About Us
FER is a sophisticated boutique hotel with a focus on luxury located in the heart of the Old City of Istanbul, a vibrant hub where the aesthetic and cultural heritage spans from ancient times to the present day.
About
Surrounded by the Golden Horn, Bosphorus Istanbul boand Marmara Sea, the Old City is known as the “Historical Peninsula” due to being Istanbul's oldest settlement and the numerous historical landmarks it holds. The area has been home to many defining moments in history from Ancient Times, to the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods and the modern day and invites its guests to explore its wonders, like an expansive open-air museum.
As the Sparkle of the Historical Peninsula, the concept of FER Hotel is built around the interplay of light, water, and mosaics — inspired by the key elements of the city's local architecture, which have been carried from ancient times to the present day. The name 'FER', meaning brightness and radiance, is derived from the local language.
Historically Significant
Originally built in the 1800s, the structure was meticulously restored to offer luxurious accommodations and opened its doors as FER Hotel in 2016. The façade, with its expansive windows, partially glazed details, and distinctive entrance, beautifully captures the charm and character of the past.
The area surrounding the building has been at the heart of journalism from the mid-19th century of Ottoman Period until the 1980s of the Republic of Turkey. Close to the political epicenter and the sources of news, the printing houses and newspaper offices became a hub for journalists and intellectuals alike since Ottoman Period. Even after Istanbul ceased to be the capital, this district continued to serve as the center of journalism during the Republican era. For many years, the headquarters of major newspapers, bookstores, and printing presses were all located in this vibrant part of the city.
Servet-i Fünûn, which began its publication on March 27, 1891 as a weekly illustrated literary and scientific magazine, especially celebrated for its vital contribution to the modernization of Turkish literature moved to the building on Türbedar Street in 1910 — exactly where FER Hotel now stands. The magazine continued to be printed in this location, alongside other publications, until May 25, 1944, when it released its final issue.
Over the years, the building has become a significant site of cultural memory, offering a space for literary figures in the magazine’s editorial offices. It has witnessed key political and social events while playing a pivotal role in the Turkish printing industry, embracing modern techniques and training local printing masters.
Since 2016, FER Hotel has been offering contemporary and sophisticated accommodations in the very same Servet-i Fünûn building on Türbedar Street, preserving the legacy of this historic site.
Interior Design
- Atrium, the source of life
The lively atrium, which combines the natural elements of sunlight, water, and the shimmering hues of peacock mosaics, captivates the eye from the moment you step inside. Encircled by 40 of FER’s rooms and suites, it serves as a striking centerpiece. FER Hotel provides a truly unique accommodation experience with its 56 rooms, right in the heart of Istanbul's historic Old City.
- Sophisticated and finely detailed
Every aspect is thoughtfully chosen, down to the finest details at FER. The original structure, dating back to the 1800s, has been beautifully reimagined with a modern design, providing a luxurious stay that honors both history and contemporary comfort. Natural marble surfaces, custom-designed mosaics, parquet floorings, Nespresso coffee machines, and Flos lighting are just a few of the carefully curated details that define the hotel’s rooms and suites, each designed to the highest standards of elegance.
- Contemporary in every way
A curated selection of Devrim Erbil’s serigraphs depicting Istanbul grace the walls of FER Hotel. Known as the 'poet of painting,' Devrim Erbil is an internationally acclaimed contemporary Turkish artist. His work is deeply influenced by the rhythm and movement of life, as well as the beauty of repetition. Having lived in Istanbul for over 60 years, he finds the city’s historical significance and natural beauty truly inspiring. Erbil captures Istanbul in abstract forms—sometimes from a bird’s-eye view, other times blending various perspectives—often conveying the hythm of the birds in the city. Through his art, Devrim Erbil aims to bring moments of joy and celebration of life. Discover the soul of Istanbul through the eyes of Devrim Erbil at FER Hotel…
Present Day
FER Hotel, known for its elegance and exclusivity since 2016, is managed by a family with over 40 years of expertise in the jewelry industry at Grand Bazaar.
Creating special moments for everyone through the FER experience and offering them the opportunity to discover the true rewards of life, is the mission of this family-run business supported by the core values such as trust, respect, team spirit, innovation and quality.
FER Hotel seeks to increase its visibility and reputation for quality and reliability in the coming years, while ensuring exceptional satisfaction for both its employees and guests.
At FER Hotel, guests can enjoy a diverse selection of traditional and international cuisines at the open buffet breakfast served at ROOFFER Restaurant. A secure, indoor car parking area with a smart lift system is available exclusively for hotel guests arriving by car. For those who wish to maintain their fitness routine, the gym is open 24/7. Room sizes range from 23 to 45 square meters with room amenities such as flat-screen TV, safety deposit box, split air conditioning, desk and chair, parquet floors, rain shower, towels, bathrobes, slippers, complimentary toiletries, minibar, electric kettle, Nespresso machine, as well as free tea, coffee, and bottled water.