15 Greatest Bars in Istanbul (The place to Seize a Drink)

Istanbul’s nightlife is vibrant and various, and, to coin a cliche, it has one thing for everybody. When nighttime falls (or daytime, in case you fancy it), you’ll discover greater than sufficient bars to drop by for a drink or two. The perfect bars in Istanbul are dotted across the metropolis, making it straightforward to get pleasure from your time regardless of the place you’re staying.

Anybody who is aware of me will let you know that Istanbul is my favourite metropolis on the planet and I additionally love a very good night time out. The 2 go collectively very effectively certainly! There are some improbable locations to drink in Istanbul, and having tried fairly a couple of throughout my numerous visits and lengthy stays, I’m in the most effective place to share my suggestions.

It’s not all golf equipment, and it’s not all quiet chill-out bars both. Istanbul is residence to a various mixture of various kinds of bars, from espresso spots to sports activities bars, cocktail institutions to nightclubs. Regardless of the place you’re staying in Istanbul, you’ll definitely discover what you’re searching for, however, it at all times helps to know the most effective locations to go—that’s the place I are available in.

Greatest Bars in Istanbul

You is likely to be shocked by the large variation in nightlife in Istanbul; I do know I used to be. The sheer variety of bars, cocktail spots, nightclubs, and every thing else you may consider means it’s generally tough to know the most effective locations to go—in spite of everything, high quality isn’t discovered in every single place. However that’s the place my expertise helps as a result of having spent numerous nights sampling Istanbul’s nightlife spots, I’ve received a reasonably good concept of the place’s good versus the place isn’t.

I’ve compiled this listing based mostly on high quality of service, menu, ambiance, and decor. If you happen to attempt any spot under, I do know you gained’t be disenchanted.

1. 16 Roof (Greatest Bar in Istanbul General)

Among the finest bars in Istanbul is unquestionably 16 Roof. Sitting on the highest ground of the Swissotel in Beşiktaş, this bar gives superb Bosphorus views, improbable music, dancing, and a scrumptious menu of meals and drinks. Sure, it’s upmarket and sure, it’s slightly costly, however it’s greater than value it for a particular night time with a assured gorgeous view regardless of the place you sit.

This is without doubt one of the hottest bars in Istanbul, and at round 10 pm, the night hots up as DJs take over, supplying you with loads of alternative to bounce the night time away. I actually loved the cocktails right here; they actually have been one thing particular and gave that buzz that tells you what you’re sipping on is of nice high quality. You too can get pleasure from scrumptious meals, with a mix of conventional Turkish fare and worldwide dishes out there.

The outside rooftop bar is open throughout the summer time months, from Could to October, and throughout the winter all of the enjoyable strikes indoors, with the identical improbable service.

16 Roof Data

Deal with: Vişnezade, Acısu Sokaği No:19, 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (549) 326 1112
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 5 pm – 2 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Sushi tray, Strawberry Crash cocktail, Caipirinha cocktail
Common Value: $17 per cocktail, $12 per gin, $9 per beer
Web site: swissotelthebosphorus.com

2. Nook Irish Pub (Greatest for Sports activities)

One in every of my favourite locations in the entire of Istanbul is the Nook Irish Pub in Taksim. I be sure to go to this bar a number of instances throughout any journey to town, and it’s at all times such a deal with. The workers is welcoming, the vibe contained in the bar is heat and comfy, they usually serve an enormous vary of worldwide beers, spirits, and superb cocktails – the meals is scrumptious too.

That is additionally one of many high craft beer bars in Istanbul with an in depth choice to attempt.

This bar actually comes alive, particularly when there’s a large soccer match, and on St Patrick’s Day when the bar is embellished and stay music performs. I’ve met folks from all around the world right here, and it’s at all times so busy. On the weekend, I’d positively suggest arriving early so you may get a desk; that is positively one of the crucial enjoyable bars in Istanbul, fingers down.

Nook Irish Pub Data

Deal with: Asmalı Mescit Meşrutiyet Cd. No:11/A Galatasaray, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (212) 244 4820
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12 pm – 4 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Craft beer choice, Apple Martini cocktail, tortilla chips (the dip is superb)
Common Value: $11 per cocktail, $6 per beer, $7 for wine
Web site: corner-irish-pub.com

3. Craft Beer Lab (Greatest for Craft Beer Lovers)

The perfect place for craft beer in Istanbul is the very handily named Craft Beer Lab. I cherished the laid-back vibe at this bar, and there’s a heated outside seating space in case you choose to get some recent air. You’ll discover many locals at this bar, which tells you numerous about its high quality, however I significantly preferred how pleasant and welcoming the entire place felt.

