In the realm of features that more hotels should have, rooftop gardens are high on the list, and the new permaculture garden crowning the sophisticated Witt Istanbul Hotel is perfect proof of why. Designed by a landscape architect and graphic designer, it’s an attractive mix of form and function, with a seating area where guests can relax with a drink and views of the Bosphorus, Topkapi Palace, and Galata Tower and gardens growing edibles like herbs, arugula, strawberries, and lavender for the hotel’s cuisine. —Gabrielle Lipton

This article originally appeared in the August/September print issue of DestinAsian magazine (“Topping Off”)