It is no surprise that Istanbul is a historical city, having been part of ancient civilisations including Byzantine and Constantinople. However, many might not know that it is also synonymous with a vibrant nightlife. Istanbul is home to many bars, restaurants and clubs that remain open late into the night and offer locals and tourists the chance to have a fun night out. They serve mouth-watering food and various drinks, play music and host lively parties, guaranteeing an unforgettable time with friends or family.
Here is a list of the top 20 bars in Istanbul:
1. Geyik
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Afamousr coffee shop and bar in Istanbul, Geyik is best known for its many cocktails inspired by recipes from around the globe. The bar has a cosy vibe and a wooden and brick interior with limited seating. There is also an outdoor seating area. Various snacks like popcorn, peanuts and chips are served alongside coffee and alcohol. There is always a mixologist behind the bar who prepares cocktails according to the visitors’ preferences. Soothing music and live performances add to the ambience.
Address: Cihangir, Akarsu Ykş. Sok. No:22, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul - Avrupa, Turkey Timings: 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM Popular drinks: Lucien Gaudin, Hanky Panky, Monkey Gland, Bijou, Beer, Latte, Cappuccino etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 200 for two people (including drinks)
2. U2 Istanbul Irish Pub
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A rustic bar that brings the charm of an Irish bar to Istanbul, the U2 Istanbul Irish Pub is a popular sports bar best known for serving guinesses. It has a brick interior with an old-school chandelier hanging in the centre and memorabilia on the walls. You can watch live football, hurling, and rugby matches here while enjoying the Irish folk music that plays in the background. Vegan burgers, bacon burgers, beef sausages, tapas, and fries are popular dishes here. The owner, Leo, is a great host and engages in friendly conversation with the guests. St. Patrick’s day is celebrated with gusto here, and guests are treated to green beers.
Address: Şehit Muhtar, Bekar Sk. No:21, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 6:00 PM - 4:00 AM Popular drinks: Guinness, Budweiser, Zikkim Weiss, Sol Mexican, Carlsberg, Tequila, Pablo Ipa etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 120 for two (including drinks)
3. Flekk
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Flekk is one of the most popular cocktail bars in Istanbul, famous for making drinks using locally sourced produce. It has stylish and modern decor and a cosy ambience. There are plants in every corner of the establishment. It is also a great place for a date! The wall behind the bar is well-lit up and features shelves lined with bottles of alcohol, making it one of the main attractions. Alongside the many drinks, munch on some delicious food like lasagna, Turkish tapas, steak, cheese and nachos.
Address: Tomtom, Yeni Çarşı Cd. 54/A, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM (Monday to Friday), 3:00 PM - 1:30 AM (Saturday to Sunday) Popular drinks: Drömmig, Grønn, Vík, Goðafoss, Whisky, Strawberry Aperol Spritz, Sparkling wine etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 250 for two (including drinks)
4. Just Bar
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Just Bar is a well-known bar in Istanbul and a favourite amongst mixology fans since it serves a variety of unique cocktails. It has rustic wooden interiors that create cosy vibes and an outdoor seating area. Soft music constantly plays in the background. Dishes like salads, pizzas, pita with minced beef, fries, burgers, sandwiches and more are also available here. Just Bar is also pet friendly.
Address: Cankurtaran, Akbıyık Cd. No:28, 34400 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 11:00 AM - 4:00 AM Popular drinks: Bomonti, Whisky Sour, Black Russian, Jagermeister, Ballantines, Bloody Mary etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 170 for two (including drinks)
5. James Joyce Irish Club
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Featuring simple decor which offers its guests a comfortable ambience, the James Joyce Irish Pub in Istanbul pays tribute to the great Irish writer. It has wood panels on the walls lined with pictures of the author and niches containing his works. There is also a bookshelf filled with numerous books. Alongside the many alcoholic drinks, this Irish bar is also known for food like baguette sandwiches, salads, french fries, soups, pasta, ravioli and more. You can also watch live sports here, enjoy soothing live music and performances, play darts, dance or socialise.