If you happen to’re new to the craft beer scene, this can be a great spot in Istanbul to attempt. The vary on supply is large, they usually have some actually attention-grabbing flavors that you simply’ll be unlikely to seek out anyplace else. There’s a bar snack menu in case you get slightly peckish throughout your consuming session, that options enormous burgers and superb nachos.

Craft Beer Lab Data

Deal with: Sinanpaşa, Şair Nedim Cd. No:4, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (212) 236 9192
Working Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 12 pm – 1.30 am, Friday & Saturday, 12 pm – 3 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Craft beer choice, nachos, draft Efes beer
Common Value: $8.50 per cocktail, $4-$7 per beer, $9 for burgers

4. Babylon Lounge (Greatest for Reside Music)

Babylon is without doubt one of the finest stay music bars in Istanbul, and the linked Babylon Lounge is a superb place to loosen up earlier than or after a present. This venue holds 550 folks and has hosted some high-quality native and worldwide artists. You’ll have to e book tickets for live shows forward of time, however you may go to the bar with out reserving.

The ambiance is vibrant and enjoyable, as everyone seems to be keyed up after a present, and the musical vibe continues into the night time. It’s a fantastic place to get pleasure from a meal, a couple of cocktails, and let your hair down with a couple of pals. Contemplating this can be a enormous venue, it’s fairly moderately priced too, which is at all times helpful in these costly instances.

Babylon Lounge Data

Deal with: Merkez, Silahşör Caddesi & Birahane Sokak Tarihi Bomonti Bira Fabrikası No:1, 34384 Şişli/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (212) 334 0190
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12 pm – 2 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Draft beer choice, wine choice, Mojito
Common Value: $8-$10 per cocktail, $6 per beer, $7 for wine
Web site: babylon.com.tr

5. Ney’le Mey’le Meyhane, Nevizade (Greatest for Raki)

Nevizade is a particularly busy road behind Istiklal Caddesi in Taksim. This road is legendary for its pubs and its many seafood and raki eating places, which is without doubt one of the finest issues to attempt in Istanbul if you wish to discover one thing conventional. Ney’le Mey’le Meyhane is the most effective fish and raki (balık ve raki) spot on that road and is a superb place to do that expertise for the primary time because it’s very tourist-friendly.

I believe this is without doubt one of the finest bars in Istanbul for {couples} too, particularly when the normal musicians come round to serenade you. If you happen to’re not the most important fan of raki, additionally they have a really in depth wine listing, they usually promote native beer corresponding to Efes. I like to recommend ordering a couple of completely different meze to attempt when you’re consuming too – every thing right here is tremendous tasty.

Ney’le Mey’le Meyhane Data

Deal with: Hüseyinağa, Nevizade Sk. No:8, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (539) 840 0901
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9 am – 2 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Raki, seafood, meze
Common Value: $20 per 35cl bottle of raki, $5.50 per beer, $7 for wine
Web site: neylemeyle.com

6. The Financial institution Roof Bar (Greatest for Views)

For me, The Financial institution Roof Bar is without doubt one of the finest bars in Istanbul with a view, and you may see proper over to the Asian facet. I additionally loved the signature cocktails, which went down very effectively with the heated outside house and improbable ambiance. That is fairly an upmarket house, however you’re actually paying for the top quality of service and the panorama—neither disappoint.

If you happen to’re a fan of cocktails, this place is improbable; I cherished the ‘Disco is Not Useless’ cocktail and the ‘Provence Daydream’. The meals can be scrumptious in case you’re after a full meal, they usually have snacks corresponding to cheese and fruit platters for one thing lighter. For me, this is without doubt one of the finest luxurious bars in Istanbul, and whereas it’s not low cost, you positively get what you pay for.

The Financial institution Roof Bar Data

Deal with: Azapkapı, Bankalar Cd. No:5, 34321 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (531) 892 3617
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12 pm – 2 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Disco is Not Useless cocktail, Provence Daydream cocktail, cheese platter
Common Value: $20 per cocktail, $6 per beer, $15 for wine
Web site: thebankhotelistanbul.com

7. Sensus (Greatest for Wine)

If you happen to’re searching for a high-quality wine bar in Istanbul with a comfortable ambiance, I extremely suggest Sensus. This can be a great spot to take a seat with a bunch of pals or a cherished one and luxuriate in sharing a bottle of wine and a cheese plate. I particularly preferred the truth that the workers depart you alone and don’t continuously ask you in order for you one other drink; it virtually looks like being at residence.

