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 Tuesday, December 31, 2024, 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 at Galataport, Frankie is one of the most popular places in Istanbul, offering an elegant atmosphere with a mix of gastronomy and festivity. The evening will start with a refined dinner and then transform into a festive ambiance with a renowned DJ. Ambiance: Elegant and trendy. Price: 8750 TL (about 240 Euros) minimum spend per person for dinner, and 5250 TL (144 Euros) for the bar. Reservation and payment: Full payment of the minimum amount required is demanded in advance to confirm your reservation. You can cancel your reservation until December 28. learn more by clicking here.

Nardis Jazz Club

The iconic Jazz Club of Galata is a must-visit for jazz enthusiasts. Its music program for the new year includes renowned artists, ensuring an intimate and musical atmosphere. Ambiance: Intimate and warm. Price: 2000 TL for entry (about 55 Euros), 1550 TL (42 Euros) for the menu (alcohol not included).
Learn more clicking here!
Reservation and payment: It is advisable to make a prepayment of 2000 TL (about 55 Euros) upon reservation.

Tershane Karaköy

A friendly restaurant with modern decor and cuisine highlighting local flavors. The evening includes refined dishes and a festive atmosphere.
Ambiance: Friendly and modern.
Price: 150€ per person (VAT included). Reservation and payment: A prepayment of 75€ is requested.

The Bank Hotel

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

3 options are offered for New Year’s Eve at the Bank Hotel:

Serica Restaurant – 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Ambiance: modern.
Price: 3500 TL (about 96 Euros) per person (drinks not included).

The Bank Roof Bar – 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Ambiance: casual
Price: 120€ per person (VAT included)

Lobby Restaurant & Bar – 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Ambiance: Modern
Price: 180€ per person (VAT and drinks included)

Reservation and payment: Full payment is required in advance to confirm the reservation. No refund in case of cancellation.

PERA

Pera Palace (Grand Gatsby Party)

Dive into the elegance of the 1920s, this legendary hotel offers an evening themed around the Grand Gatsby. The atmosphere is marked by swing dancing, a jazz orchestra, and vintage cocktails.
Ambiance: Glamorous and retro.
Price: 300€/person.
Learn more clicking here
Reservation and payment: Full payment is required in advance to confirm the reservation. In case of cancellation, no refund is made.

Simone

Nestled on a rooftop with a view over Istanbul, Simone offers a view of the old city. With a carefully selected range of local and international wines, the restaurant offers a fixed menu for New Year’s Eve.
Ambiance: Friendly and modern. Price: 4000 TL (about 110 Euros) + 12.5% service charge per person (drinks not included).
Reservation and payment: A prepayment of 2000 TL (about 55 Euros) is requested. It is possible to cancel before December 25.

KARAKÖY

Peninsula Istanbul

The new palace of the Bosphorus in Karaköy offers a splendid view 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:

Gala dinner in the hall: start with a welcome cocktail and continue with a five-course gala dinner in the impressive setting of the Lobby, animated by the band “Daddy Cool” performing a mix of Turkish and international songs.

Ambiance: Elegant and festive. Price: 18,500 TL + 10% service charge (about 527 Euros), including a five-course menu, non-alcoholic drinks, and a glass of Deutz champagne.

Mezzanine Option: Enjoy a more intimate evening with the same culinary offer, in a dedicated space. Price: 15,000 ₺ + 10% service charge (about 427 Euros).

Alcoholic beverage package: 4,500 ₺ + 10% service charge (about 128 Euros), including a selection of wines, beers, raki, Tanqueray 10 gin, and Ketel One vodka. Learn more

Reservation and payment: Full payment is required in advance to confirm the reservation. It is possible to cancel the reservation until December 15. Between December 15 and 25, 50% is refunded. Learn more clicking here.

KURUÇEŞME

Alaf

Nestled in Kuruçeşme by the water with a panoramic view of the Bosphorus, Alaf combines Anatolian cuisine and modernity. The place offers a chic and romantic setting, with a lively terrace for the after-party. Ambiance: chic, romantic, and gastronomic. Price: 5500 TL (156 Euros) for the menu, 2850 TL (81 Euros) additional for unlimited drinks.
Learn more clicking here.
Learn more Reservation and payment: Full payment is requested to finalize the reservation. In case of cancellation of the reservation; for cancellations notified up to a week in advance, the entirety of your payment will be refunded.

ORTAKÖY

Banyan

Offering one of the most beautiful views over the Bosphorus, the Banyan stands out with its Asian fusion cuisine and refined ambiance. The evening includes live musical performances with a DJ and violinist.
Ambiance: refined
Price: 350€ per person (drinks included).
Learn more clicking here

Reservation and payment: A prepayment of 100€ is requested to finalize the reservation. It is possible to cancel the reservation until December 28.

