All our advice and recommendations for a beautiful New Year’s Eve in Istanbul

As every year, we share our recommendations for celebrating the New Year in the only city in the world that straddles Europe and Asia: Istanbul. Our “special December 31” article will help you prepare your evening to celebrate New Year’s Eve in one of the many establishments in the city or at events we have selected for you. Between restaurants, nightclubs, and concerts, here are some addresses and tips to make the most of your evening on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in Istanbul!

A BIT OF HISTORY

Learn a bit about New Year’s Eve in Turkey and a few tips:

As soon as you arrive, you will quickly notice Istanbulites’ fondness for this celebration during your walks in certain neighborhoods. Christmas decorations richly adorn the streets and buildings, with fairy lights and Christmas trees everywhere. Like Christmas celebrations in the West, Istanbulites celebrate the new year. The Christmas tree, an essential element of the festivities, is actually called the “New Year’s tree.” Gifts are also exchanged during this evening, where tradition dictates wearing red underwear to attract luck for the coming year.

Many Istanbulites prefer to celebrate at home or at private parties, indeed the first thing to consider is that as everywhere everything is full, expensive, but Istanbul is so populated that all establishments will be full. Moreover, our first advice is to book as soon as possible, and especially not to go randomly to a neighborhood at the risk of spending your evening outside, in traffic jams, or in a tourist trap.

If you want to party until the early morning, we advise you to opt for an establishment offering dinner and evening, or else choose a restaurant close to the evening. Otherwise, you risk spending your New Year’s Eve in traffic jams or on the sidewalk looking for a taxi! If you wish, we also organize transfers for the evening. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.

The common point of all these evenings is that you will have to spend. It is almost impossible to find a nice place with a view or a beautiful setting at a low price. The enthusiasm of Istanbulites and tourists for the new year has contributed to a real inflation: almost all major hotels, restaurants, and clubs offer New Year’s Eve packages including dinner and evening. Generally, everything is included (alcohol and meals).

Find our selection of addresses with a diverse choice of establishments (palaces, typical restaurants, bars, and clubs…). Do not hesitate to contact us if you wish to have our opinion on other addresses.

Here is the list of places to celebrate New Year’s Eve by theme and by neighborhoods:

RESTAURANTS WITH MEAL AND EVENING

GALATA / KARAKÖY

Frankie Istanbul

Located in Galataport, Frankie is one of Istanbul’s most sought-after venues, offering an elegant atmosphere that blends gastronomy and festivity. The evening begins with a refined dinner and later transforms into a lively party with a renowned DJ.

Ambience: Elegant and trendy
Price:

• 10,000 TL (approx. 200 Euros) minimum spend per person for dinner
• 6,000 TL (approx. 120 Euros) for the bar

Reservation & payment: Full prepayment of the required minimum amount is mandatory to confirm the reservation.

Nardis Jazz Club

The iconic jazz club of Galata is a must-visit address for jazz lovers. Its New Year’s Eve program features renowned artists, ensuring an intimate and musical atmosphere.

Ambience: Intimate and warm
Price:

• 3,000 TL entrance fee (approx. 60 Euros)
• 1,500 TL (approx. 30 Euros) minimum spend per person à la carte

Reservation & payment: A prepayment of 3,000 TL (approx. 60 Euros) is required to confirm the reservation.

Tershane Karaköy

A friendly restaurant with modern décor and cuisine highlighting local flavors. The evening includes refined dishes and a festive atmosphere.

Ambience: Friendly and modern
Price: 6,000 TL (approx. 120 Euros) per person (VAT included). Limited beverages.

Reservation & payment: A prepayment is required.

The Bank Hotel

The Bank Hotel is located in Karaköy, one of Istanbul’s most emblematic districts, renowned for its rich historical past. With its elegant design, The Bank Hotel Istanbul offers much more than accommodation. From its rooftop restaurant, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of old Istanbul while savoring international cuisine, promising a memorable experience.

Three New Year’s Eve options are available at The Bank Hotel:

Serica Restaurant – 6:00 pm – 12:00 am

• Ambience: Modern
• Price: 11,500 TL (approx. 230 Euros) per person (drinks not included)

The Bank Roof Bar – 10:00 pm – 2:00 am

• Ambience: Relaxed
• Price: 14,400 TL (approx. 295 Euros) per person. Price includes entrance and unlimited drinks.