The wine listing right here is huge, and you should buy both by the glass or by bottle. It feels such as you’re in an intimate vineyard with barrels throughout as ornament. For me, this is without doubt one of the finest bars in Istanbul to sit back out and luxuriate in a scrumptious glass of wine (or three), with out loud music or rowdiness.

Sensus Data

Deal with: Bereketzade, Kuledibi, Büyük Hendek Cd. No:5, 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (212) 245 5657
Working Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 2 pm – 11.30 pm, Friday & Saturday, 2 pm – 1 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Wine tasting menu, Yanık Ülke Muscat wine, Ma’adra Pinot Noir wine
Common Value: $8 per glass of wine, $45 per bottle of wine, $30 per individual for the wine tasting menu
Web site: qr.finedinemenu.com

8. Nardis Jazz Membership (Greatest for Jazz)

You’ll discover Nardis Jazz Membership near the Galata Tower, and it’s probably the greatest bars in downtown Istanbul for jazz music and a favourite place of mine to have a couple of drinks. If you wish to catch a present, it’s a good suggestion to e book tickets forward of time as in case you flip up on the day, it’s possible you’ll be disenchanted.

I’m not the most important fan of jazz, however I went with pals and actually loved it. The workers have been politely discreet when serving drinks, in order to not disturb the ambiance or block the view. I assumed the costs have been actually affordable contemplating it’s a stay music venue and I discovered the menu to be fairly in depth too.

Nardis Jazz Membership Data

Deal with: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi Sk. No:8, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (532) 244 5778
Working Hours: Monday – Saturday, 8.30 pm – 12.30 pm, closed on Sundays
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Wine listing, whiskey, raki
Common Value: $8-$10 per cocktail, $5.50 per beer, $7 for wine
Web site: nardisjazz.com

9. Finn Karaköy (Greatest for Stylish Cocktails)

Many locations say they do good cocktails, however lots don’t use recent fruit components to provide their drinks that zing—this place does. This is without doubt one of the elegant bars in Istanbul that’s at all times busy, with folks spilling out into the road, having fun with the colourful ambiance. Finn is my favourite place for cocktails, they usually even have a improbable meals menu, with Turkish and Center Jap vibes.

One other plus level is that the workers are actually pleasant and don’t hassle you an excessive amount of. It’s a really tourist-friendly house which can be a favourite amongst locals. The outside seating space is heated, so even when the climate is chilly, you may get some recent air. Indoors is comfy and comfy, and total, this can be a must-visit for anybody who enjoys a very good cocktail or two.

Finn Karaköy Data

Deal with: Müeyyedzade Mah. Necatibey Cad, Karanlık Fırın Sk. 8/B, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (530) 946 0888
Working Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12 pm – 2 pm, closed on Mondays
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Apple Mojito, Cosmopolitan, Lengthy Island Iced Tea
Common Value: $8-10 per cocktail, $5-8 per beer, $7 for wine
Web site: finndukkan.com

10. Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi (Greatest for Distinctive Drinks)

Whether or not you’re a fan of sushi or not, the cocktails at this bar are improbable, they usually’re completely distinctive. This isn’t a spot the place you’ll discover the common mojito or daiquiri; right here, they’ve their very own designed cocktails which are made with recent components. For that purpose, it’s probably the greatest cocktail bars in Istanbul, and it’s a preferred spot day-after-day of the week.

The decor of the bar can be particular; it appears slightly like an old school pharmacy with bottles containing completely different components. The workers are actually useful and gives you a hand in case you’re undecided which drink to go for. If you happen to’re not likely into cocktails earlier than visiting, this place could change your thoughts.

Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi Data

Deal with: Asmalı Mescit, Müeyyet Sk. No:5, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (555) 889 6955
Working Hours: Monday – Thursday, 11 am – 2 pm, Friday & Saturday, 11.30 am – 2.30 am, Sundays 3 pm – 2.30 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: All Good in The Hood cocktail, sushi, spring rolls
Common Value: $10 per cocktail, $17-20 per sushi plate
Web site: instagram.com/moretenders

11. Ruby (Greatest for Dancing)

If you happen to’re searching for upmarket golf equipment in Istanbul then that is the place to go—you would possibly even spot a star. Through the early a part of the night, Ruby is a improbable restaurant and bar, however because the night time goes on, it transforms right into a membership that’s open till the early hours. If you happen to do need to eat earlier than you get together, I extremely suggest the lobster linguine—it melted in my mouth.

