3 editor picks in Istanbul.
3 listening bars in Istanbul our editors have drunk at, sorted by score. All Istanbul nightlife.
Arkaoda on Kadife Sokak in Caferağa has run since 1999 as the Asian-side listening reference, an unmarked door cafe by day that turns at night to an analog.
TipNo sign on the door; look for the number 18. The back room is the music seat. Underground DJ programming and small live sets; the schedule moves on Instagram.
The Badau on Duatepe Sokak in Yeldeğirmeni is the Eren Noyan gastro-jazz room founded in 2016 in this Kadıköy quarter, a compact stage hosting Turkish.
TipTicketed concerts; book ahead via the venue. Kitchen serves before the set. Kadıköy ferry is the easiest cross-water route; cab back is fastest later.
Mezkla Hi-Fi Bar on Yeşim Sokak in Akat above the Mezkla Mexican kitchen runs an upstairs audiophile room with a custom sound system, sound-insulated walls.
TipClosed Mondays; the hi-fi bar is upstairs from the restaurant. Akmerkez and the Akatlar metrobus are the closest stops. Book ahead Friday and Saturday.
Guided tour · 4 hours
Discover Istanbul's street food scene on a guided night tour. Ride the historic Tünel funicular, taste iconic dishes, and explore the city's hidden gems.
3 hours
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3.5 hours
Experience the magic of Istanbul by night with TravelShop Booking’s Daily 1001 Turkish Night Dinner Show.