Address: Hüseyinağa, Balo Sk. No:26, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM Popular drinks: Ballantines, Jameson, Martel, Pina Colada, Espresso Martini, Sambuca etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 180 for two (including drinks)
6. Balkon Restaurant & Bar
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The Balkon Restaurant & Bar is a rooftop establishment and one of the most scenic bars in Istanbul. You can take in the spectacular views of the Istanbul historical peninsula while sipping various alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. Its menu features mouth-watering dishes like fish & chips, bruschetta bacon, salads, pizzas and grilled salmon. There is both indoor and outdoor seating at the Balkon Restaurant & Bar. During the day, soothing jazz music plays at the bar; once the sun sets, you can enjoy lively pop, electro, funk and soul music. In addition, many live music performances are often organised here.
Address: Asmalı Mescit, Şehbender Sk. No:5, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM Popular drinks: Cappuccinos, Turkish coffee, Sol cerveza, Carlsberg, Martini Bianco, Absolut, Sangria etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 200 for two (including drinks)
7. Corner Irish Pub
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The Corner Irish Pub is one of Istanbul’s most popular bars, especially among students and sports enthusiasts. The establishment boasts old-school and simple decor owing to its brick walls and wooden bar. One might even spot a big barrel in a corner somewhere! There is indoor and outdoor seating. Maybe watch a live match while you drink or grab a bite to eat! Some of the most well-known dishes are beef burgers, french fries, Louisiana chicken wings, hot dogs, veggie burgers and pizzas.
Address: Asmalı Mescit Meşrutiyet Cd. No:11/A Galatasaray, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 12:00 PM - 4:00 AM Popular drinks: Baileys, Grey goose, Campari, Zacapa rum, Martini rosso, Angora roze, Tanqueray etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 220 for two (including drinks)
8. Snog Roof Bar
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Located close to the Galata Tower, the Snog Roof Bar is a must-visit rooftop restaurant and bar in Istanbul owing to its spectacular city views. It boasts a cosy vibe due to its simple wooden interiors and mood lighting provided by the bulbs on the ceiling. The floor-to-ceiling windows only add to its charm! The Snog Roof Bar is an excellent place to hang out around sunset. You can sit inside or out on the patio. Snacks like cheese, chips and dips, bread, olives and more are served along with the drinks.
Address: Şahkulu, Galip Dede Cd. No:56 Kat:4, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 2:00 PM - 3:00 AM Popular drinks: Marzen Lager, Weihenstephaner, Tuborg, India Pale Ale, Mojitos, Martinis etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 220 for two (including drinks)
9. Karga Bar
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Karga Bar in the Kadıköy neighbourhood is one of Istanbul’s most frequented bars that is popular for its rustic decor, dim lighting and cheap drinks. It is a two-storeyed bar housed within a historical building with several avant-garde artworks on its walls. A DJ plays lively music downstairs while different live acts are organised upstairs. There is also a fireplace with a bunch of logs next to it, adding to the establishment’s old-school charm. You can opt for indoor or outdoor seating. The food menu boasts a variety of delicious dishes, including pasta, salads, wraps, spring rolls, crispy chicken and burgers.
Address: Caferağa, Kadife Sk. No:16, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Sunday to Thursday), 12:00 PM - 4:00 AM (Friday to Saturday) Popular drinks: Bomonti, Efes Pilsen, Leffe Blonde, Beck’s, Angora Rose, Ancyra Blush etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 130 for two (including drinks)
10. Celtic Irish Pub Istanbul
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The Celtic Irish Pub Istanbul is a well-known bar and restaurant in Istanbul that is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch or late-night drinks. It has modern and old-school decor with leather couches, mirrors and a large wooden bar featuring countless bottles of alcohol. The dim red lighting and live music make for a comfortable ambience. A few musical instruments are on a shelf in one corner of the bar. Outdoor and indoor seating is available. Its menu comprises burgers, the Celtic Platter, nachos, corn dogs, mac and cheese and more. You can watch live sports or try your hand at darts or the pool table.