The signature cocktails right here aren’t low cost, however they’re so superb that you simply won’t thoughts that a lot. In addition they serve bar snacks to munch on when you’re consuming. For me, this is without doubt one of the finest bars in Istanbul if you wish to have a clubbing expertise in a extra upmarket setting. You’re certain to be impressed with the gorgeous Bosphorus view from right here too.

Ruby Data

Deal with: Yıldız, Ortaköy Salhanesi Sk. No:5, 34349 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (212) 327 2844
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 6.30 pm – 2 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Lobster linguine, Apple Martini, Pinot Noir wine
Common Value: $14-16 per cocktail, $7 per beer, $13 for wine
Web site: rubyistanbul.com

12. Sundown Grill & Bar (Greatest for Ambiance)

Ulus Park is residence to some very fashionable bars in Istanbul, however one of the crucial fashionable, and one in all my favorites, is the Sundown Grill & Bar. Each a restaurant and bar, this spot additionally turns into a modern space to mingle and dance when night time falls, and the views are merely jaw-dropping. Through the summer time months, you may sit open air comfortably, and throughout the cooler months, the world is heated.

The resident DJ right here is very good, and the music performs till midnight, creating the perfect ambiance in your night. I preferred how fashionable but comfy this bar felt. It didn’t really feel too upmarket, however it felt very plush; you solely need to see the combination of locals, professionals, and vacationers arriving to grasp that this bar and restaurant is understood throughout town for the most effective causes.

Sundown Grill & Bar Data

Deal with: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi Ulus Park, Yol Sokağı No:2, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (212) 287 0357
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12 pm – 12 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Sushi plate, gin choice, Porn Star Martini cocktail
Common Value: $10-12 per cocktail, $7 per beer, $14 for wine
Web site: sunsetgrillbar.com

13. Spago (Greatest for Assembly New Folks)

If you happen to’re eager to mingle and meet new folks at a bar in Istanbul, I’d extremely suggest a go to to Spago. With views over Maçka Park and the Bosphorus past, it’s a calming and exquisite place to spend a couple of hours within the night. Nonetheless, it’s additionally positioned in a spot with numerous resorts, worldwide guests, and native residents alike, so that you’re certain to fulfill a variety of individuals right here to talk with.

Spago is a restaurant in addition to a bar, and the meals right here is scrumptious. Nonetheless, it’s drinks we’re all for, and I can let you know that the wine choice and cocktail menus are improbable. Additionally, in case you’re a gin or whiskey lover, you’ll discover an enormous choice on supply, and in comparison with different European locations, the costs are very affordable for such a high-quality spot.

Spago Data

Deal with: Harbiye, Mim Kemal Öke Cd. No:35, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (212) 368 0808
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 3 pm – 2 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Gin menu, whiskey choice, handcrafted cocktails
Common Value: $13 per cocktail, $7 per beer, $14-16 for whiskey
Web site: spago.thestregisistanbul.com

14. Monkey Istanbul (Greatest for Inexpensive Drinks)

Plenty of the most effective rooftop bars in Istanbul are improbable locations, however they’re additionally fairly costly. Nonetheless, Monkey Istanbul ticks the improbable field and lowers the worth vary slightly. I loved some improbable cocktails right here for much less cash than another comparable bars, with out having to compromise on the improbable views.

This can be a extremely popular bar amongst locals and guests, and the DJ units are improbable for chilling out or dancing. You possibly can sit indoors or open air, and the entire vibe is laid-back and classy. That is one in all my go-to locations for a weekend night time out after I need to let my hair down slightly and actually get pleasure from Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Monkey Istanbul Data

Deal with: Evliya Çelebi, Nejat Eczacıbaşı Binası, Şişhane Sk., 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (532) 605 8156
Working Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 5 pm – 2.30 am, Friday & Saturday, 5 pm – 3.30 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: Gin cocktails, whiskey menu, Raspberry Martini cocktail
Common Value: $9 per cocktail, $6 per beer, $7 for wine
Web site: monkeyistanbul.enterprise.web site

15. Peat & Sherry Whisky Bar (Greatest for Whiskey)

There are a couple of whiskey bars in Istanbul, however that is thought of probably the greatest. Situated in Kadiköy, the ambiance right here is vibrant and calm, but it’s a fantastic place for mingling and spending a night with pals. Even in case you’re not an enormous whiskey fan, the tasting menus right here would possibly simply sway you.

