Guide: where to pop out in Istanbul for a drink

Guide: where to pop out in Istanbul for a drink

June 11, 2025

Istanbul, the city that connects Europe and Asia, is not only a fascinating history and breathtaking sights. It's also a bustling metropolis that, once the sun goes down, offers countless ways to spend an evening with a delicious drink. Whether you're a lover of classic cocktails, a seeker of innovative concoctions, or simply want to sip a cold beer while admiring the city's skyline, Istanbul has something for you. In this guide, we'll take you on a tour of the most interesting bars and pubs where you can not only quench your thirst, but also get a real feel for the nightlife of this magical city. From elegant rooftop bars overlooking the Bosphorus, to cozy establishments in historic districts, to modern cocktail bars - discover with us the places that will make your evening in Istanbul truly unforgettable.

Ad

Elegance and innovation - Istanbul's best cocktail bars

Start our journey with places that are sure to delight lovers of sophisticated cocktails and modern design. The first stop is 'Flekk', a true gem among Istanbul's cocktail bars. Located in the trendy Beyoğlu district, Flekk attracts both local foodies and tourists looking for a unique experience. The bar is known for its innovative and light flavors that are a true feast for the palate. Flekk's interior impresses with its stylish decor, and outdoor seating areas allow you to enjoy the city's atmosphere. What's more, the bartenders are not only professional, but also extremely friendly - always willing to advise and help you choose the perfect cocktail.

Another place worth your attention is 'No1 Cocktail Bar'. This small but full of character establishment is located in the heart of the Beyoğlu district, just steps away from the bustling İstiklal Street. No1 Cocktail Bar is where tradition meets modernity. The menu offers both classic cocktails and original creations that will delight even the most demanding connoisseurs. Guests praise not only the quality of the drinks, but also the friendly atmosphere and professional service.

For those looking for something truly unique, we recommend a visit to 'Moretenders' Cocktail Crib & Sushi'. This place is a real treat for cocktail and sushi lovers. The unique combination of a cocktail bar and a sushi restaurant creates an extraordinary dining experience. The interior of Moretenders impresses with its original decor, and the cocktail menu is as impressive as the sushi offerings. It's the perfect place to start the evening or enjoy a romantic dinner while listening to techno music.

When comparing the three places, several aspects are worth noting. Flekk stands out with the most innovative approach to cocktails and the highest customer rating (4.8), while offering moderate prices. No1 Cocktail Bar is a great option for those looking for a more intimate atmosphere, with a 4.6 rating and also moderate prices. Moretenders' Cocktail Crib & Sushi, on the other hand, is the most expensive of the places described, but offers a unique combination of cocktails and sushi, which may appeal to those looking for a complete dining experience. Note that prices at Moretenders are higher, as reflected in the 4.3 rating - slightly lower than the other two bars.

Whichever of these bars you choose, each guarantees a memorable experience and the opportunity to enjoy delicious cocktails in the heart of Istanbul. Keep in mind that these popular venues can get crowded on weekends, so consider booking in advance, especially if you're planning a visit with a larger group.

Million-dollar view -. rooftop bars with Istanbul skyline

If you're looking for a place that combines delicious drinks with breathtaking views, Istanbul has something special for you. The rooftop bars are true gems of this city's nightlife, offering not only excellent cocktails, but above all unforgettable panoramas of the Bosphorus and the historic center.

One such place is 'Zula Galata Rooftop Bar', located in the heart of the historic Galata district. This place delights not only with a view of the iconic Galata Tower, but also with panoramic views stretching to both sides of the Bosphorus Strait. Zula Galata is famous for its proprietary cocktails, which are a true work of art. Especially recommended is the 'Love is Dead' cocktail, which guests describe as excellent. The bar offers a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for both a romantic evening for two and a gathering with friends. With a rating of 4.8, Zula Galata is one of the highest rated rooftop bars in Istanbul.

However, it's worth remembering that you have to pay for the luxurious views and unique cocktails - prices at Zula Galata are among the higher in the city. Nevertheless, many guests find the experience well worth the price, especially given the unparalleled location and quality of service.

