The House Hotel Karakoy is a landmark building built in the late 19th century for the Banque Imperiale Ottomane and has magnificent views of the Old City. With original features that have been restored, this contemporary boutique hotel combines historical glamour with classic design and features a very rich art collection including some commissioned art pieces. Located on Bankalar Caddesi, the main avenue in Istanbul's Ottoman-era banking district, it is a convenient launching pad for exploring many parts of this fascinating city. The hotel is conveniently located steps from the shoreline neighborhood of Karaköy with its galleries, cafes and bars, while the pedestrian thoroughfare of Istiklal Caddesi is a brief walk up the hill. A 15-minute walk over the Galata Bridge spanning the Golden Horn, reaches the Old City and Sultanahmet.