Galataport Istanbul, in partnership with Škoda as the main sponsor, is set to host the popular music channel Akustikhane. The Post Sessions Akustikhane Concerts will take place on October 12-13, bringing together various artists and offering enjoyable open-air performances for music lovers.

Known for its cultural and artistic events, Galataport Istanbul is preparing to host the Port Sessions Akustikhane Concerts with Škoda as the main sponsor. On October 12-13, Galataport Istanbul will welcome music enthusiasts to the stunning atmosphere of Doğuş Square.

The concerts, which are free to attend, will kick off on October 12 at 6:00 PM with N’Alakaile, offering a vibrant blend of hip hop, funk, and rock. Later, at 8:00 PM, Turkey’s first reggae band, Sattas, will energize the crowd. Combining reggae, ska, and dub with Turkish lyrics, Sattas promises an unforgettable musical feast for the audience.

On Sunday, October 13, at 6:00 PM, Selin Sümbültepe will take the stage, blending electronic and ethnic elements with her powerful vocals. At 8:00 PM, the alternative rock band Soft Analog will perform, merging retro rock with modern melodies. The two-day event will be further enriched by delicious food and signature drinks from The Populist.

About Galataport Istanbul:

Located in the heart of Istanbul along a 1.2 km stretch of the Bosphorus, Galataport Istanbul offers visitors a vibrant and accessible experience with its low-rise buildings, neighborhood concept design, and architecture harmonizing with the area’s historic fabric. It provides a “breathing” healthy and safe environment for culture, art, shopping, dining, and work. Recognized for its environmental and local impact, architectural features, brand variety, and customer satisfaction, Galataport Istanbul was named the “Best New Development Project” at the 2023 MAPIC Awards.

Since its opening in October 2021, Galataport has become a popular gathering spot, revitalizing Karaköy as the commercial hub of the city and hosting numerous local and international brands and restaurants. A standout feature is its underground cruise terminal, inspired by Istanbul’s cisterns and awarded the Red Dot design prize. The innovative hydraulic hatch system, consisting of 176 covers, creates a temporary customs zone when a ship docks. This ensures that Karaköy’s coastline, closed to public access since the late 19th century, remains open to visitors except for the docked area.

Spanning a 29,000 m² terminal area, Galataport Istanbul can simultaneously accommodate three ships and handle up to 15,000 passengers daily, boosting cruise tourism in the region and contributing significantly to the local and national economy. In 2022, it was awarded the “Port of the Year” at the prestigious Seatrade Cruise Awards, recognizing its innovative operations and approach.

Galataport Istanbul’s contributions to environmental sustainability include the use of special cooling systems and waste management efforts. It holds the distinction of being the second-largest project in Europe with LEED Platinum certification. Additionally, it received the “Environmental Responsibility Award” from MedCruise in 2021 and was acknowledged for its commitment during the pandemic with the “Eastern Mediterranean Cruise Port Most Committed to the Sector” award in 2020. In 2023, it won the “Best Mixed-Use Project” and “Greenest Building/Building Community” awards at Turkey’s prestigious Sign of the City Awards.

The project has also restored several significant registered buildings, including the iconic Paket Postanesi, which now serves as a hub for fashion, design, cuisine, and jewelry artisans. Other restored buildings include Merkez Han, Karaköy Passenger Terminal, and Çinili Han. Galataport is also home to The Peninsula Istanbul, a luxury hotel with 177 rooms, and a ballroom with a unique guillotine façade that opens in 90 seconds.

Galataport Istanbul integrates the city’s historical port with modern-day Istanbul, contributing to social and economic sustainability. Its Tophane Clock Tower, Istanbul’s oldest clock tower dating back to 1848, crowns the Clock Tower Square, which hosts key cultural and art events. Since opening, Galataport has held nearly 100 public events attended by 1.5 million people and welcomed 35 million visitors from around the world.

In its second year, Galataport Istanbul received the “Turkey Brand” award, becoming a destination visited by foreign heads of state, diplomats, international media, and top tourism professionals. The project is expected to attract approximately 1.5 million cruise passengers annually, further boosting Istanbul’s tourism sector.