travel club istanbul

• Klub putnika

The aim of the Travel House was to enable everyone to get acquainted with Istanbul and the region, without having to pay for the accommodation. Cooking was possible, which dramatically reduced the food expenses. All you needed was a sleeping bag and a mat. With the use of hitchhiking, local trains (with Balkan Flexipass cheap ticket) or any other free / low-cost combination, this gave anyone an opportunity to visit Istanbul with virtually no money at all.

Read the house rules and apply!

NOTE: Istanbul Travel House is now closed . 

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Welcome to Serbia Travel Club’s Travel House in Istanbul. Please read these basic house rules and notify us by filling out the form at the bottom of...

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Istanbul Travel House

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Where to Stay, Eat, and Play in Istanbul

By Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Istanbul is a cosmopolis unlike any other—where the remains of former empires, the cultural influences of multi-ethnic communities, and contemporary Turkish identity all exist in delicate harmony. The Turkish megacity, which lifted all COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements upon entry this month, continues to grow with new restaurants, boutique hotels, designer shops, and contemporary art galleries sprouting up in trending neighborhoods on both sides of the strait. Here are the essential things to do in Istanbul, from the traditional to the contemporary and experimental.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

An egg and beef pastrami dish at TURK

The interior dining area at TURK

Where to eat

A nucleus of gastronomy representative of the endless recipes and traditions of Turkey’s many regions, this is also a palatal playground for celebrity chefs who are redefining Turkish cuisine with a modern verve, inclusive of wine lists that celebrate the newly sprouting boutique vineyards all over the country. A consistently excellent venue for lunch or dinner, locals love to dine on modern interpretations of classic Turkish dishes at Yeni Lokanta , especially the mantı (dumplings filled with meat) which has become rather famous in its own right.

For a more experimental take on the new Turkish kitchen, the tasting menu at TURK is a fascinating journey through Anatolia and its history told through creative dishes that look like works of art. More edible art can be experienced inside the former Ottoman Bank, where Neolokal looks out over the Old City, serving creative dishes inspired by tradition as well as one of the city’s most comprehensive Turkish wine lists.

For the classic rakı, meze, and fresh fish fare that is synonymous with Istanbul, reserve a table at Kıyı , a local institution known for bidding the highest price for the freshest catch at the fish markets. Go to Mahir Lokantası if you’re looking for a no-frills eatery with a daily spread of excellent home-cooked Anatolian dishes and desserts, as well as lahmacun (thin crispy dough with minced meat and herbs) and pide (flatbread loaded with different toppings) fresh from the wood-fired oven upon order.

If you’ve spent a day perusing the sights in Sultanahmet, skip all the touristy restaurants and head to Lokanta 1741 for beyond-par Turkish food served on a lovely terrace with its own cocktail bar. If you’ve ventured to the Asian side of the city to the trendy Moda neighborhood, make sure to try Turkish street food staples reinterpreted by two former fine dining chefs at Basta Street Food Bar , or more experimental recipes accompanied by wine at their newly opened venue, Basta Neobistro .

If you’re in need of a coffee break accompanied by something sweet or savory, spend some time at the minimalist Casa Cooklife , which also publishes an eponymous slow-living magazine. In the evening, get a thorough introduction to the world of Turkish wines at Foxy Nişantaşı , currently the city’s coolest wine bar. As for craft cocktails that interpret local ingredients and culture in a coupe glass, make sure to drop by Fahri Konsolos , touted as the city’s best cocktail bar.

Kolon, a 2010 piece by Sergiden Yerleştirme Görüntüsü, at the ARTER Museum

Darts target boards and arrows by Jacob Dahlgren at the ARTER Museum

No Istanbul experience would be complete without first getting thoroughly cleansed and rejuvenated at a Turkish hammam. Two of the very best Turkish baths are the beautifully renovated and modern Kılıç Alı Paşa Hamamı , and the smaller and more private Çukurcuma Hamamı with its flawless marble interior.

If you’ve already taken in the major sights in Sultanahmet, take some time to stroll through the city’s lesser known but equally significant museums. Admire the precious collection of objects from early Anatolian civilizations and the Ottoman Empire in the private Sadberk Hanım Museum , located inside a renovated nineteenth-century villa. Walk along the gardens and terrace overlooking the Bosphorus at the Sakıp Sabancı Museum , a former residence turned private fine arts museum that has exhibited the works of renowned names such as Monet, Picasso, and Rodin.

If your predilections lie in the world of contemporary art, make sure to visit the exhibitions inside the architecturally forward ARTER museum, designed by the London-based Grimshaw Architects. For a nostalgic journey into the past, head to the Ara Güler Museum to admire the iconic black-and-white Istanbul photographs of the famous Turkish-Armenian photojournalist. To learn more about the history of Turkish cinema, visit the Istanbul Cinema Museum inside the iconic and recently renovated Atlas Cinema, which turned a neoclassical mansion into a center of arts and culture in the 1930s. And for more unconventional and unforgettable journeys into Istanbul, such as a curated private sailing or rowing tour on the Bosphorus or Golden Horn, get in touch with Istanbul Tour Studio.

Every Istanbul neighborhood has its own weekly market, but there’s no doubt that the vast and multitudinous Kadıköy Market is the best place to get some serious food shopping done any day of the week. Here you can purchase everything from produce to spices, Turkish cheeses to dried fruits and nuts, fresh fish to offal, and so much more. For gift shopping outside the Grand Bazaar, visit Turkish Modern for beautiful Turkish handicrafts, Homemade Aromaterapi for 100 percent-natural beauty products, and Omar Baban Design for striking and luxurious home goods. Take a little side trip to the hidden courtyard of the historic Arif Paşa Apartment, to find two beautiful boutiques side-by-side: Nauna Linen , with its hand-illustrated textiles, and Touline Ceramics , featuring ceramics all slowly made by hand.

To browse through the latest collections of Istanbul’s most coveted fashion designers, spend some time in the upscale Nişantaşı neighborhood where the city’s most successful names have their ateliers and showrooms. Make sure to visit FEY , the gorgeous women’s clothing and accessories boutique of Fatoş Yalın, Turkey’s first fashion editor. For something edgier, head to Sudi Etuz , a brand created by the new-gen street couture designer Şansım Adalı, known for her bold collections that play with tulle. Another must is the store of young jewelry designer Begum Khan , whose heirloom pieces are inspired by a lush and mystical world of flora and fauna bedecked in ostentatious crystals. For an introduction to Istanbul’s major fashion creators, don’t miss out on Gizia Gate , which brings together the collections of more than thirty of Turkey’s top designers under one roof.

Arati Menon

Hannah Towey

Maya Silver

Ecole St. Pierre Hotel

Where to stay in Istanbul

You can find the usual major brands such as the Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, Ritz Carlton, St. Regis, and Kempinski in Istanbul, but the city also has a few new hotels that have turned historic structures into exceptional accommodations. In the wealthy Sarıyer district, inside two Ottoman-era mansions overlooking the Bosphorus, the Six Senses Kocataş Mansions offer an exclusive stay complete with a luxurious spa and rooms decked out in Belle Epoque furnishings. The former Collège des Frères St. Pierre Elementary School from the nineteenth century is now the very chic Ecole St. Pierre Hotel , with its private courtyard, pizzeria, and room terraces that face the historic Galata Tower.

After a meticulous restoration project, the Adahan mansion, built in 1874 by the Camondo family, is now the luxurious Adahan DeCamondo Pera by the Autograph Collection with an all-day dining rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar overlooking the city. Away from the bustle of Istanbul, the historic Splendid Palace Hotel on Büyükada (the largest of the Prince’s Islands) is something out of a Wes Anderson film, with its red and white interior decorated with palm fronds and elegant furnishings, and its own pool, bar, and restaurant.

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Wander-Lush

42 Things to Know Before You Visit Istanbul: Helpful Istanbul Travel Tips

Istanbul is a magnificent beast.

Thirty-nine districts, 15 million people, and 1700-plus years of history – it’s still difficult for me to wrap my head around a city of this scale.

I never know where to begin with Istanbul. And yet every time I arrive, I somehow feel instantly at ease. Turkey’s biggest metropolis has a way of encircling you, sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. For me, it’s one of those places where it’s best to relinquish expectations and anxieties and just go with the flow.

That’s easier said than done, and there are countless tidbits I wish I had known before I visited Istanbul for the first time back in 2019. On my recent re-visit, there were many more things I noticed for the first time.

I struggled to whittle this list down to a digestible size – not because travelling in Istanbul is particularly complicated or difficult, but because when you’re dealing with a city of such incredible breadth and depth, there’s just so much to talk about.

Here are 42 Istanbul tips that I think every traveller will benefit from , including cultural quirks, itinerary planning tips, logistics hints, and common faux pas.

• Also read: The perfect itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Istanbul quick links

• Istanbul airport transfer: Private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen (from $27)
• Where to stay in Istanbul: Hostel Le Banc (budget); 38 Hotel (mid-range); Hotel Empress Zoe (boutique); Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (luxury)
• Istanbul Official E-Pass: Pre-purchase online here
• Skip the line: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour (from $40)
• Best Istanbul food tour: Taste of 2 Continents (from $100)
• Top-rated Istanbul city tour: Best of Istanbul in 1 Day (from $60)
• Turkey car hire: Find a low-cost rental on Local Rent (from 28€/day)

Essential Istanbul travel tips

Starting with the basics, here are answers to some of the burning questions I had before my first visit to Turkey (Türkiye) and Istanbul.

1. Avoid visiting in summer

Never underestimate Istanbul’s magnetism. The city pulled in more than 14 million tourists in 2019 (including me), and on my most recent trip in 2022, it felt just as crowded as it had been three years earlier.

I’m willing to bet that most people visit Istanbul during the summer months – June, July and August. This feels a bit hypocritical because I myself have visited Istanbul twice during summer – but because I did, I know what peak season is like.

Istanbul’s climate is quite mild relative to other cities in the region. Temperatures might not go too far beyond 30 degrees Celsius in the shade, but the sun is scorching hot, and it’s very dry.