Reservation & payment: Full prepayment is required to confirm the reservation. No refunds in case of cancellation.

PERA

Pera Palace (Grand Gatsby Party)
Step into the elegance of the 1920s. This legendary hotel hosts a Grand Gatsby–themed evening featuring swing dancing, a jazz orchestra, and vintage cocktails.

Ambience: Glamorous and retro
Price: Approx. €405 per person

Reservation & payment: Full prepayment is required. No refunds in case of cancellation.

Barnathan

Nestled on a rooftop with views over Istanbul and the Galata Tower, Barnathan overlooks the old city. With a carefully curated selection of local and international wines, the restaurant offers a fixed menu on the rooftop or in the garden for New Year’s Eve, followed by a DJ party.

Ambience: Friendly and modern
Price: 10,000 TL (approx. 200 Euros), drinks included

The evening begins with a welcome cocktail, followed by carefully prepared menus and unlimited local drinks.

Barnathan Garden:

• 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm (Cello recital): 5,000 TL (approx. 102 Euros)
• 9:00 pm – 1:30 am (Orchestra): 10,000 TL (approx. 200 Euros), drinks included

Barnathan Roof:

• 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm: 5,000 TL (approx. 102 Euros)
• 8:45 pm – 1:30 am (DJ performance): 10,000 TL (approx. 200 Euros)

Barnathan Roof – Small Terrace:

• Second session 8:45 pm – 1:30 am: 7,000 TL (approx. 142 Euros)

Reservation & payment: Reservation is confirmed upon payment.
Cancellation deadline: December 25, 2025. No refunds after this date.

KARAKÖY

Peninsula Istanbul

The new Bosphorus palace in Karaköy offers stunning views of the city and the entrance to the Golden Horn. For New Year’s Eve, The Peninsula offers two special options in an elegant and festive atmosphere:

Dinner in the Lobby:
Start with a welcome cocktail followed by a five-course dinner in the impressive lobby setting.

• Ambience: Elegant and festive
• Price: 28,000 TL + 10% service charge (approx. 630 Euros), five-course menu included (drinks not included)

Alcoholic beverage package:

• 4,800 TL + 10% service charge (approx. 110 Euros)

Restaurant Galada: Chic and modern

• Price: 19,900 TL + 10% service charge (approx. 450 Euros)

Reservation & payment: Full prepayment is required.

KURUÇEŞME

Alaf

Nestled in Kuruçeşme by the waterfront with panoramic views of the Bosphorus, Alaf combines Anatolian cuisine with modernity. The venue offers a chic and romantic setting, with a lively terrace for the after-party.

Ambience: Chic, romantic, and gastronomic
Price:

• 5,850 TL (approx. 120 Euros) for the menu + 10% service
• 3,500 TL + 10% service (approx. 71 Euros) for unlimited drinks

Reservation & payment: Advance reservation is mandatory.

ORTAKÖY

Banyan

Offering one of the most beautiful views of the Bosphorus, Banyan stands out for its Asian fusion cuisine and refined atmosphere. The evening includes live music performances with a DJ and violinist.

Ambience: Refined
Price:

• 180 Euros per person (soft drinks included)
• 230 Euros (local alcoholic drinks included)
• 290 Euros (all drinks included)

Reservation & payment: Full prepayment is required.
Cancellation policy:

• 50% refund for cancellations made one week before New Year’s Eve
• No refund for cancellations made within one week of New Year’s Eve

Çırağan Kempinsky

Located on the Bosphorus waterfront with breathtaking city views, Çırağan Kempinski is an iconic palace converted into a luxury hotel. For New Year’s Eve, it offers several gastronomic and festive experiences:

Ballroom:
Begin the evening with a welcome cocktail, followed by a six-course gala dinner in the majestic ballroom, accompanied by live music and a DJ.

• Ambience: Elegant
• Price: 23,000 TL (approx. 470 Euros) per person, VAT included. Includes dinner, non-alcoholic drinks, tea, coffee, and water.

Reservation & payment: Full payment required. Cancellation possible up to 15 days before the event. No refunds after that.

Rüya Restaurant:
Celebrate with a five-course menu.

• Price: 18,000 TL (approx. 367 Euros) per person, including menu, tea, coffee, water, and soft drinks.