For those who prefer a more traditional atmosphere but still want to enjoy the beautiful views, a visit to 'U2 Istanbul Irish Pub' is recommended. Although not a typical rooftop bar, it offers a unique combination of Irish flair with Turkish hospitality and beautiful views of the city. U2 Istanbul Irish Pub is the place to sip excellent Guinness while enjoying a warm, friendly atmosphere. The bar is run by charismatic owner Leo, who makes sure that every guest feels at home.

U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, with a rating of 4.7, is a slightly cheaper alternative to upscale rooftop bars, while offering an authentic, international experience. It's the perfect place for those who appreciate direct contact with the local community and want to feel the true vibe of Istanbul nightlife.

When comparing Zula Galata Rooftop Bar and U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, there are a few key differences worth noting. Zula Galata offers a more luxurious, sophisticated experience with an emphasis on proprietary cocktails and spectacular views. It is the perfect place for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests. U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that offers a more familiar, international atmosphere. It's a great choice for those looking for a place to have more casual meetings and conversations with locals.

Whether you choose a chic rooftop bar or a cozy Irish pub, both guarantee a memorable evening in Istanbul. Keep in mind that for rooftop bars, especially during the summer season, it's a good idea to think about booking in advance to ensure a seat with the best view. In the case of U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, the atmosphere is more casual and there is usually no problem finding a seat, even on weekends.

Plans for the future - the development of Istanbul's bar scene

As a city with a rich history and a dynamic present, Istanbul is constantly evolving, and with it, the bar scene is also changing. In recent years, there has been a fascinating trend of combining traditional elements of Turkish culture with modern cocktail concepts and interior design. This fusion of old and new creates unique experiences that attract both locals and tourists from around the world.

One example of this trend is the growing popularity of bars that specialize in local spirits, such as rakı or Turkish wines, but serve them in modern, often surprising ways. More and more bars are experimenting with traditional Turkish ingredients, creating innovative cocktails that capture the spirit of a city at the crossroads of cultures.

Also worth noting is the growing environmental awareness among bar owners and their customers. More and more venues are focusing on sustainability, using local and seasonal ingredients, minimizing waste and introducing eco-friendly solutions. This trend is likely to strengthen in the coming years, which could lead to the emergence of new environmentally oriented bar concepts.

We also can't forget the impact of technology on Istanbul's bar scene. Many establishments are introducing innovative solutions, such as interactive menus, drink ordering apps or even augmented reality elements that enhance the customer experience. We can expect technology to play an increasingly important role in shaping unique bar experiences in the future.

At the same time, with the growth of the cocktail scene, we are seeing a growing interest in the art of bartending among young Turks. More and more are opting for professional bartending training and competitions, which will certainly contribute to the overall level of service and innovation in Istanbul bars.

The potential of Istanbul's lesser-known neighborhoods is also worth mentioning. While areas such as Beyoğlu and Galata are already well known for their nightlife, more and more interesting bars are popping up in neighborhoods such as Kadıköy and Beşiktaş. These areas offer a more authentic, local experience and could become the city's new nightlife centers in the coming years.

Looking ahead, we can expect Istanbul's bar scene to continue to evolve, combining elements of tradition and modernity. The city will likely maintain its position as one of the most exciting destinations for cocktail and nightlife lovers, offering unique experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

For those visiting Istanbul in the coming years, keep an eye on the latest trends and venues opening. The city is constantly surprising with new concepts and venues that are quickly becoming iconic. Whether you prefer elegant rooftop bars, cozy pubs or avant-garde cocktail bars, Istanbul is sure to have something that will satisfy your expectations and make your stay in this fascinating city truly unforgettable.

Remember, however, that despite the booming bar scene, Istanbul remains a city rich in culture and tradition. Respect local customs and be open to new experiences. It is this mix of modernity and tradition that makes Istanbul's nightlife so unique and fascinating to visitors from around the world.

Similar articles

Ad