Aside from the oppressive heat, there are the summer swarms to contend with. (You haven’t really experienced a queue until you’ve stood in line for the Hagia Sophia on an August afternoon.) There are crushing crowds at every landmark during summer, and that gets old pretty quickly. On top of that, accommodation prices are noticeably higher and it can be challenging to get a reservation.

The best time to visit Istanbul is during shoulder season, spring (April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to the start of November). For something different, consider visiting Turkey in winter , when snow covers Istanbul and the city’s charm-o-metre is off the charts.

Take note of the dates for the Holy Month of Ramadan (usually around March-April-May, but it changes every year), which influences the way the city operates.

2. You need at least three days to do Istanbul justice

However many days you give yourself in Istanbul, it will never be enough. You will always feel like you short-changed yourself – there’s always one more neighbourhood to explore, one more ferry trip to take, one more museum to visit, one more restaurant to try…

Three days is the bare minimum for a first-time visitor, but you could easily stay for a week or more.

I recently spent 10 days in Istanbul and found it was a good amount of time to see the city at a relaxed pace. I stayed in the centre for that entire time, though I did have a few ‘down’ days to work. There are dozens of day trip opportunities to break things up if the city gets to be too much.

One of the highlights of Istanbul is the food, so you’d do well to measure the duration of your stay in meals eaten rather than nights slept! Six square meals (and a couple of ‘spread breakfasts’) is ideal for indulging in the best of Istanbul’s food scene .

Plan your time with my 4-day Istanbul itinerary , which covers the must-sees and a few local gems.

3. Save time (and maybe money) by applying for an e-visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Türkiye. The country’s e-visa scheme, which launched in 2013, is available to citizens of 40+ countries, including the States, Australia and Canada. (EU citizens do not need a visa.) A standard multiple-entry visa is valid for a stay of up to 90 days with 180 days validity from the date of issue.

Visa on arrival (VOA) is also available, but if you’re flying in, it requires queueing at the airport – and because of the high volume of flights arriving at IST particularly, it can be a long wait. For some nationalities, it’s also more expensive – 10 USD dearer on average compared to the e-visa according to the official fees (though for US passport holders, VOA is cheaper).

Applying for a Turkish e-visa requires completing a simple online form. The website has English-language support and international card payment, but be warned that sometimes it’s a bit glitchy. Both times I’ve applied, my visa has landed in my inbox almost instantly (within the hour). Be sure to print off the A4 piece of paper to show at immigration.

There are copycat sites out there – the official e-visa portal is located here .

I have never been asked for proof of onward travel or a hotel reservation when entering Turkey. If you want one or both for peace of mind without making an actual booking, then I suggest using OneWayFly .

4. Travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you’re travelling on an e-visa (I haven’t), but rules are rules nonetheless.

Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur. More importantly, local health care can be expensive, so it pays to be covered in case of accident or unexpected illness.

For single-policy or annual trip insurance, I recommend HeyMondo. Get 5% off your policy when you sign up using this link .

Read up on these Istanbul safety tips before you go.

5. Use the Havabus (Havaist) shuttle to travel to/from the airport

Update: Since publishing this guide, both Istanbul airports now have an underground metro service. I would definitely look into this option – avoiding traffic could be a real time-saver. Here are more details .

Havabus is a terrific service for travelling between Istanbul’s airports (yes, there is more than one – see the next point) and the downtown area. Shuttles operate 24/7, with departures in both directions every 30-60 minutes.

Tip: At Sabiha Gokcen airport, the shuttle is called Havabus and at Istanbul Airport, it’s called Havaist. I have used both – they operate in much the same way, but they have separate websites for checking the schedule ( here for Havabus and here for Havaist).

When you land in Istanbul, look for the airport bus signage. At Sabiha Gokcen, the bus stand is located on the other side of the car park directly in front of the arrivals terminal. Tickets are purchased using cash on the bus and cost 37.50 TRY (around 2 USD) per person to go to Taksim.

If you prefer a private transfer, airport cars are very well priced (from $27 to/from either airport). Pre-book a door-to-door airport transfer online here .

Eventually the Istanbul metro will extend to IST Airport, but the line has not been completed yet.

6. There are multiple airports in Istanbul – don’t front up at the wrong one!

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s largest and busiest international airport. Located on the European side in Arnavutkoy, 40km / 45 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square, it is sometimes referred to as ‘Istanbul Grand Airport’ or IGA. If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines or from Europe, there’s a high chance you will be landing at IST.

A second airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), receives flights from the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar ) as well as Turkey’s own Pegasus Airlines. It is located on the Asian side, 40km / 60 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square.

A third airport, Ataturk Airport, closed in 2019.

The two airports are 80km apart and it takes at least 75-90 minutes to travel between them. There are shuttle buses, but if you show up at the wrong one for your flight, there’s a good chance you’ll be left high and dry. Triple-check your reservation and make sure you show up at the correct airport.

We got caught out with this on our first trip and rolled up at the wrong airport for our flight back to Australia. Luckily we had come a day early with the intention of staying the night at the airport hotel, so we still made our flight.

You can use Havabus/Havaist to get back to the airport from the city, too. Buses depart from Taksim Square. Take the metro to Taksim and follow the exit towards Taksim Gezi Park. From there, the station is a short walk (you will see the coaches waiting and two ticket booths on the footpath).

Buses to both airports depart from the same area, so again, triple-check you’re hopping on the right one!

7. Pre-book your accommodation

Hotel platform Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey, so if this is your preferred way to find accommodation, you’ll need to do your browsing and booking before you arrive. (This can be overcome by using a VPN of course.)

Pre-booking is essential for peak-period travel as properties do fill up and prices can skyrocket for last-minute reservations.

I normally use Airbnb in Istanbul for the simple reason that I prefer to stay in local neighbourhoods. Sisli is my district of choice: It has great access to public transport, fantastic local restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.

8. Card is widely accepted, but it helps to carry cash

Ninety-nine percent of venues and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as contactless pay. For small markets and convenience stores, local restaurants, bars and taxis – and when dipping into the wonderful world of Istanbul street food – you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit set on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills also come in handy for tipping (more on that later).

I suggest withdrawing cash when you first arrive and reserving it for smaller purchases and tips. Check out my Istanbul Travel Budget to learn more about budgeting for your trip and the cost of common items and services.

9. Most ATMs in Turkey charge a fee

ATMs are ubiquitous in Istanbul and most of the time, you’ll see half a dozen different cash machines clustered together. Majority charge a withdrawal fee – up to 5% for some banks – and have a transaction limit of between 3000-5000 TRY.

The only no-fee ATM we could find was Ziraat Bank. It’s red with a distinctive wheatear logo. We also used HalkBank, which did not charge us a withdrawal fee, but did hit us with a 13 TRY fee on Wise.

Banks change their fee structure regularly, so you might need to experiment with a few different machines. If the bank does charge a fee – either a flat fee or a percentage – this should always be displayed on the screen before you finalise the transaction.

On our first trip to Turkey, we had issues with our Australian bank cards not being accepted. This time around, I used my Wise card without any issues. I found the best method for withdrawing cash was to exchange stored currency to Turkish lira within the Wise app, then withdraw lira from the ATM.

Wise is great for international travel and offers very competitive exchange rates – if you don’t yet have an account, you can sign up here .

10. Buying a SIM card in Istanbul is easy, but your options are limited

Open WIFI is not readily accessible in Istanbul, which makes buying a local SIM card more or less a necessity.

If you’re not a Turkish citizen and you don’t hold a residency permit, you’ll find you have limited options when it comes to buying a SIM. Low-cost packages are not available to foreigners and most telcos only offer one standard tourist package.

After doing a bit of research, we settled on a Vodafone SIM. Vodafone only has one option for tourists, which includes 20GB of data, calls and texts, and unlimited access to Whatsapp. We paid 350 TRY (around 19 USD).

The process of buying a SIM is very straightforward and only took us about 15 minutes. You need a hard copy of your passport for registration, so make sure you’re carrying it with you. The tourist SIM automatically expires after 60 days.

11. The public transport system is phenomenal

If you’re considering hiring a car in Turkey to continue your travels beyond the city, make sure you pick it up on the outskirts of the city (possible when using a company such as Local Rent ). The traffic is maniacal and I would not recommend driving in the city centre.

There’s no reason to drive a car in Istanbul, anyway: The public transport system is affordable, easy to use and reliable. Between the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and my personal favourite, dolmus vans, you can get anywhere you need to go with ease. Google Maps works well for planning your route.

Dolmus minivans – Turkey’s answer to a marshrutka – are a fun experience. The name literally means ‘stuffed’ because passengers are squeezed in like sardines. Keep in mind that the entire transport network is very busy and squishy during peak hour, especially in the morning between about 8-9.30am.

When boarding a bus in Istanbul, enter through the front door and tap your IstanbulKart on the electronic reader. If the bus is very full, you can board through the back doors and pass your card down the line for someone at the front to swipe.

12. You need an IstanbulKart transport pass

On our first trip to Istanbul, we walked a lot and relied on buying single-journey metro tickets for longer trips. This time around, we re-learned that only certain ticket machines inside the metro dispense single tickets – and usually they are the ones with an obnoxiously long line of people.

An IstanbulKart is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport. There are several different cards available – all are valid for the metro, buses, trams and ferries. The so-called Anonymous IstanbulKart is recommended for tourists and is sold at kiosks and newsstands and inside metro stations for 50 TRY (non-refundable). You can use one card for multiple people (up to five people).

A single IstanbulKart fare costs 7.67 TRY. Compared to the 15 TRY for a single-journey ticket, you’ll end up saving almost 50% on every trip.

Note that metrobus fares vary according to the number of stops travelled, but metro fares are flat. Transfers are charged at 5.49 TRY for the first transfer and 4.17 TRY for the second leg.

Find more information about the public transport system here .

13. Use an app for taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul’s cab system is similarly well organised, with three types of taxis at different price points. Yellow taxis are standard and have the lowest fares (6.3 TL/km plus a switch-on fee of 9.8 TL). Turquoise taxis are a premium service and cost 20% more, while black taxis (always luxury vehicles) are twice as expensive as yellow taxis.

Taxis are metered, so it’s generally considered safe for a tourist to hail a cab on the street. However, scams do happen , which is one of the reasons most people (including many locals) prefer to use an app.