Çırağan Kempinsky

The Çırağan Kempinsky, located on the edge of the Bosphorus with a breathtaking view of the city, is an iconic palace converted into a luxury hotel. For New Year’s Eve, the Çırağan offers a variety of gastronomic and festive experiences:

Ballroom: Start the evening with a welcome cocktail, then continue with a six-course gala dinner in the majestic ballroom, accompanied by live music and a DJ for a festive and elegant atmosphere.
Ambiance: elegant
Price: 15,200 TL (433 Euros) per person, VAT included, including dinner, non-alcoholic drinks, tea, coffee, and water. Reservation and payment: full payment is required to finalize the reservation. The cancellation option is possible up to 15 days before the event. No refund will be made for cancellations made after the event.

Restaurant Tuğra: savor a dinner worthy of the sultans with a fixed menu of six courses showcasing the best of Ottoman and Turkish cuisine at the Tuğra restaurant.
Price: 12,000 TL (340 Euros) per person, including non-alcoholic drinks.
Reservation and payment: full payment is required to finalize the reservation. The cancellation option is possible up to 15 days before the event. There is no refund for cancellations made after the event.
Dress code: Elegant evening dress

Restaurant Bellini: celebrate with an Italian five-course menu at Bellini, for an evening with flavors of Italy.
Price: 10,400 TL (296 Euros) per person, including the 5-course menu, tea, coffee, water, sodas.
Reservation and payment: Full payment is required to finalize the reservation. The cancellation option is possible up to 15 days before the event, there is no refund for cancellations made after.
Dress code: Elegant evening dress

Le Fumoir: welcome the new year with special cocktails and a live DJ performance at Le Fumoir, for a chic and lively evening.
Price: 6,400 TL (about 182 Euros) per person, VAT included.
Reservation and payment: A 100% prepayment is requested to finalize the reservation. From December 15, there is no refund of the amount paid for cancellations made. Payment can be made by bank transfer or credit card.
Dress code: Elegant evening dress

Click hère to learn more.

Four Seasons Bosphorus

Nestled on the edge of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, the Four Seasons combines luxury and history in a former Ottoman palace. It offers magnificent views, impeccable service, and an elegant setting for an unforgettable experience.

Great Gatsby at Aqua restaurant

Hours: 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Description: Dive into an elegant evening themed around the “Great Gatsby” at the AQUA restaurant. Enjoy a 5-course dinner with live music and a dance show by Maral ATAMAN. The countdown to 2025 will take place on the terrace with champagne and cocktails offered, DJ, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.

Menu: 16,500 TL (about 470 Euros) per person, non-alcoholic drinks, and VAT included.

Aurora Borealis at the Bosphorus Ballroom

Hours: 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Description: Experience the magical spectacle of the aurora borealis at the Bosphorus Ballroom. Dine with a 5-course menu in the company of Irem DERLEN and her band. The countdown is also planned on the terrace with champagne, cocktails, and a spectacular view.

Menu: 17,900 TL (about 509 Euros) per person, local alcoholic drinks and VAT included.

Aurora Borealis in the Igloo

Hours: 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Description: For a unique evening, celebrate the new year in an igloo with a panoramic view of the Bosphorus. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with champagne, cocktails, DJ, and a special countdown.

Menu: 14,900 TL (425 Euros) per person, non-alcoholic drinks included.

Igloo rental fee: 21,900 TL (623 Euros), including a bottle of champagne.

For children: Special arrangements available in the playroom for small VIP guests (6-12 years).

Dress code: Elegant and casual

Reservation and payment:

A full prepayment is required to confirm your reservation.

Cancellation possible until December 20.

Each space offers a unique atmosphere to welcome the new year in luxury and festivity.

CLUBS AND NIGHTCLUBS

Suma Han (Route 2025)

Suma Han is a popular destination for electronic music enthusiasts. This underground space attracts renowned DJs who animate the scene until dawn with electro house music sets.
Ambiance: electronic and underground.
Price: 600 TL (17 euros) standing and 1750 TL (50 Euros) backstage.
Reservation: Ticket purchase online with no refund option, click here to book.

BABYLON – Oldies But Goldies

Babylon is one of Istanbul’s iconic venues, known for its festive, eclectic atmosphere and commitment to quality music. The “Oldies But Goldies” New Year’s Eve party is a nostalgic celebration of the biggest hits, from pop to rock through disco and funk.
Ambiance: Lively and relaxed.
Price: 800 TRY per person.
Reservation: Ticket sales online, non-refundable. Click here to book

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: 3750 TL (about 100 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: 4700 TL (133 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: 5500 TL + 12% (about 151 Euros) service charge (drinks not included)
Reservation and payment: full payment is demanded in advance. It is possible to cancel before December 24 and receive a refund of 25% of the prepayment.

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. It is possible to cancel before December 24.

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: 3000 TL + 12% (about 82 Euros), plus service charge (10%) (limited drinks included).
Reservation and payment: A prepayment of 3000 TL 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: 275€/person (premium drinks included).
Reservation and payment: A 100% prepayment is requested to confirm your reservation. It is possible to cancel the reservation until December 28.

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 1500 TL (41 Euros) is requested. It is possible to cancel until December 20.

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: 2700 TL (about 75 Euros), VAT and limited drinks included
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: 4000 TL (110 Euros) per person between 6:00 PM-9:00 PM and 6000 TL (165 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. It is possible to cancel the reservation until December 28. 

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 2024!