Address: Asmalımescit Mah. İstiklal Cad. No: 180 Narmanlı Han, İstiklal Cd., 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Monday to Thursday), 12:00 PM - 4:00 AM (Friday to Saturday), Happy Hour: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Weekdays) Popular drinks: Tuborg Amber, Garaguzu Blonde Ale, Guinness, Heineken, Kirin Ichiban, Americano, Irish Coffee etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 200 for two (including drinks)
11. Rounder's Irish Pub
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Another one of Istanbul’s popular Irish bars, the Rounder’s Irish Pub is ideal for those looking for some late-night fun with friends. It is a small establishment with simple decor, including wooden seating and green walls. Both outdoor and indoor seating is available here. The bar is fully stocked with various alcoholic drinks, and you can also have burgers, salads, fries, pizzas, fish and chips, quesadillas and more while you socialise. Soothing live music plays in the background. The Rounder’s Irish Pub’s staff is excellent.
Address: Cankurtaran, Akbıyık Cd., 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: Open 24 hours, Happy Hour: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Popular drinks: Carlsberg, Hobgoblin, Jameson, Smirnoff, Red wine, Remy Martini etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 200 for two (including drinks)
12. RITIM Rooftop Bar
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Situated in Taksim, Istanbul’s most vibrant district, the Ritim Bar is a fancy establishment that spans four floors and a rooftop. Each of these floors is decorated differently. It is an excellent place for a night of drinking, dancing and partying with friends. There is always a DJ in the house with their special playlist that includes Jazz, Balkan, Latin, Indian, Pop, Hip Hop and other kinds of music. The rooftop is also perfect for hosting parties or appreciating the city’s views, especially at sunset. Live sports are also telecasted at Ritim. Its impressive menu features many yummy dishes, including salads, wraps, burgers, pizzas, pasta, croquettes etc.
Address: Hüseyinağa, Sahne Sk. No:20, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 10:00 AM - 4:00 AM Popular drinks: Raki Tek, Vodka Enerji, Kahlua, Jack Daniel’s, Corona, Pina Colada, Beer Rise etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 180 for two (including drinks)
13. Moretender’s Cocktail Crib
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A perfect hangout spot for mixology fans, the Moretender’s Cocktail Crib is one of the most popular bars in Istanbul. It features trendy and modern decor with lots of gold and marble accents, plants, posters, neon lights and more that create an ambience. It is even better at nighttime when the lights are dimmed inside. The bar features mirrored shelves that touch the ceiling and are lined with alcohol bottles. You can sip on various tasty cocktails and feast on delicious sushi, spring rolls, shrimp and more while enjoying the music. Indoor and outdoor seating is available here.
Address: Asmalı Mescit, Müeyyet Sk. No:5, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Monday to Thursday), 1:00 PM - 2:30 AM (Friday to Saturday), 6:00 PM - 1:30 AM (Sunday) Popular drinks: Negroni, Smooth Crush, Moss the Boss, Gold Digger, Wings of Desire, Not your Mama etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 250 for two (including drinks)
14. 45'lik Bar
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A well-known establishment in the happening district of Taksim, the 45’lik Bar is perfect for anyone looking for a fun night of drinking and music. It is not too big and has simple interiors featuring brick walls, dim yet colourful lights, posters of celebrities and newspaper clippings on the walls and much more. 45’lik Bar is famous for playing different Turkish and English songs from the 80s and 90s. Free snacks like peanuts, popcorn and chips are served with the drinks.
Address: Firuzağa, Yeni Çarşı Cd. 38/a, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 11:00 AM - 4:00 AM Popular drinks: Smirnoff, Bomonti, Lemon Merlot, Café de Paris, Amaretto, Long Island, Talisker etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 150 for two (including drinks)
15. The United Pub
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Known for its minimalistic interiors, The United Pub is a great hangout spot during the day and at night. It has exposed brick walls, wooden tables and a fully stocked bar at the centre of the room. There is also an outdoor seating area. The establishment Calamari, burgers, fries, mussels, salads, brownies, sausages and more are some snacks on The United Pub’s menu. You can also enjoy the soothing music that plays in the background.
Address: Sinanpaşa, Şht. Asım Cd. No:26, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 10:30 AM - 2:00 AM Popular drinks: Captain Morgan, Kahlua, Dry Martini, Margarita, Grey Goose, Kadeh, Guinness, Lattés etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 160 for two (including drinks)
16. The Harp Irish Pub
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Close to the Bosphorus, The Harp Irish Pub is a well-known Irish bar in Istanbul that attracts large crowds of locals and tourists alike. It has very simple decor with indoor and outdoor seating, including green walls, wooden tables, hanging lights and a few pictures plastered on the walls. Interestingly, the bar, which is fully stocked with alcohol, is outdoors. You can watch live football matches or have fun at the pool table. The menu features a bunch of yummy food such as burgers, sausage platters, french fries, salads, sandwiches, grilled chicken and fried ice cream.