After numerous legal battles, Uber re-launched in Turkey in 2021. We used it on several occasions and found the service to be good – short wait times, friendly drivers, and competitive fares (we always paid in cash rather than hooking up our credit card – make sure you are carrying small bills).

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

14. Tipping is standard

Tipping is customary in Turkey, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash.

Of course you should only tip if you’re satisfied with the service. We found the quality of customer service in Istanbul to be pretty good across the board, with the exception of one chain cafe where we had a terrible experience.

Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to your tellak or natir at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

15. Can you drink the tap water in Istanbul?

This is a rhetorical question, because I’m still not sure what the correct answer is! Locals will warn you off tap water while at the same time, the government is running campaigns to encourage more people to drink from the faucet.

From what I understand, Istanbul tap water was undrinkable a decade ago. Infrastructure improvements (and the addition of chlorine to the water stream) have made tap water safe to drink, but many people still prefer to drink bottled water.

If the building you’re staying in has old, rusty pipes, it might be best to give tap water a wide berth. Try a small quantity and see how it sits with you.

16. Don’t flush your loo paper

Istanbul’s pipes are a bit sensitive, thus most restaurants, cafes and hotels request you place toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it down the loo. If this is the case, you’ll likely see a sign and a strategically placed wastepaper bin. If in doubt, don’t flush it.

17. If you need a bathroom, head to the nearest mosque

After chasing after non-existent bathrooms in malls and metro stations, I finally cottoned onto this little Istanbul tip: There are public toilets attached to most mosques and in my experience, they are almost always cleaner than public bathrooms elsewhere. Pan toilets are common. Men’s rooms are marked with bay , and women’s with bayan .

Some bathrooms are free to use, while others charge a small (1-2 TRY) fee. Another good reason to carry some small bills or coins with you.

18. Sip ayran to keep your tummy happy

Ayran is a savoury yogurt drink that has its roots in Turkey, but is popular around the region (I developed my ayran addiction several years ago in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have been sipping it ever since). It’s not too creamy, not too watery, and has just a hint of salty effervescence.

Because it’s yogurt, it’s full of good bacteria that do wonders to keep your gut in balance. Just as you might drink lassis in India, you can drink ayran in Istanbul to help ward off any potential food or water-related bugs.

Food poisoning definitely does occur in Istanbul, so watch what you eat and try to consume street food earlier in the day when it’s fresher (especially fish wraps and seafood).

People drink ayran with breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is served at virtually every restaurant in Istanbul – either in little plastic tubs or from a fountain. Always go for the fresh option when it’s available: It’s light and aerated and extra delicious, presented with a big scoop of yogurty foam on top.

19. Drinking is common, but alcohol is not ubiquitous

The most popular alcoholic drinks in Istanbul are beer, wine and raki , a powerful spirit distilled from grapes or other fruits. Not all restaurants serve alcohol, however, and when you make your way over to the Asian side of Istanbul (which is noticeably more conservative), you’ll find that only a handful of establishments are licensed.

If you prefer to BYO, tekels are Istanbul’s answer to bottle shops. They normally sell a selection of local bottled beers and Turkish wines along with soft drinks, snack foods and cigarettes. It’s illegal to sell alcohol within 100 metres of a mosque or a school, so you won’t find any tekels in some neighbourhoods.

Sales are restricted to certain times of day – you cannot purchase drinks from a bottle shop between 10am and 6am (there are no restrictions on restaurants and bars, though). Alcohol is served as normal during Ramadan.

Excessive drinking is taboo in Turkish culture. Raki, the national drink, is a social beverage consumed slowly with food. It has aniseed notes and is sometimes served over water and ice, which gives it a milky colour.

If you want to try raki, head to a meyhane (meze bar), where alcohol is served with small places of food (also see point #26 on this list). You can order a small 350 mL bottle or a shot (~40 mL). Start slow – some rakis are 80-90 proof.

20. English is widely spoken (sort of)

The number of Turkish people who speak English is somewhere between 15-20% . Of course the rate is much higher in Istanbul, but still, English is not as widespread as you might imagine.

We found a bit of a paradox here: In big shops and phone stores, very little English was spoken, while we encountered staff who spoke perfect English in small restaurants and humble bakeries.

The bottom line is that it’s a bit of a mixed bag, so be prepared to sign and mime your way through some situations. Of course it helps to have some simple Turkish under your belt – knowing a few basic phrases can help to smooth things over.

Istanbul quirks to know before you go

Here are a few unusual quirks that tripped us up in Istanbul.

21. Pharmacies are hard to find

Turkey differentiates between ‘pharmacies’ and ‘cosmetic stores’ in a way that I’ve not noticed in any other country. The latter sells beauty and health products, but there is no pharmacist on staff and nowhere to buy over-the-counter medications or prescription meds.

Chains such as Watsons, Rossmann and Gratis are classified as ‘cosmetics stores’. If you need anything more serious than paracetamol or a revitalising face mask, you need a pharmacy or eczane .

Eczanesi are more difficult to come by. That’s because there are no chain pharmacies in Turkey. All pharmacies are small and owner-operated by a pharmacist – essentially mom-and-pop shops. You won’t find them in malls, only on the streets. Look for the ‘eczanesi’ sign in the window, and when using Google Maps, search for ‘eczane’ rather than ‘pharmacy’.

Pharmacies are worth hunting down if you need them: Many medicines are freely available in Turkey without a prescription, and prices are almost always cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. You do have to ask around, though, as every pharmacy has different stock and different generic brands. My partner spent several days searching for his medication and after asking at a dozen eczanesi, he finally found what he was looking for at a quarter of the price it is in Georgia.

22. Hand cologne is a thing

Istanbulites were sanitising their hands long before it was cool. The first time we had our hands doused in hand cologne by a friendly waiter, we assumed it was hand sanitiser – but no, this tradition far predates the pandemic.

Kolonya harks back to the days of the Ottoman Empire when a pleasant smelling liquid was sprinkled on guests’ hands as they would enter or exit private homes, hotels or hospitals. Today it’s widely used in restaurants after you pay the check. Some places have a little bottle on the table next to the salt and pepper shakers.

Scented with jasmine, lemon, rosewater or dark spice, a dash of hand cologne leaves your paws smelling fragrant fresh. Unlike hand gel, kolonya is very thin and watery – a little bit goes a long way. And because it’s ethanol-based, it does act as a disinfectant as well.

23. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for your phone number

Grocery stores, cosmetic stores, clothing shops and pharmacies alike seem to ask customers for a local phone number – I assume for marketing purposes rather than to track or register anything. This happened to us on a daily basis, and the first few times, the language barrier made it very confusing.

If you don’t have a local SIM (and even if you do), you can always say no and the cashier will copy a random number off the back of an old receipt.

24. Don’t stay too close to a mosque if you like to sleep in

Istanbul has its own backing track, and that is the sound of the call to prayer ( ezan ). The rumble of minarets whispering to each other is incredibly stirring – but your opinion might be slightly different if you happen to be laying your head near a mosque’s speakerbox every night.

The call to prayer happens five times a day, starting with the pre-dawn İmsak ( Fajr ), which reverberates around the city some time between 4-6am depending on the time of year. In July, it can be as early as 3.30am, with a second Sunrise ( Güneş ) call around 2 hours later.

With well over 3,000 mosques, you’ll more than likely have at least one or two nearby. If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth scoping out the local mosques and choosing accommodation that’s further than earshot from the nearest minaret.

25. Don’t linger too long at a lokanta

Lokanta are a specific type of Turkish restaurant that serve casual, home-style meals to workers and tradesmen. Every neighbourhood has them, and they are a terrific place to sample salt-of-the-earth Turkish cuisine and soak up a bit of local culture at the same time.

When you sit down at a lokanta, a waiter will come to take your order within seconds. Some are cafeteria style, others are a-la-carte. At the end of the meal, empty plates are spirited away and the table sprayed and wiped just as fast as the food came out. Usually you settle the bill at a cash desk rather than requesting a written check.

It’s easy to overstay your welcome at this type of establishment, where the imperative is to turn tables as quickly as possible. They are perfect when you need a quick bite, but if you want a leisurely meal, choose a different sort of restaurant. Sidewalk meyhanes , for example, are the complete opposite. Serving meze and raki, they are designed for long, lingering lunches.

26. Don’t assume those meze plates are free

It’s normal for wait staff at a meyhane to present you with an attractive tray of small plates before they take your order. Turkish meze includes grilled eggplant with yogurt, fava beans, artichoke, and many, many more delicious bites designed for sharing over a bottle of raki.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming these small side salads are free – they are not. (Sides of chopped onion, herbs and chilli served in smaller silver dishes with kebab, on the other hand, are usually included in the price.)

27. Brace yourself for lots of uphill walking

They don’t call Istanbul the ‘City on Seven Hills’ for nothing. After a few days walking the streets, you might think the ‘city of seven million hills’ is a more apt nickname.

Constantinople was laid out in the image of Rome, which was of course built over a septet of hills. On the ground, it feels like all of Istanbul is rippled, with steep streets and vertiginous staircases at almost every turn. There are many advantages to this city plan, the delightfully sloped houses in Balat for one, and the spectacular city views you get from the higher elevations for another.

Comfy shoes and a whole lot of patience are absolutely essential when exploring Istanbul on foot, where it can literally feel like an uphill battle to get from one place to the next.

There are ways to avoid the slog, including using the funicular railways: Taksim-Kabatas and the historic Tunel that links Karakoy and Beyoglu. The latter is the world’s second-oldest subterranean rail line (after the London Underground) and the oldest still-operating underground funicular in Europe.

Istanbul travel tips to feel like a local

While it takes more than a three or four-day stay to feel like a fully fledged Istanbulite, here are a few little tricks to help you fit in.

28. Dress modestly to blend in

Istanbul is a metropolis through and through, with a liberal dress code to match. Almost anything goes, but I still recommend you cover up for comfort and to fit in with the crowd. Women should try to avoid plunging necklines, revealing fabrics, and very short hemlines.

