GGI European Regional Conference

We invite you to join us in Istanbul for a few memorable days of business, new ideas, great conversations -- and the chance to experience one of the world’s most fascinating cities. We’ll be at the magnificent Çırağan Palace Kempinski, set directly on the Bosphorus, for a conference that brings together international perspectives, expertise and the GGI community.

Of course, you may also expect terrific keynotes and exciting Expert Group meetings ... but just as importantly, there will be plenty of time away from the meeting rooms to reconnect with familiar faces and build new relationships over the course of the weekend.

And then there’s Istanbul itself.

Few cities in the world offer quite the same combination of history, culture and energy. Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been shaped by empires, religions and trading routes for more than two millennia. Its skyline brings together Byzantine domes, Ottoman minarets, grand palaces and modern towers, while the Bosphorus provides a spectacular backdrop at almost every turn.

From the historic streets of Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar to the galleries, restaurants and cafés of Karaköy, Galataport and Beyoğlu, there is something different around every corner. Add the call to prayer echoing across the city, ferries crossing the Bosphorus, rooftop terraces overlooking the water and an extraordinary food scene ranging from traditional meze and kebabs to contemporary Turkish cuisine, and Istanbul is a city that rewards exploration.

Our hotel could hardly be more fitting. Çırağan Palace Kempinski occupies a former Ottoman imperial palace on the shores of the Bosphorus, offering an extraordinary setting for our gathering. With its historic architecture, gardens and uninterrupted views across the water, it provides a memorable place to meet, exchange ideas and spend time together -- while putting many of Istanbul’s highlights within easy reach.

And late April and early May is an excellent time to visit this city, where East meets West. Istanbul is emerging into spring, with longer days, pleasant temperatures and the city’s parks and gardens coming into bloom. It is a particularly enjoyable season for exploring on foot, sitting outside for lunch or taking in the Bosphorus from one of the city’s many terraces.

Whether your priority is new business opportunities, exchanging expertise with fellow members, strengthening your international connections or simply spending a few memorable days with the #ggifamily, Istanbul offers an exceptional combination of all four.

We look forward to welcoming you to Istanbul – and to the Bosphorus – in spring 2027.