Address: Caferağa Mh, Misbah Muayyeş Sk. No:9 D:1, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM Popular drinks: Tuborg, Heineken, Chimay Red, Gara Guzu Porter, Jack Daniel’s, Irish Rose, Tequila Sunrise etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 200 for two (including drinks)
17. Red River Pub
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Open from morning to the late hours of the night, the Red River Pub in Istanbul is a Western-style restaurant and bar. Besides its vast selection of alcoholic drinks, the pub is also known for serving mouth-watering Turkish food, including traditional breakfast plates, salads, wraps, Istanbul meatballs and kebabs. The interiors feature leather couches, wooden tables, a wooden bar and several pictures framed on the walls. You can opt for outdoor seating as well. The Red River Pub also screens live football matches.
Address: Hoca Paşa, Hüdavendigar Cd. No:44, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM Popular drinks: Heineken, Bosphorus Breeze, Sex on the Beach, Jagerneister, Martel, Yerli Votka etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 210 for two (including drinks)
18. Joker No:19
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Joker No:19 is an urban bar in Istanbul that boasts modern and minimalistic decor; wooden benches and chairs, vines and bulbs hanging off the rood and an entire wall of glass. It is best known for its unique cocktails. Though it is open throughout the day, it is a great hangout spot at night when all the bulbs are lit up, creating cosy vibes. There is indoor as well as outdoor seating here. Low music plays in the background throughout the day and makes for a comfortable ambience. Some snacks you can try out here include nachos, tacos, salads, burgers and pizzas.
Address: Sinanpaşa, Beşiktaş Cd. No:19, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM Popular drinks: Hobgoblin, Gara Guzu Red Ale, London Porter, Hanky Panky, Whisky Sour, Don Julio etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 200 for two (including drinks)
19. Craft Beer Lab
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A must-visit bar for draft and craft beer enthusiasts, the Craft Beer Lab has a great ambience for a night out with friends. Boasting casual yet chic interiors, the establishment has wooden and exposed brick walls, dim lighting, neon signs and vines on wooden beams. The outside seating area also has fairy lights hanging off the trees above. It is an excellent place to watch live sports like football. Its menu has several dishes like fries, cheese platters, soups, sandwiches, burgers, cheesecakes and more.
Address: Sinanpaşa, Şair Nedim Cd. No:4, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 2:00 PM - 1:30 AM Popular drinks: Efes Pilsen, American Bud, Kwak, Trokya Dakka, Guinness, Moscow Mule, Hallertau, Singleton etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 250 for two (including drinks)
20. Old English Pub, Cafe & Restaurant
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The Old English Pub, Cafe & Restaurant in Istanbul is an excellent choice whether you want breakfast or late-night drinks. The bar in the centre of the room has simple English-style interiors that include brick walls, seating booths and photos on the walls with neon green lights around them. What’s interesting is that there are chandeliers on the ceiling made entirely from beer bottles. Soft music also plays at all times. Along with its tasty cocktails, the pub is also famous for its food like salads, french fries, chicken buckets, pizzas, grilled salmon and risotto. You can sit inside or in the outside seating area.
Address: Suadiye, Kazım Özalp Sk. 15/D, 34740 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Turkey Timings: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Monday to Thursday, Sunday), 11:00 AM - 3:00 AM (Friday to Saturday) Popular drinks: Erdinger, Frederick IPA, Arcadia, Cosmopolitan, Chesterfield, Beefeater, Cardinal Melon etc. Average cost: Approximately TL 220 for two (including drinks)
There is no shortage of bars in Istanbul that are popular for their extensive drinks menu, delicious food, lively music, shows etc., and guaranteeing a wonderful time. Whether with friends, family or alone, you are sure to have fun at these establishments, especially since many regularly host parties where you can dance the night away! Moreover, many bars are open throughout the day and are a great place for breakfast or lunch.