There are noticeable differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with more modest dress and more hijabs worn in Uskudar compared to Eminonu, for example. Generally speaking, Turkey gets more conservative the further east you go, and this holds true even in the city centre. Keep it in mind if you’re travelling around the country.

One place you definitely must observe the dress code is mosques, where covered arms (to the elbow for men or the wrist for women) and legs (down to the ankles) is required. Women must also cover their hair. Majority of mosques have pull-over muumuus that you can borrow (for free) at the door to fully cover up. Note that there are no dress requirements for young kids.

It’s obligatory to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, so on days when you’re sightseeing, wear kicks that you can easily slip off and on. And if you prefer not to go barefoot, carry a pair of ankle socks in the bottom of your bag. Some mosques provide plastic bags, otherwise you can just leave your shoes outside.

29. Never skip breakfast…

Breakfast is certainly the most important meal of the day in Turkey. Sunday breakfast is the queen of the morning meals, when the famous kahvalti tabagi ‘spread breakfast’ comes into its own.

On a Sunday, some Istanbulites spend the better part of the day between mid-morning and late afternoon gathered around the breakfast table with friends or family, noshing on an extravagant spread of cheeses, olives, cut vegetables and eggs served with supple somun bread. Kahvalti is a daily occurrence in places like Besiktast ‘Breakfast Street’ and in gourmet cafes such as Van Kahvalti.

If you’re on a tight timeline or a budget, breakfast doesn’t have to be drawn-out or expensive: There are faster and more affordable options, such as a pick-and-choose breakfast at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu, where small plates range from 2-8 TRY each. 

Borekcisi (borek bakeries) serve portions of steaming hot filled pastry and chai, or for a simple breakfast snack on the go, grab a simit bagel from a street vendor.

30. …But don’t order coffee first thing

Kahvalti means ‘before coffee’. Breakfast is traditionally accompanied by cay , strong black tea, rather than Turkish coffee. It’s normal to down half a dozen glasses of tea in a single sitting (though two or three is usually enough). Most sit-down kahvalti breakfasts come with two pots of tea.

If you want to do things like a local, save your Türk kahvesi for after lunch and start your morning with cay sade – strong and bitter tea with no sugar – instead.

31. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the bazaar

Haggling is customary and expected at markets in Istanbul and in other commercial settings. You’ll find that most items at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar have a price tag, but for those that don’t (and even for those that do), it’s quite normal to bargain for a better price. This is especially true if you’re buying more than one of something or multiple items from the same vendor. Rule of thumb is to aim for a 35-50% discount on the sticker price.

There are huge mark-ups at the Grand Bazaar, which seems to be almost exclusively the domain of tourists these days. There are local markets and street markets all over Istanbul where you’ll have a better chance of striking gold for a fair figure. Markets are held on different days of the week and following a rotating schedule, so you can always find something on. Popular food and flea markets take place in Karakoy (Tuesdays), Ortakoy (Thursdays), Uskudar (Fridays), and Besiktas (Saturdays).

If you do decide to brave the Grand Bazaar or another historic market in Istanbul, the best advice I’ve heard is to do your shopping in the mid-morning. It’s more likely that vendors have already made a few sales and met their daily commission targets, so there will be less pressure on you.

32. Don’t fall for the ‘shoe cleaner trick’

This one got us good.

One early morning we were walking down an alleyway in Besiktas when we heard a clack on the cobbles and noticed that someone had dropped a wooden shoe brush. Being the saint he is, my partner rushed to pick it up without a second thought and handed it back to the shoe cleaner whose caddy it had tumbled from.

Expressing his profound thanks, the guy promptly took a seat on the curb at our feet and insisted on shaking my husband’s hand in gratitude. That’s when he grabbed him by the wrist in a monkey grip and tried to pull him down for a coerced shoe cleaning. I should mention that he was wearing joggers, not leather shoes!

Neither of us were aware of this common scam at the time, so we thought the whole situation was quite hilarious. The man had a gorgeous smile and was very friendly – we actually gave him credit for this ingenious trick.

Only later when we heard about the scam did we realise what had (almost) happened to us. Ross managed to talk his way out of it, dirty shoes still intact.

We were not mad in the slightest, but it could have been a different story had we actually been talked into handing over cash. Keep an eye out for this trick, especially in touristy areas.

33. Embrace cat culture

There are up to a million cats and kittens living on the streets of Istanbul. Every cafe is a cat cafe, and every corner has its own posse of cute pusses. A picture-perfect clowder of cats lounging on fence posts and chairs like the princes and princesses they are awaits you at every turn.

Similar to street dogs in Georgia , the cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves. We definitely encountered a few fiercer felines on our travels – it’s pretty obvious which cats want pats and which ones need their personal space. They will let you know with a dagger stare or a hiss.

Cat culture can be traced back to Ottoman times, when tabbys helped to quash the city’s mice population. In this respect, cats are an inseparable part of the city’s social fabric.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many cats living rough, especially when they’re not in the best shape. (Though I must say that every cat I met in Istanbul was plump and rosy.) It helps to know that Istanbul (and all of Turkey) has a no-kill, no capture policy.

34. Brush up on your basic hammam etiquette

Partaking in a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. The hammams have aeons of history and custom attached to them – there are definite dos and don’ts, just as there are with the sulfur baths in Tbilisi . It helps to know how to handle things once the towels come out, lest you embarrass yourself.

Regarding nakedness, men normally strip down to nothing while women wear undies (single-use pairs are supplied by most bathhouses) then don a pestemal towel, which stays wrapped around you for the duration of your stay.

The Turkish-style skin peel/massage ( kese ) can be quite rough on the skin and muscles. The therapist, known as a natir or tellak , will always be of the same gender. It’s customary to tip them 10-20% after your treatment.

For more Turkish hammam hints, see this guide .

More helpful Istanbul tips to make the most of your visit

Finally, here are a handful of practical tips for planning your itinerary and getting the most out of your time in Istanbul.

35. Organise your Istanbul itinerary by neighbourhood/district

Istanbul has 39 districts, each with its own character and appeal. From the Instagrammable houses and antique shops in Balat, to the trendy cafes in Cihangir, the rambunctious fish market in Uskudar to the Ottoman-era mansions in Arnavutkoy , every corner of the city has something incredible up its sleeve.

A great way to organise your time in Istanbul is by planning your movements around the different neighbourhoods. Each one is quite discreet, so you can knock out a to-do list before moving onto the next.

Some neighbourhoods naturally pair together thanks to geography and transport logistics: Galata and Karakoy, Fener and Balat, Uskudar and Kadikoy, Cihangir and Cukurcuma. See my Istanbul 4-day itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your visit by district.

38. Consider signing up for a food tour

One thing every Istanbul neighbourhood has in common is its never-ending supply of cafes, restaurants and street food vendors. One of the best ways to discover the city – especially if you’re on a tight timeline – is by signing up for a food tour.

I was lucky enough to join Culinary Backstreets’ Born on the Bosphorus tour during my most recent visit to Istanbul. It was one of the highlights of my trip – not only because of the delicious food, but mainly thanks to our incredible guide, Benoit, who over the course of a full day taught me so much about Istanbul’s food and beyond.

The popular Taste of Two Continents tour, with 11 food stops and a Bosphorus ferry crossing, is a good alternative if you’re looking for a half-day experience.

37. Get an early start to beat the crowds

This is particularly important in summer, when the touristy parts of the city get extremely crowded. One of the best ways to avoid long waits at landmarks such as Galata Tower is by waking up early and arriving as doors open.

The metro starts running at 6am – and from Friday evening to Sunday morning public transport operates 24/7 – so there’s no excuse not to get out in the early AM.

38. Invest in a Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass

There is a gamut of different tourist cards and passes available for Istanbul. The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass or the 2-7 day E-Pass is one of the best investments you can make if you plan on doing the rounds through the city’s best museums and big attractions.

The digital pass gives you skip-the-queue access to 10 of the city’s finest cultural institutions, including Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace and the Harem, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum.

Available to purchase online before you arrive, it uses a simple QR code system. Just show your pass on your mobile – no need to print anything.

Only buy the pass if it makes sense for you, though: You have to visit multiple attractions for it to pay off, though the other perks – particularly the ability to skip the ticket line – are invaluable in a sense.

Purchase the official Istanbul E-Pass here via Viator .

39. Check prayer times in advance

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are both active mosques, open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Except during prayer times, that is.

All of Istanbul’s mosques temporarily close to non-Muslim visitors five times a day for a period of about 90 minutes. For the duration of the Congregational Prayers, no tourists are permitted to enter.

It’s imperative to check prayer times in advance. If you show up while prayers are on, you will be met with a long wait outside. Times are signposted at the bigger mosques or you can check online .

The queue to enter the Hagia Sophia gets very long towards the end of the prayer session. The best time to visit is 30-40 minutes before the mosque is scheduled to close. Don’t try to visit on Fridays when the Jumu’ah prayer takes place – this is one of the busiest times, and it’s always crowded and chaotic.

If your Istanbul visit coincides with Ramadan or another Islamic holiday, prayer times might be different and mosques might be closed for longer periods during the day.

40. Skip the Bosphorus cruise – take advantage of local ferries instead

Some people opt to experience the Bosphorus on board a yacht at sunset with champagne and nibbles. If your budget won’t stretch that far, or you just prefer a local experience, then a ride on the public ferry offers the same ambiance and water views for a fraction of the price.

Hundreds of ferries criss-cross the strait, linking Istanbul’s Asian and European sides. The most scenic ferry routes include Besiktas to Kadikoy, Karakoy to Uskudar, and Karakoy to Kadikoy. Some boats go up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea, and others head in the opposite direction towards the Princes’ Islands.

Bring a simit bagel to snack on (and to lure seagulls in for photos), or order a tulip-shaped glass of tea from one of the roving vendors on board.

41. Don’t miss the sunset from Galata Bridge

There is only one way to end a day in Istanbul in my opinion, and that’s by watching the sun go down from Galata Bridge. It might be touristy as heck, but there’s a good reason why this is such a popular spot. Views of the glittering water and intertwining boats, mosque minarets silhouetted against a dusky blue sky framed by fishermen casting their lines off the edge of the bridge, are absolute gold.

