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Whether you’re seeking a relaxing after-work drink, an excellent social environment, a flavorful cocktail, or a night on the town, this countdown to some of the best bars in Istanbul’s Bosphorus region is sure to cater to all of your needs. The nightlife of Istanbul is equally as captivating as the city by day and so with these amazing stops, every night is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.

Bosphorus by night

Litera Bar

Bar, Restaurant, Turkish

The Litera Bar is located on the top floor of the Goethe Institute and so it goes without saying that the views of the city and the sunsets are astoundingly beautiful. As you recline with your drinks, your vantage point offers you and incredible perspective of the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque and many more of Istanbul’s most infamous attractions. The quietly intimate ambiance will soothe you as you choose from a variety of wines and alcoholic drinks, all with international influences.

Gaja Restaurant

Restaurant, Turkish

In this restaurant, you can enjoy your drinks in a sophisticated rooftop lounge. Music plays throughout the day keeping the mood social and comfortable. Later into the evening this changes to smoother lounge music that invites an elegant air of relaxation. The outdoor deck is especially popular due to its view of the Bosphorus so we recommend booking a table ahead of time to avoid disappointment! There is a stunning array of cocktails for you to enjoy as well as wines and other beverages too.

La Mancha

La Mancha has great drinks and a range of fresh and flavorful tapas as a delicious accompaniment. Enjoy wine, cocktails and an array of familiar, favorite drinks with a romantic view over the city that will captivate you again and again. The brandy is especially recommended! On some nights you can also be serenaded by live musicians to add something special to your evening. La Mancha | Courtesy of La Mancha

Le Fumoir

Bar, Restaurant, French

Le Fumoir Restaurant is adjoining Georges Hotel and celebrates all things French to provide a dining and drinking experience, with the sophistication that French dining is known and admired for. Their wine list is especially noteworthy and will perfectly complement an afternoon or evening in relaxed bliss, watching the stunning city from above. There is also a terrace that you can enjoy a drink on, towering over the city as it sprawls magnificently beneath you. Le Fumoir boasts a number of regular locals as well as rave reviews from visitors.

Mixo Terrace

Market

Cocktail
© Michael Korcuska/Flickr
This is a restaurant and bar with flair. The chic color scheme of red and black sets the tone for a night with Mediterranean soul. Drink in the glimmering Istanbul skyline as you sample some of the high quality offerings from the extensive wine list. The staff are renowned for their attentive and friendly service so you can be sure that every need will be catered for with efficiency. The interior is light, and spacious, guaranteeing that you will feel at ease and content from the moment you arrive.

Anjelique

Bar, Restaurant, Turkish

This dreamy bar serves up an array of artistic cocktails and alcoholic drinks. The outside terrace on the middle floor is incredibly popular due to the live DJ that plays most nights, injecting a party atmosphere into your evening. The lower floor is a night club for those who wish to have a wilder night, but this does not disturb the diners on the top floor enjoying a meal in peace and serenity. No matter the night you’re seeking, Anjelique will deliver.

Reina

Bar, Pub Grub

This bar/club is an essential stop for anyone seeking a party. There is a lively environment through the night so expect many fellow-party goers. The view of the Bosphorus Bridge from this unique vantage point is astonishing and the music is a pulse that will carry you hour by rhythmic hour to sunrise.

About the author

Ayse Huseyin, known to her friends as “Blue” was born in London, but was flying around the world before she could even walk. Her life-long fascination with world culture and literature has seen her working in the mountains of New Mexico, trekking across New Zealand, and constantly hungry for her next adventure. To her, life is a series of extraordinary memories not yet made and she’d rather start sooner than later! She’s currently an English undergraduate who aspires to spend her life drifting round the world, meeting new people, being inspired, and filling notebooks as she goes.

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