’s loft is in a beautiful historic building with a lot of character and charm. It is actually better than it looks on the photo. It is larger and better equipped. I admit Bugra must have spent a lot of effort and money into the decoration. It is a cozy home, and not some typical rental place. The 5 meter ceiling gives an enormous sense of depth in the living room, we loved to sit and relax there. Wi-fi is at 4,5G speed.
The loft is at 6th floor and unfortunately there is no elevator. Either stay fit or get fit by climbing the stairs :) The view from the terrace is hard to beat. There is no need to climb up to Galata Tower. Enjoy your drinks on terrace so far above the crowded streets.
Host: Bugra welcomed us personally and we had a short conversation following our late check-in. Before our arrival he has asked whether we need anything to put in the fridge and has done the shopping for us. He left a bottle of red wine as a present. It was the best check-in experience. He is more like a friend to hang around than a regular host. He is very responsive, helpful and gives good suggestions about where to go, where to eat, what to do…
We felt like home. If we ever come to Istanbul again, we will definitely stay at Bugra’s place. A truly great place and host!