I recommend finding a spot to stand on the western side of the bridge, above the area where the Karakoy ferry docks. Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset for the best light.

For the perfect Istanbul photo, wait patiently for the garbage truck to come down the street and dump its load in the bins near the ferry terminal – this sends the seagulls into a frenzy, and they fill the skies with their spinning and diving for a good 15 minutes.

42. ‘Authentic’ Whirling Dervish ceremonies still exist – here’s how to find one

Speaking of Istanbul must-dos: A Whirling Dervish show is a bucket-list item for many. I was warned that all Mevlevi Sema ceremonies had become commercialised and ‘spoiled’ by tourists to the point where they just weren’t worth pursuing any more. So I made it my mission to find a real, ‘authentic’ Sema ritual in Istanbul, and I’m happy to say that I eventually did.

Get all the details about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul in this guide .

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

• 1-4 day Istanbul itinerary
• Istanbul travel budget
• The ultimate guide to eating out in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Galata Tower for Istanbul city views
• The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
• Guide to Arnavutkoy, Istanbul’s most beautiful district
• The best places to visit in Turkey
• Turkey in winter: Where to go plus travel tips

12 Comments

Detailed tips are super helpful, especially about the best time to visit and the ins and outs of public transport.

Thank you. Right now in Turkey with wife and kids. Following your steps and recommendations. Just one thing: booking asked for a price but the hotel converted the price to Liras and charged me much more for exactly the same booking and service! Thank you again,

I love your travel blog! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs make me feel like I’m right there with you. It’s inspiring to see someone embracing adventure and exploring new cultures. Keep the travel stories coming!

Excellent article and links for further information. I am planning a trip to Turkey in September with my wife and your articles a great start and support. Great job! Alejandro

This is very, very helpful. Thank you so much.

Early in your article you indicated that Booking.com does not work in Turkey, yet in the section, entitled “Turkey Essentials”, you direct us to that site for Hotels. Maybe I am missing something, but that appears to be contradictory. I found the article very helpful…..Thanks for the information.

Hi JB – I still recommend using Booking, only you have to reserve from outside of Turkey ie. before you arrive.

Thanks so much, this was really helpful. Lots of good to know stuff that I didn’t find mentioned elsewhere

it was very helpful thank you

Ha, I made the same mistake again and didn’t read through your info thoroughly. In Georgia, I paid more than I needed to for a SIM at the airport and this time, I could have saved a few lira on a bank withdrawal in Istanbul.

Already appreciating the smiles and kindness in Istanbul very much.

Love your work Emily.

Perhaps it’s different for Australian passport holders, but I found the VOA to be a better deal than the eVisa for Americans. Our eVisas were fast and easy to get, but cost $50 plus a 2 dollar service fee. We got them before traveling to Turkey last year, but went twice to make them a better value. This past month we got VOA (no lines) and paid 25 euros each. Both are valid for 6 months. Plus you get a little visa stamp in your passport!

Thanks Owen for the info – you’re right, VOA is more affordable for US passport holders, but not for us Aussies unfortunately! I would have loved a visa stamp. I’ll update that now. Cheers!

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TAKE BACK THE NIGHT: THE 10 BEST CLUBS IN ISTANBUL

The bustling city of Istanbul was once known as the most important city in the world for over 1500 years. With a population of nearly 18 million people, it is easy to say that the clubs in Istanbul are amongst the best in the world.

Istanbul has a lot to offer tourists from all walks of life, there are extraordinary churches, ancient ruins, numerous museums, palaces, bathhouses, beautiful culture, and incredibly delicious food.

For those who want to experience the Istanbul nightlife, the diversity of nightclubs will not disappoint. From glitzy lounges, outrageous gay clubs, nightclubs in ancient buildings, to trendy venues, there is something for everyone to dance the night away, and make new friends that will last a lifetime.

However, with dozens of clubs in Istanbul to choose from, how do you choose which ones to see while you are there?

Put on your dancing shoes and keep on reading to find out the top 10 clubs that you must see in Istanbul.

1. 360 Istanbul

Just as the name suggests, this rooftop bar hosts one of the best views of the entire city. Enjoy a fancy craft cocktail as you bask in the 360-degree views of Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and the Sea of Marmara at night.

This nightclub is located on the Penthouse of a 19th-century apartment building, offering a taste of history as an added perk. This is more than just a nightclub, 360 Istanbul offers incredible cuisine, craft drinks, and a DJ every weekend that will play until the sun comes up.

If you are feeling posh and fabulous, head over to Ruby and experience one of the most exotic clubs that Istanbul has to offer. Ruby consists of a three-story mansion, with not one-but two nightclubs located inside.

There is also a fabulous restaurant on the balcony area, and it is conveniently located on the shore of Bosphorus, where you can take in panoramic views of the city at night.

3. Supperclub

Supperclub will bring out the inner party animal within you with its live DJs, live performances that play until the wee hours of the morning. It doesn’t stop at that though, Supperclub has amongst the best cocktail menu in all of Istanbul, along with chic white decor and beach beds to get comfortable as you take in the scenes of people watching.

If you are still feeling energized after 2 AM, X-large has something to offer night owls like you. They have insanely packed parties that start at 2 AM and go until the wee hours of 5 AM.

Dance right through the sunrise with top 10 trance DJ’s, incredible light shows, cheap cocktails, and friendly crowds. Be ready to party, as there is no chance of feeling tired once you are in this upbeat atmosphere.

X-large is also home to Istanbul’s gay scene, so do not be surprised if you see Lady Gaga impersonators walking around, and many extravagant costumes being worn by the friendliest of entertainers.

5. Masquerade Club

In terms of something unique to offer, Masquerade Club tops this list.

Masquerade Club is a must-see experience, there is nothing better than sipping on fancy craft cocktails while watching dancers above you in the air.

Located in the Karakoy neighborhood, Mitte has something to offer all types of partiers that have a fine taste for delicious cocktails.

Come early and enjoy a fine dinner surrounded by the sleek decor and cool vibes, then stick around as the DJ lights up the night with top hits for everyone to enjoy.

If you are into subterranean playgrounds with suspended dancers flying above the dance floor, you must experience the unique nightclub known as Klein.

Klein is only a small walking distance from Taksim square, and it may pull you in by the luxurious Kitsch decor, which is truly something extraordinary and different than the other clubs.

The DJ’s play top electronic music from 23:00 until 0400, so put on your dancing shoes and get ready for an incredible night.

8. Jolly Joker

If you are more of the live music kind of person, Jolly Joker is your place to be. This club is specifically designed to host all sorts of live performances and have the best sound around the city.

You may even get your first experience of Turkish rock music, or hear some soul-soothing jazz tunes from a local band. All of this while you are soaking up the scenes of an old pub design, it is not to be missed!

9. Taksim Club IQ

Have you ever been in a nightclub while listening to a live gypsy band? Not many people can claim that they have. Soak up this experience while dancing the night away at Taksim Club IQ.

Not only is the in-house band incredible, but there are cheap beers on tap, and different tunes offered almost every night of the week. If you are on a budget, Taksim Club IQ is the perfect place for you to hang your jacket and soak up the local sounds.

10. Jungle 8

Located right in the middle of Istanbul’s clubbing district, Beyoğlu, is the best electro bar, Jungle 8. Here you will find big named and local DJs spinning until the wee hours with the best beats to make your ears and your dancing feet happy.

Ready To Experience the Best Clubs in Istanbul?

Now that you have the ultimate list of the best clubs in Istanbul, it is time to experience all that this incredible city has to offer.

If you would like to learn more about what else to see and do in Istanbul, check out the Istanbul section of our website with the best resources to ensure you have the best experience.

Contact us now to book your private guide for a bar crawl experience, we have the keys!

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The 5 Best Clubs in Istanbul

What’s backpacking without a debaucherous behaviour now and then eh? With that in mind, after getting your teeth sunk into the cultural side of Turkey with their 10 Unesco World Heritage Sites , and their hot air balloons in Cappadocia . It’s time to cut loose and Istanbul is the city to do it. Enjoy the 5 best clubs in Istanbul!

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The one you are looking for if you need cheap booze and crazy music. The music is predominantly house, there are special shows-attractions like hanging upside down girls, dancing girls on the tables and numerous DJs spinning tunes. You don’t need to come with a girl, with is a huge plus for us lonely backpackers!

A small cubbyhole down a side street in Tünel, hidden behind a heavy curtain, Off Pera was – until recently – often completely empty, despite being within stumbling distance of the city’s best restaurants and drinking holes. In recent months, however, it has become a bit of an open secret as one of the best clubs in Istanbul. Though it has retained all of its charm. With little floor space, the dance floor rapidly absorbs the club. If you can fight your way into the bar, dance the night away to Turkish and European pop under an extraordinary ceiling of flashing LEDs, presided over by DJs in a bunk bed-like booth halfway up the wall.

Asmalimescit Mahallesi, Gönül Sokak 14A, Beyoğlu, +90 212 249 2697

Indigo is the home of Istanbul’s electro scene. Large, and crowded at weekends, it sits right in the middle of Beyoğlu – the city’s clubbing district. With big-name international and local DJs spinning techno, house, electro and disco, it packs a crowd who come primarily to dance. The owners have gradually spread their way through the neighbourhood – down the road is their bar, Indigo Pub, and their newest venture, multipurpose space Indigo Lounge; no wonder they boast that you can spend an entire day hanging out in Indigo venues.

Istiklal Caddesi, Akarsu Sokak 1-2-4-5, Beyoğlu, +90 212 244 8567

With its live in-house Gypsy band, cheap beer on tap, and location – just off the perpetually buzzing Nevizade Sokak – it’s little wonder that Araf is a student favourite. It’s perched at the top of a dilapidated Beyoğlu building. It takes numerous flights of stairs to reach the bar. Its large windows look out over the run-down mansion houses of Tarlabaşi. Expect throngs of local and international students dancing to authentic Gypsy sounds. While the DJs play reggae, funk, soul and rock’n’roll. Thursday night has dependable music. Celebrated Roma clarinettist Selim Sesler plays on Tuesdays. Avoid the madness of the weekend, when the DJ plays more generic tracks and the club swells to two floors.

