Watching the sunset in Istanbul is quite the unique experience as the iconic city skyline and the Bosphorus change from one colour to the next until the darkness of night sets in completely. We picked out our favourite spots to watch as the natural light disappears and the city turns on its artificial lights to highlight its most beautiful structures at night.
One of the most iconic towers in Istanbul is also one of the best places to watch the sunset. The medieval stone tower has a balcony which has a panoramic view, so you can definitely move around until you catch the perfect view.
Mikla Rooftop Bar
Bar, Restaurant
One of the city’s most well-known haute cuisine restaurants is located at the top of the Marmara Pera Hotel and therefore has an excellent view of the city. In the winter months, the restaurant’s terrace is an amazing spot to catch the sunset, while in the summer the completely open rooftop bar offers an even more unobstructed view of the sunset.
This is a totally no-frills spot in the city to sit down and sip on some Turkish tea while the vista, which goes from Sultanahmet all the way to the Asian side on a clear day, just stretches out before your eyes. A great place to watch the sunset for free, in case you’re not in the mood for tea.
Istanbul
Apartment
The name of this very popular restaurant says almost everything about its view, because it is indeed a 360-degree vista of Istanbul. You can only imagine how amazing the city looks as you enjoy your cocktail and order dinner.
Located on a small islet off the coast of the Üsküdar neighbourhood, this former Ottoman watchtower now has a café and restaurant where you can sit down and enjoy an amazing view of the sunset right from the water.
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Büyük Çamlıca Tepesi
Park
Situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, Büyük Çamlıca Tepesi is one of the highest points in the city so there’s no need to say how amazing the view of the sunset is from this particular point. There’s also a lovely park with little cafés all around, so you can spend a while gazing at the view.
This famous café has been popular since the 18th century and once you go there you’ll know exactly why. Pierre Loti overlooks the Golden Horn from an elevated point allowing for a great opportunity to watch the sunset from a different angle.
Kalpazankaya
Restaurant
This café and restaurant on Burgazada is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in a more natural setting. While you sip on some beer and eat your meze, watch the sun go down into the vast sea that stretches out before you (very romantic!).
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