Reservation & payment: Full payment required. Cancellation possible up to 15 days before the event. No refunds after that.
Dress code: Elegant evening wear

Le Fumoir:
Welcome the New Year with signature cocktails and a live DJ performance in a chic and lively atmosphere.

• Price: 8,500 TL (approx. 173 Euros) per person, VAT included.

Reservation & payment: 100% prepayment required. No refunds for cancellations made after December 15. Payment by bank transfer or credit card.

Dress code: Elegant evening wear

Four Seasons Bosphorus

Four Seasons Bosphorus

Nestled along the Bosphorus in Istanbul, the Four Seasons combines luxury and history in a former Ottoman palace, offering magnificent views, impeccable service, and an elegant setting.

ANTIK PASHA BALLROOM
Refined menu with unlimited local beverages.

Three seating categories offering different views and proximity to the stage:

• Category 1: 39,500 TL per person (approx. 806 Euros)
• Category 2: 33,500 TL per person (approx. 683 Euros)
• Category 3: 27,500 TL per person (approx. 560 Euros)

All packages include a gourmet menu and unlimited local drinks.
Note: First course served at 8:30 pm.
Prepayment required.

MOONLIGHT PARTY – AQUA RESTAURANT

Theme: Midnight Elegance
Hours: 8:00 pm – 1:00 am

• Menu: 23,100 TL (approx. 470 Euros) per person. Local alcoholic drinks and VAT included.
  Includes a welcome glass of sparkling wine.
  Additional beverages are not included.

ANATOLIAN ELEGANCE – IGLOO EXPERIENCE BY THE BOSPHORUS

Description: Private setting under the stars, dinner in a seaside igloo with Bosphorus views.

• Menu: 23,100 TL (approx. 470 Euros) per person. Local alcoholic drinks and VAT included.
• Igloo rental: 30,000 TL (approx. 610 Euros) per igloo (8:00 pm – 1:00 am)
• Party package: 1 bottle of champagne included

Exclusive New Year’s Eve Countdown Party

Access to the midnight party from 11:30 pm, festive atmosphere, selected premium alcoholic drinks.

• Price: 5,750 TL (approx. 120 Euros) per person

For children: Special arrangements available in the kids’ club for VIP guests (ages 6–12).

Dress code: Elegant and smart casual

Reservation & payment: Full prepayment is required to confirm the reservation.

CLUBS AND NIGHTCLUBS

Izaka Terrace

On December 31, 2025, Izaka Terrace Bar hosts the city’s most anticipated celebration.

December 31, 2025 – NEW YEAR’S EVE
Queto, Ece Deniz, Sayanora Art Dance Show
Live on the stage of IZAKA Terrace Bar

Bistro – Early Bird
Price: 10,000 TRY per person
Bistros are for 2 people.

Private Booth – Early Bird
Price: 10,000 TRY per person
Capacity: 4 people.

Private Booth
Price: 12,500 TRY per person
Capacity: 4 people.

Address:
CVK Park Bosphorus
Gümüşsuyu Mahallesi, İnönü Caddesi No: 8
Istanbul, Turkey

BABYLON

Babylon is one of Istanbul’s most iconic music venues, known for its festive and eclectic atmosphere and its strong commitment to high-quality music.

Ambience: Lively and casual
Reservation: Online ticket sales only, non-refundable.

KASTEL

Kastel opens its doors to welcome the very first moments of the New Year, on the most intense night of the year, charged with collective energy.

Among the leading figures of the electronic music scene, Volkan Gündüz will headline the night with a set that will set the tone for the first hours of 2026.
Joining him: Alex Macris, a key name on the international scene; Emre İsiyel, known for his dynamic sound; Ymir, whose dark textures keep building; Fromher, elevating the melodic energy; and Alexandr Grecov, bringing a unique depth to the night.

Keeping the rhythm alive until the early morning hours is Kastel’s rising local talent, Mert Guzhan.

Kastel
Hüseyinağa Mahallesi, Kamer Hatun Caddesi No:10
34435 Beyoğlu, Istanbul

RESTAURANTS WITH FIXED MENU

BEYOĞLU / KARAKÖY

Mahkeme Lokantası
Mahkeme Lokantası This is one of the city’s classic taverns that showcases traditional Turkish dishes to share (mezzes) with quality ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and friendly.
Price: 6250 TL (about 130 Euros) drinks included.
Reservation and payment: No prepayment is requested. Payment is made on-site.