Hüseyinağa Mahallesi, Balo Sokak 32, Beyoğlu, +90 212 244 8301  

Walking into 11.11 feels like entering a Day-Glo polyhedron. An array of colours flow across geometric back-lit panels on the walls and ceiling. And after a few hours you might not know which is which. Open Fridays and Saturdays, local DJs are joined by visiting acts roughly once a fortnight (the bigger-name DJs entail a ticket). The soundtrack is emphatically house. Ambient house in the lounge and deep house in the club. Like so many of the city’s indoor venues, 11.11 closes for the summer. But when it’s open, expect to find it packed.

Meşrutiyet Caddesi 69, Beyoğlu 34330, +90 212 244 8834

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Istanbul is a vibrant city whose grandiose history is utterly fascinating. Take a stroll around the city and admire the amazing mosques, museums and the Great Bazaar, or even visit an authentic Turkish bath.

A meal often begins with meze—a number of small dishes such as aubergine purée, börek, various salads and cheese. Filling vegetables such as tomatoes, paprika, aubergines and zucchini with rice and minced meat is typically Turkish (dolmasi). There are special restaurants that only serve kebab or köfte, meatballs, look for Kebabci or Köfteci. Simpler restaurants are called Lokanta.

Coffee has played an important role in Turkish lifestyle and culture so there is no wonder that Istanbul offers many old and new cafés. Why not try a cup of traditional Turkish coffee or tea which is served in a tiny gracious cup?

Bars & Nightlife

The really trendy places are outside the city centre, in Etiler, Levent and Ortaköy, but there’s also plenty to do around Taksim.

Istanbul has become a major shopping destination for several categories of travellers. Some tourist are looking for exoticized outdoor markets, bazaars, carpet and kilim workshops, copper working shops, antique and handicraft stalls — and the city definitely delivers on this promise. Another cohort of visitors is coming to Istanbul for luxury brands and exclusive antique shops. No matter your preferences, you can be sure that your shopping needs and desires will be met. Istanbul is big enough to support multiple shopping districts with boutiques, small shops, covered bazaars and enormous shopping malls.

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5 romantic date spots in istanbul to visit this spring.

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The Galata Tower, seen from the rooftops in Beyoglu, with the Blue Mosque in the background, a ... [+] historic Genovese tower towering over the Istanbul skyline is in the Galata neighbourhood in Beyoglu district.

Destinations like Paris and Rome tend to get all the credit when it comes to romance — but Istanbul should not be overlooked as a love-fueled city. The historical charm and confluence of cultures give Istanbul a mysterious allure that lends itself incredibly well to date night.

If you have a trip to Istanbul with your partner on the horizon, you’ll want to consider adding the following addresses to your itinerary. These hotels, restaurants, bars, and spas will make the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable date that’s plenty with amorous appeal:

Nardis Jazz Club

There’s nothing quite like a night in an intimate jazz bar to stir up a little romance—and Nardis is exactly what you’d conjure up in your mind when thinking of an ideal spot to get cozy and enjoy great local music. The compact jazz club has a rotating calendar of local and visiting jazz musicians. Note that the seating is first come, first served, so you’ll want to arrive in advance if you want a spot by the stage.

Viktor Levi Şarap Evi

Did you know that Turkey is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world? While you’re in Istanbul you’ll want to take advantage of your proximity to delicious old-world wine and Viktor Levi Şarap Evi on the Asian side is a great spot for getting to know Turkish wine. The stunning dining space is also worth checking out—be sure to book a table on the back patio for a cozy but elegant experience.

Tuğra Restaurant in Çirağan Palace Kempinski

Çirağan Palace Kempinski is arguably the most romantic hotel in Istanbul—but its on-property Tuğra Restaurant is arguably the most romantic place in Istanbul. You’re likely to see engagements at this high-end restaurant on any night and it’s easy to see why. The stunning spot sits right on the Bosphorus and offers stunning views of the strait—especially at sunset. What’s more, the Michelin-recommended restaurant offers a unique and decadent take on Turkish cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

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There’s a local myth in Istanbul that you’ll wind up marrying the person you climb the Galata Tower with if it's both of your first time doing so—which makes this former watchtower an incredibly special spot for loved-up couples to visit while in town. It also happens to have spectacular views from the top, if you need another reason to climb the 146 steps to the top (don’t worry—there’s also an elevator). Note that the tower is currently closed for construction but should be opening back up by the late spring.

Navitas Spa Cistern

There’s something inherently romantic about going to the spa together—so imagine the levels of romance baked into a private spa experience in a thousand-year-old underground cistern. The Navitas Spa Cistern allows you and your partner to bathe in the ancient underground chamber, an unforgettable experience that’s made even better if you pair it with a couple’s massage.

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Best Executive Or Club Lounges At Hotels In Istanbul

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We have reviewed hotels in Istanbul with the best club or executive lounges to help you decide on the best choice, whether you are traveling as a couple, a family, or as a single business traveler. By reviewing each of these club lounges, in turn, I conclude which hotel club lounge comes in at the top and which hotel I would select as having the best club lounge in Istanbul.

If you want club lounge access for free, book a standard room at a hotel that partners with our luxury travel concierge , and you will get a room upgrade and free club lounge access. This free lounge access has to be one of the best hotel deals available.

Luxury hotels in Istanbul, Turkey, include Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Raffles Istanbul, Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul, Park Hyatt Istanbul, Macka Palas, Shangri-La Bosphorus, and Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, on the coast outside Istanbul.

I have compiled a list below containing the club lounges available across luxury hotels in Istanbul. I list the lounges in Istanbul that I consider to be the best of the best. I will be reviewing each of these hotel club lounges in detail so that you know what you will get if you book a room with club lounge access or upgrade to a club lounge for free because of your loyalty status.

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul is a gorgeous luxury hotel located in the heart of Istanbul’s most prestigious Dolmabahce district. Approximately 30 minutes from the Istanbul Atatürk International Airport and walking distance to many of the city’s cultural attractions, designer shops, Old City, and vibrant Beyoglu. This hotel comes in at 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy reward points if you want to redeem your points for a stay here.

A cheaper Marriott Bonvoy option is the Hotel Renaissance Polat Istanbul, which comes in at number 3 in this club lounge listing and costs around half the price of the Ritz-Carlton in both cash and points. Bear in mind that while the Renaissance is cheaper, it is not as well located and does not offer the same level of luxury as the Ritz-Carlton.

243 Ritz-Carlton guest rooms include 21 well-appointed suites, and 57 Club Rooms offer Turkish-inspired style and décor, housekeeping service twice a day, 24-hour room service, evening turn-down service, and everything else you would expect from a 5-star hotel. Oversized marble bathrooms offer a separate rain shower, bathtub, and plush terry robes and slippers. We recommend requesting a “Front Bosphorus View”, ideally on the 9th floor or higher, to get a truly incredible vista from your room.

The hotel’s newly designed restaurant Atelier Real Food prides itself on an open kitchen, offering contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. The Atelier Lounge is a specially designed place to meet, eat and drink, offering bite-sized, Mediterranean-inspired, upscale contemporary Turkish cuisine overlooking the Bosphorus. Bleu Lounge is the main bar where you can enjoy an unforgettably illuminated ambiance of the Bosphorus. Smooth tunes and live music programs also fill the venue with vibrant live performers playing the latest hits.

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul, offers a unique Open-Air Spa, an urban oasis on the second floor’s rooftop. The Open Air Spa offers complete wellness subsumed within a spa program and accompanied by the legendary sight of the sea and the greens of the Bosphorus. A lap pool and two Jacuzzis at different temperatures are available for relaxing under the blue Mediterranean sky. The Spa also has an indoor swimming pool as well as authentic Turkish Hamam offering a traditional experience.

The Club lounge on the 12th floor offers a traditional lounge with incredible views and an exclusive food and drink service five times a day, along with high-speed Wi-Fi. It is open from 6:30 am – 10:00 pm. An exciting assortment of food presentations in the club lounge are designed to tempt you, and complimentary drinks are served throughout the day, whenever you want them.

You cannot get free access to this lounge. You either need to book a Club Level room or pay a fee of around €100 EUR plus tax for non-Platinum Bonvoy members or €75 EUR plus tax for Platinum members. This is your best club lounge option in Istanbul for both food quality and quantity, as well as luxury ambiance.

2. InterContinental Istanbul

Istanbul is divided into three distinct areas: Old Town (with all the historical sites), New Town (known as Beyoglu) across the Golden Horn, and the Asian side of the city across the Bosphorus.

InterContinental Istanbul is a luxury hotel located on the European side of Istanbul, in a commercial area near the airport but too far from the Old Town to walk there. In fact, it is just across the street from the Grand Hyatt, reviewed below. The advantage of this location, other than the easy airport access, is the extraordinary views.

The hotel is a high-rise, modern, and grand. Many rooms have views of the Bosphorus, and we suggest you request one of these. The outdoor pool here is also very luxurious and another reason to stay here.

The Club InterContinental Lounge (pictured above), is located on the 16th floor, provides the exclusive atmosphere of a club lounge with continental breakfast, described as a lavish open buffet, snacks, and drinks throughout the day, and enough food in the evening to make up main-syle dishes and fill you up. There is also a boardroom for those who want to hold meetings. The views from the lounge are back inland, away from Taksim, and down to the Bosphorus, so you can watch the boats pass up and down on this busy corridor of the deep blue sea.

If you decide to dine outside the lounge, the City Lights Restaurant & Bar is the place to go, with incredible views from one side of the city to the other. This InterContinental costs 50,000 Rewards points per night and is one of the best club lounge choices in Istanbul, and is the best IHG branded hotel in Istanbul.

3. Grand Hyatt Istanbul

The Grand Hyatt Istanbul is in the same modern area of the city as the InterContinental, but it is easy enough to get wherever you want to go. This large property is located near Taksim Square and directly across the street from the Faculty of Architecture of Istanbul Technical University. It is also a short walk to Istiklal Avenue. The Grand Hyatt Istanbul is a Category 4 hotel, requiring 15,000 World Of Hyatt points per night for a standard room redemption.