That is additionally a fantastic spot for sherry, so once more, it’s a great spot to attempt one thing new. The sheer vary of various drinks right here is kind of mind-blowing, and the workers are readily available to provide you some concepts on what you would possibly like relying in your tastes. General, I actually preferred the vibe right here, and it’s someplace I’ve been again to some instances since.

Peat & Sherry Whisky Bar Data

Deal with: Caddebostan, Bağdat Cad. No:338, 34728 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Cellphone: +90 (530) 071 1015
Working Hours: Monday – Sunday, 3 pm – 1 am
Should-Attempt Gadgets: American Dream tasting equipment, Blended Malt Trio tasting equipment, Teeling Stout
Common Value: $23-28 per whiskey tasting equipment, $9-12 per glass of whiskey
Web site: peatandsherry.co

Greatest Drink Excursions in Istanbul

The perfect bars in Istanbul are positioned all around the metropolis, and this can be a enormous place. For that purpose, taking a nightlife tour is an effective way to discover some improbable locations to cease for a drink or two, (or extra). I’ve taken a couple of bar crawl excursions in Istanbul, and I met some nice folks, a lot of whom I’m nonetheless in touch with immediately.

Let’s have a look at a number of the finest excursions and see if any seize your consideration:

Istanbul Occasion Pub Crawl with Occasion Bus

I went on this pub crawl a couple of years in the past, and it was a improbable night time. I met folks from around the globe, a few of whom I’m nonetheless in contact with immediately. You’ll board a celebration bus, and can go to three rooftop golf equipment across the metropolis; from there, you’ll play consuming video games and pattern native raki. The tour takes seven hours so keep in mind to tempo your self! Click on right here for extra info.

Istanbul Wineries Tour With a Non-public Sommelier

For one thing slightly extra sedate, a vineyard tour with a personal sommelier is a superb selection. You’ll go to three separate wineries across the metropolis, and also you’ll get to attempt completely different native wines as you go. The tour takes 3.5 hours, so it’s an effective way to get a style of Istanbul’s wine scene and determine the place you need to discover additional. Click on right here for reserving particulars.

Istanbul 7-Hour Pub Crawl

This 7-hour bar crawl takes you round three of the most effective bars within the metropolis, and also you’ll additionally obtain complimentary raki to attempt as you go. The tour is centered round Taksim, so that you’ll be proper within the coronary heart of Istanbul’s loudest and most vibrant nightlife spots. It’s a strolling tour, so be sure to put on comfy sneakers. Click on right here to e book.

Well-known Istanbul Pub Crawl Nightlife Expertise

This tour is without doubt one of the hottest in Istanbul, and it’s been working for years. That ought to inform you numerous about how a lot enjoyable it’s. As with most pub crawl excursions, you’ll meet in Taksim and can work your method round 5 completely different venues, with 4 free pictures that can assist you get into the get together spirit. Click on right here for extra info.

Istanbul Non-public Wine Tasting Tour

I cherished this non-public wine-tasting tour, which took me to a few completely different wineries. Istanbul’s wineries are all hidden gems in their very own proper, and I found some completely different varieties that I actually preferred. You’ll find out how the wine is made, and the right way to pair it with meals, and also you’ll have loads of samples to attempt. You’ll even have the choice to buy your favourite bottle on the finish of the journey. Click on right here to e book.

Istanbul Bars: FAQs

Listed here are some solutions to essentially the most generally requested questions on the most effective bars in Istanbul, Turkey:

In Conclusion

Whereas Istanbul gives a number of the finest sightseeing spots on this planet, it actually comes alive when the solar goes down. If you happen to’re in Taksim, you’ll be partying till the solar rises once more, however equally, in case you’re looking for one thing extra sedate, you gained’t battle to discover a excellent match both. The perfect bars in Istanbul supply one thing for everybody, and it’s merely a case of understanding what you’d like to try this night.

I like a chilled-out sort of bar, however one which has a fantastic ambiance—the Nook Irish Pub is one in all my common haunts, however I prefer to attempt new locations every time I go to. The excellent news is that now precisely the place to move in your first fun-filled night in Istanbul.