Eleos Restaurant
This seafood and Turkish mezzes restaurant offers an authentic culinary experience in a warm and welcoming setting, accompanied by a live DJ for the evening.
Price: 6000 TL (120 Euros) unlimited drinks included.
Reservation and payment: a prepayment of 1000 TL (27.5 Euros) per person is requested 1 week before New Year’s Eve. No refund possible in case of cancellation.

Mikla 
Mikla Mikla’s New Anatolian Kitchen combines respect for tradition and a sense of innovation. The restaurant serves as an ambassador for the producers it works with, as well as for the great diversity of products that Turkey has to offer. The chefs use only the best ingredients. The restaurant also has one of the best wine lists in the city.
Price: 13500 5 glass of wine included
Reservation and payment: full payment is demanded in advance.

Le Fumoir at the Georges Hotel
Le Fumoir, the French restaurant, and the rooftop terrace bar of the Georges offer a magnificent view over the Bosphorus Peninsula, the Prince’s Islands, and the magic of Istanbul.
Price: 200 € + 12.5% service charge (drinks not included)
Reservation and payment: Full payment is required in advance to confirm the reservation.

Firuze
This is a beautiful rooftop terrace restaurant in the Pera district with an incredible view over the Golden Horn. It is located in the building of the Istanbul Arts and Culture Foundation. Here, you can enjoy mezzes and good fish dishes. After a certain hour on weekends, people start dancing to Turkish music.
Price: 3500 TL + 12% (about 80 Euros) (limited drinks included).
Reservation and payment: A prepayment of 30% per reservation is requested.

SULTANAHMET / FATIH

Mezzepotamia
This restaurant blends Mediterranean cuisine and creativity in an elegant setting. The New Year’s menu highlights quality local products.
Price: 250€/person+10% service charge (approximately 13,700 TL), premium drinks included.

Reservation & payment: A 100% prepayment is required to confirm your reservation.

Giritli
Located in the old town, Giritli is a restaurant known for its mezzes and fresh seafood, served in a traditional wooden Ottoman house. It holds a Bib Gourmand for good quality at a moderate price.
Reservation and payment: A prepayment of 3250 TL + 10 % of service (75 Euros) is requested.

Balıkçı Sabahattin
Balıkçı Sabahattin Open since 1927, this is a good address to eat fish and mezzes in the old town. Everything is fresh, local, and good, and you will also find locals unlike many other restaurants in the old town.
Price: A la cate menu
Reservation and payment: No prepayment is requested. Payment is made on-site.

Olden 1772 
One of the most remarkable buildings in Eminönü, the 250-year-old Muhsinzade inn, has been restored and opened as a hotel under the name of Han 1772. Offering its guests the essential flavors of Anatolian and Istanbul cuisine with modern interpretations, the Olden 1772 offers a high level of flavor with the local products it uses in its cuisine, while making sensitive choices in terms of sustainable development.
Price: 8000 TL (165 Euros) per person between 6:00 PM-9:00 PM and 12000 TL (245 Euros) per person between 9:00 PM and 1:00 AM. Drinks are not included.
Reservation and payment: A provision of 3000 TL is debited at the time of reservation and this amount is refunded upon your arrival at the restaurant.

OTHER RESTAURANTS WITH A LA CARTE MENU

BEYOĞLU

Ali Ocakbaşı Karaköy: known for its grills, Ali Ocakbaşı offers a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus from its terrace. An ideal place for those who appreciate well-prepared meats and the lively atmosphere of Karaköy.

Asmalı Cavit: this traditional bistro is famous for its mezzes and selection of rakı. Asmalı Cavit attracts a loyal clientele thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and authentic dishes.

Demeti: Demeti is appreciated for its good dishes, its mezzes, Turkish desserts, and its friendly atmosphere. A perfect place for an evening in the hustle and bustle of Beyoğlu.

Gümrük: Gümrük stands out with its creative cuisine and dishes inspired by local ingredients. This restaurant attracts gourmets in search of new flavors in a modern setting.

SULTANAHMET

Hamdi Eminönü: located near the spice market, Hamdi is renowned for its kebabs and its view of the Golden Horn. It is a must-visit for those looking to savor traditional Turkish cuisine with a spectacular view.

We wish you in advance our best wishes and would like to thank all our readers and valued clients for the year 2026!