This hotel has multiple restaurant options, a spa, and a fitness center, which is a small but well-equipped gym and a super pool with lovely comfy padded loungers and lots of greenery.

While you may not have high expectations for this hotel, I think you will be pleasantly surprised. The hotel’s grounds are beautiful, and the pool, which is only open during the summer, is surrounded by comfy lounge chairs on various levels of terraces. Free water bottles are available by the pool. The guest rooms at this Hyatt are a good size, and the club lounge is great!

During the day, the club lounge is stocked with lots of different non-alcoholic beverages, cookies, biscottis, and pastries. In the morning, breakfast is good with a nice continental spread and a couple of hot egg and meat dishes, should you choose to order. You can also choose from a variety of bread, meats, cheese, and fruits at the buffet. Happy hour is served every day and offers appetizers that are more than enough to fill you entirely for dinner. Alcoholic drinks available include complimentary beer and wine, and the staff here are excellent, bringing you drinks and clearing your plates with efficiency.

When comparing the Grand Hyatt vs. the Park Hyatt, which is the other luxury Hyatt property in Istanbul, the Park Hyatt is far more luxurious and stylish. The Grand Hyatt remains a great choice, too, with a club lounge (there’s no club lounge at the Park Hyatt) along with a great pool. The Park Hyatt has an equally good pool, so your decision between these hotels really depends on the price in cash or points that you are prepared to pay. The Park Hyatt is the more expensive of the two hotels.

4. Renaissance Polat Istanbul Hotel

Istanbul is a city with a unique history, and one of the best panoramas in the world can be found in the Renaissance Polat Istanbul Hotel, which towers above the city. This rewards category three property is a comparative bargain if you are redeeming Bonvoy points, at around 17,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. This is much cheaper than the Ritz-Carlton point redemption rates outlined above. Platinum Bonvoy members get free access to this executive lounge, and both the lounge and the property have been recently renovated. Plus, there is a nice pool here, making this a great and good value choice in Istanbul.

Renaissance Istanbul Polat Bosphorus Hotel is located on the European side of Istanbul, in Besiktas, midway between the areas of Taksim and Levent. The hotel is near the airport, so perfect for a layover, and is a very strong near-airport hotel. Compared to the Sheraton Atakoy, the Renaissance wins on almost every point.

The hotel is within walking distance of key Istanbul shopping malls, business centers, and Bosphorus’s main boat harbor. Taksim Square is only a few minutes away by subway. You have very easy access to Old City, Saint Sophia Museum, Sultanahmet Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar, as well as to the Asian side by the Bosphorus Bridge. If you want, you can take the subway into town, or you can take a $20 USD, 20-minute cab ride into town.

The hotel is conveniently close to the airport, and it has an airport shuttle and a daily shuttle into town and back, which takes about 25 minutes to the Old City. Being a shuttle ride from the old city rather than being able to step out of the foyer into the Old City is the main disadvantage of this hotel. Instead, this hotel is in a leafy, suburban neighborhood, with a couple of serviceable restaurants nearby but not much else.

The Hotel Renaissance Polat Istanbul club lounge is one floor below reception, and it has views of the pool. There is also a nice outdoor terrace. The seating space inside is slightly limited, but the lounge is stylish and is open seven days a week, serving snacks and drinks throughout the day. A massive highlight of this club lounge is the huge terrace area overlooking the pool.

The rooms here are well-designed and stylish, with plenty of technology. If you can, upgrade to or book a Bosphorus room for the views (Platinum Bonvoy members usually get an automatic upgrade to a room with a view at this hotel).

The rooftop bar & restaurant also offers a truly amazing view of the Bosphorus and the city’s historical peninsula and is a “must-do” if you stay here.

5. Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus

Hotel Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus is located out of the main center in a quiet area. While it’s an easy walk to Taksim and Istiklal and the entrance to the public transit system is very close to the hotel, it takes a lengthy 30 – 40 mins to get from the Hilton to Old Town and center using public transport, trams, and funiculars.

While some like to go to Old Town to see the sites and then retreat to the peacefulness of the Hilton, most feel that their stay would be more enjoyable if the hotel were located in the Old City/Sultanahmet area, so you can make use of the restaurants and are nearby the sites. So the location of this Hilton is a major minus point of this hotel.

The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, with all the amenities one would expect from a Hilton. Be careful with your view, as rooms looking out to the back of the building have a pretty dismal view.

It is worth knowing that Hilton Honours Gold members get a free breakfast either in the executive lounge or in the Terrace restaurant at this Hilton. The Terrance restaurant offerings for breakfast are better than the executive lounge, with some additional buffet stations, so eat there if you have the choice.

Whatever your membership level, book a Business room with an executive lounge, and you get a room with a king-sized Hilton Serenity Bed and executive lounge access, serving complimentary continental breakfast, drinks, and snacks throughout the day, plus evening happy hour with canapes and alcoholic drinks along with private check-in and check-out.

This is a useful club lounge as you can pick up snacks and drinks at any time of the day and hot food around meal times and snacks otherwise. The continental breakfast in the morning and canapes in the evening are decent. Not spectacular, but sufficient. The executive lounge also has a great view.

An alternative Hilton property to consider, which doesn’t have a club lounge, is the Doubletree by Hilton in Old Town. The tram literally stops almost in front of the door, and it is an easy walk to see the sights in Old Town. As a Hilton Gold member, you get free breakfast, and the breakfast is excellent.

6. Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia

7. hotel the marmara taksim.

Hotel, The Marmara Taksim is a 5-star hotel in Istanbul. Book into a newly renovated Club Room, averaging 25 m² (82 ft), to get club lounge access included. These clubrooms are located on the uppermost floors of the hotel and feature a desk and armchair, a comfortable sofa bed, and a built-in closet, in addition to the marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and chic vanity units. Non-smoking rooms are available.

With the club room, you have complimentary access to the exclusive club lounge located on the 19th floor and offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and the historic peninsula, Sultanahmet. Club lounge perks include a newspaper service (Turkish and English), express check-in & check-out at the club lounge, complimentary soft drinks, cookies, tea, and coffee at the club lounge all day, daily washing, dry cleaning, or ironing service for one piece, bottled water, and Nespresso machine in the rooms, shoeshine for a pair of shoes during the stay, 20% discount on SPA services at T floor and 15% discount on all chocolates in Chocolate Shop located at G floor, as well as two hours of meeting room usage for maximum eight-person upon availability.

Complimentary food offerings include a buffet breakfast, a teatime buffet, and an alcoholic drink buffet.

8. WOW Istanbul Hotel

WOW, Istanbul Hotel is located 1 km from Istanbul International Airport, Ataturk Airport. It is also around 200 m walking distance from Istanbul Exhibition Center and CNR Expo Center, where exhibitions are organized. You can use the metro to go to historical places such as Topkapi. Sultanahmet is in the garden of the facility.

Renovated in 2014, WOW Istanbul Hotel features 56 executive rooms, three suites, and 216 standard rooms. This is, however, not a luxury hotel. You’ve got a choice of a room facing the airport and suffering from the sound of aircraft which run throughout the night, or a room facing the other direction where you have the metro, which runs until midnight.

Restaurant Mezzanine and Choppers Point serve Turkish and world cuisine, and there is a swimming pool on the top floor, covered by a glass ceiling, a fitness center, a Turkish bath, a sauna, a massage salon, and Vitamin Bar. Just don’t be tricked into thinking that this is a 5-star luxury hotel, or you will be disappointed.

The 56 rooms on the “Executive Floor” have access to the executive lounge, which offers special catering buffets specially designed for their most exclusive guests, but this remains our worst club lounge choice in Istanbul because of the basic rooms and the noise suffered in these rooms.

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Istanbul Insider

Istanbul travel guide and advice by locals.

Top 10 Night Clubs in Istanbul

Last updated: January 9, 2023

Nightlife in Istanbul is huge. There are many popular establishments — some aged over thirty years old and some very down to date. Being such a big city with several city centers, Istanbul has more than one entertainment destination.

On the Asian side Caddebostan’s ‘ barlar sokağı ‘ — a street of pubs on Iskele Street — and Kadife Street, both in the Kadıkö y district, have a lot to offer. On the European side, nightclubs aren’t concentrated in one location. There are numerous venues spread out over Nişantaşı in the Şişli district, Ortaköy in the Beşiktaş district or Taksim, Istiklal Street, and Nevizade in the Beyoğlu district. In this article, I can only mention the tip of the iceberg with a list of 10 nightclubs locals put on the top of their lists, in no particular order.

An elite ambiance, with a picturesque view of Istanbul as it is located by the Bosphorus. It offers a combination of six restaurants and three bars, open between 6 p.m. and 4 a.m. Sortie is one of the best escape places to relax and have fun.

Address: 141 Muallim Naci caddesi, Kuruçeşme, Ortaköy Telephone: +90 212 327 85 85 www.sortie.com.tr

Located on the shore of the Bosphorus, it goes without saying that this three storey mansion offers a good view as well as a broad variety of food in the garden / balcony with Bosphorus panoramic views. There are two nightclubs, one on the bottom and one on the top floor.

Address: Ortaköy Salhanesi Sokak No:5, Beşiktaş Telephone: +90 212 327 28 44 www.rubyistanbul.com

The venue is located in a penthouse of a 19th-century apartment building with 360 degrees fascinating landscape views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and the Sea of Marmara. The place expresses itself with four elements: cuisine, design, entertainment, and atmosphere. The club comes alive in the weekends, offering DJs and vocalists with live dancers and performances, and non-stop partying until the early morning hours.

Address: İstiklal Caddesi Mısır Apt. No: 163 Kat 8, Beyoğlu Telephone: +90 212 251 10 42-43 360istanbul.com

Looking down from the Ulus hill, the venue offers magnificent views of the Bosphorus and the Asian side. The upscale and spacious fine dining restaurant serves both traditional and modern dishes of Turkish and world cuisine since 1993, and together with the bar is a reputable night club attraction. It is known as one of the pioneers of night life in the city. Booking a table is recommended.

Address: Ulus Mahallesi, Ahmet Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Ulus Parkı İçi, No 71/1, Beşiktaş Telephone: +90 212 358 29 29 29.com.tr

5. Cahide Müzikhol — Dinner Theate r

Established in 1949, music hall Kervansaray was the previous resident of the building. It had hosted numerous celebrities both nationally and internationally before closing. Cahide opened its doors in 2017 and proudly carries on the music hall spirit with its modern cabaret approach. It can even be described as representing drag queen culture with its shows and ambiance.

The venue is an extravagant place of interest with its brilliantly exaggerated decoration, fine kitchen, and funny-named cocktails. During the weekdays, esteemed Turkish singers go on stage, and on Saturdays, after midnight the club party begins with live DJ music. Booking a table is recommended.

Address: Cumhuriyet Caddesi No:52, Harbiye Mahallesi, Şişli Telephone: +90 212 219 65 30

6. Babylon Bomonti

After more than fifteen years, Babylon moved in September 2015 from Asmalımescit to its new venue in Bomonti. Babylon Bomonti still serves as a multi-purpose performance center. It features a large variety of music, including jazz, reggae, world music, electronic, Latin, or Turkish vibes as well as indie pop and rock acts. Food is unavailable, but you will not stay thirsty since there is a bar in the place. You must get a ticket for the concerts.

Address: Bomonti Bira Fabrikası, Birahane Sokak No:1, Bomonti, Şişli Telephone: +90 212 334 01 90 babylon.com.tr

7. Jolly Joker Balans

A good option for live music addicts since the construction was designed especially for live performances with a decor of “old pub design”. It is a good opportunity to experience Turkish rock, alternative, and pop music from senior and fresh popular bands and singers.

Address: İstiklal Cad. Balo Sok. No: 22 Beyoğlu Telephone: +90 212 249 07 49 www.jollyjoker.com.tr

Klein is for you if you are into decadent and kitsch decor, some kind of subterranean playground, and suspended dancers. Located within walking distance from Taksim square, this nightclub has a line-up of international and local DJs serving electronic, and techno music. Klein is open on Friday and Saturday from 23:00 till 04:00.

Address: Cumhuriyet Caddesi, Cebel Topu Sokak. No. 4, Harbiye Telephone: +90 212 291 84 40

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission to keep the site ad-free . I only recommend products and companies I use or have used.

Further Recommended Reading

• How Much and When to Tip in Istanbul
• Top 10 Outdoor Cafes in Istanbul
• Tips To Prevent Popular Istanbul Taxi Scams

Nik Nilson says

January 26, 2024 at 4:59 am

its Sad to see Islamic Istanbul this way so sad .

Andreea Voronca says

November 20, 2023 at 12:32 am

Thanks for the great articles! We were really inspired in planning our trip thanks to you! I have a question regarding the clubs: what do you think of Lotiz Lounge & Hookah? Is it a good place to eat and afterwards party a little bit? Or do they normally not dance there?

Looking forward to your answer! Thank you, Best wishes!

Erlend says

November 21, 2023 at 7:53 pm

It’s a rather posh place (for smoking waterpipe) and pretty popular, attracts a lot of people from the Arabic peninsula, too. I’ve never been there myself so far, so I couldn’t comment on the dancing.

No name says

January 24, 2022 at 11:00 am

Its funny how globalism is here. You will see same clubs in ny. Miami. The people and hisory are the difference.

Still recomend traveling to see for yourself

January 19, 2024 at 8:15 am

Hi, thank you for the great article! I cannot decide between Sortie, Ruby and Oligark celebrating the 30th birthday of a friend. Which one do you think is the best for a great experience having food and celebrating afterwards ?

Thank and best wishes

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I Fly More Than 100 Times a Year, and This Is My Favorite Airport Lounge in the World

After taking 119 flights last year, Turkish Airlines Business Lounge at the Istanbul Airport became my favorite place to spend a layover.

Courtesy of Turkish Airlines

Airport lounges are a welcome luxury to just about any traveler. An exclusive enclave boasting free Wi-Fi and cocktails, it can help alleviate the woes of even the most lengthy layovers . What’s not to love? Well, the food, usually. Although you’ll probably see plenty of it — including wilting greens and lukewarm proteins of indeterminant origin — quantity is no substitute for quality. If you’re lucky enough to pass through Istanbul Airport, however, you can be treated to an uncompromising union of both. Make your way to the Turkish Airlines Business Lounge, and your tastebuds will soar to new heights, because this is an airport dining experience like no other.

As its primary hub of operations, Turkish Airlines actually operates two exclusive lounges at IST: the Business Lounge as well as the Miles & Smiles Lounge. Together they unfurl across 103,333 square feet of elevated mezzanine, overlooking the cathedral-like terminal, which opened to passengers in April 2019. And after taking 119 flights last year , Turkish Airlines Business Lounge became my favorite place to spend a layover.

Amble up to either space and you’ll be met with more than a dozen food stations, each one showcasing a different aspect of Turkish cuisine. Chefs in toques stand on the ready, often preparing delicacies to-order, such as manti (a sort of Turkish ravioli), baked simit (sesame bread rings), and börek (savory pastries stuffed with spinach and cheese). At one particularly popular counter, servers push out a ceaseless parade of pide . The Turkish flatbread arrives fresh out of a pizza oven, topped in a variety of vegetarian-friendly and meat-heavy variations. It is slathered with a glistening layer of olive oil and cut into strips as each subsequent diner arrives to collect it. 

Behind them is a kiosk containing more than 40 different mezzes amassed from every corner of Turkey. Highlights include marinated olives, seasoned cheeses, and fresh-pressed juices. It won’t be easy saving room for dessert in an environment as dense as this, but you owe it to yourself to try. Warm and flaky baklava , revani , tulumba, and Turkish delight will dull even the sharpest of sweet teeth. And they all pair perfectly alongside sturdy pours of Turkish coffee and cappuccino. 

The elaborate nature of this experience didn’t just jumble together overnight. It actually took more than a year to develop, according to Mustafa Can Aydogdu, a chef for Turkish Airlines. “We wanted our selection of food and beverage to be reflective of Turkish culture, giving travelers an opportunity to enjoy some of our traditional dishes,” he tells Travel + Leisure . “We strive to provide a wide variety of options to cater not only to the palates of our many international passengers, but also to accommodate any special dietary restrictions.” 

Having it all ready in time for the grand opening of Istanbul Airport was a top priority for the international carrier. The momentous occasion afforded a unique opportunity to showcase the airline’s commitment to food — both on the ground and in the air. Ensuring that latter bit is the Turkish Airlines Flying Chefs program, in which culinary stars native to the country work to prepare in-flight menus. Offerings are constantly changing depending on the season, trends, and route maps. Can Aydoğdu has been an integral part of the process for more than a decade. 

“[We] have over 100 menu combinations prepared by our professional chefs, and we never use any additives, canned products, or frozen ingredients,” he says. “But we always strive to offer passengers traditional products which pull from the seven primary regions of the country including homemade jams from the Aegean, honeycomb and milk cream from Central Anatolia, cheeses local to Eastern Anatolia, olives from Marmara, and Trabzon butter from the Black Sea.”

If you’re flying in business class, the cuisine is wheeled out to your tray-table by an actual chef in full regalia, and enjoyed by (faux) candlelight. The meal begins in earnest with a quartet of mezzes. This might include traditional favorites like artichoke braised in olive oil, imam bayildi (stuffed eggplant), and cheese puff pastries known locally as sigara böreği . “On board, we are working as if we are managing our own restaurant, but at over 35,000 feet,” Can Aydoğdu adds.

Back on the ground at Istanbul Airport that same attention to detail — and commitment to quality — is a recipe responsible for what is, in my opinion, the world’s best airport lounge. And you needn’t even be a business-class traveler to experience it. Day pass entry to the space starts at €75 ($82) plus tax. It’s quite the bargain considering that you can indulge endlessly on cuisine which competes favorably against laudable eateries outside the terminal walls. Layovers never tasted so good.

At least 27 dead in Istanbul after fire breaks out during nightclub renovations

Authorities in Istanbul are investigating a fire that broke out during renovations at a nightclub and left at least 27 people dead and others severely injured.

First responders on Tuesday surrounded the charred and smoking entrance to the club, which is on two floors underneath a 16-story residential building.

The nightclub is in the central part of the city, the city governor's office said. The daytime fire broke out during a monthlong closure for renovations.

One injured person was in critical condition at a hospital, the governor's office said.

Istanbul Gov. Davut Gul told reporters at the scene that the victims were believed to be involved in the renovation work, The Associated Press reported.

Five people were ordered detained, Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc said, including club managers and one person in charge of the renovations, the AP said.

The club is in Istanbul's Gayrettepe neighborhood on the west bank of the Bosporus, the strait that divides the city between Europe and Asia.

Contributing: Reuters

Architectural Digest

11 Relaxing Hotels With In-Room Spas

Posted: November 13, 2023 | Last updated: November 13, 2023

As travelers increasingly seek wellness on their trips, hotels continue to elevate their spa facilities to offer everything from immersive storm rooms to contrast bathing (where guests alternate between hot and cold water). But few hotels offer the opportunity to experience a spa in private. “Being naked is the point,” Brett van Sickle says bluntly on the inspiration behind building a hammam and steam room in each of the bedrooms at his wellness boutique inn, the High Acre . “Being able to feel the sweat and steam on your body is so therapeutic.”

Rather than rub sweaty elbows with strangers in a shared sauna, having in-room spa facilities enables guests to turn their attention inward. Instead of carving out an hour or two to visit the spa, having in-room spa facilities provides unlimited opportunities for self-care each day, transforming the typical hotel stay into a private wellness retreat. Below, AD surveys 11 hotels with in-room spas that offer unparalleled privacy—and striking design—in the pursuit of relaxation and rejuvenation.

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Raffles London at the OWO (London, England)

Intercontinental Da Nang (Vietnam)

Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort (Kartalkaya, Turkey)

The High Acre (Dundas, Canada)

Hotel The Mitsui, Kyoto, Japan

The American Club Resort Hotel (Kohler, Wisconsin)

Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection (Santorini, Greece)

Mandarin Oriental (Geneva, Switzerland)

The Peninsula Istanbul (Turkey)

The Leela Palace, Udaipur, India

Hotel Principe di Savoia (Milan, Italy)

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