
The complete guide to spending New Year’s Eve in Istanbul
From fireworks over the Bosphorus to parties in Taksim Square, this is how to spend a New Year’s Eve in Istanbul.
A city where modern festivities intertwine with cultural traditions, Istanbul is a city with plenty to do and see year-round. But celebrating New Year’s Eve in Istanbul is even more spectacular, with the electric atmosphere of Taksim Square, the charm of a Bosphorus cruise under the fireworks, or the intimacy and warmth of a meyhane (local tavern). Enjoy views from rooftop dining at a restaurant with live entertainment, or explore Kadıköy for a more authentic and less crowded celebration. With so many things to do in Istanbul on New Year’s Eve, this guide provides you with the best options.
Everything you need to know about New Year’s Eve in Istanbul
New Year’s Eve fireworks: The fireworks display is over the Bosphorus Strait. Prime viewing locations include Ortaköy and Bebek.
Best free New Year’s Eve activity: Street celebrations in Taksim Square or Kadıköy.
Average temperature: 41 F to 50 F (5 C to 10 C).
What to avoid on New Year’s Eve: Istiklal Street can become overwhelmingly crowded, making it difficult to enjoy.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Istanbul on a cruise along the Bosphorus river
1. Witness the captivating display of fireworks on a Bosphorus cruise
A New Year’s Eve cruise on the Bosphorus provides an unparalleled vantage point from which to experience the spectacular fireworks display over the Istanbul skyline. Savor authentic local delicacies and admire the city from a distance in all its wonder and enchantment, all while you sail along one of the world’s busiest maritime gateways, the Strait of Bosphorus, which straddles the continental boundaries of Europe and Asia. There are so many things to do in Istanbul on New Year’s Eve, but a cruise on the Bosphorus is a highlight you don’t want to miss.
Insider tip
Secure your cruise tickets well in advance, especially for cruises featuring traditional Turkish music and dining. And while Istanbul’s winter is mild, it’s advisable to dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the evening on a boat cruise.
Book your Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul

Photo: Tarpanjeh
Bring in the New Year in Istanbul at the annual street party in Taksim square
2. Join the festive revelry in Taksim Square
One of the most fun things to do in Istanbul for the NYE celebrations is to attend a street party, and Taksim Square is the spot to be. Feel the electric atmosphere, dance to live music, and join the countdown to midnight alongside a fun crowd at the NYE party. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, and be mindful of your belongings and surroundings.
Insider tip
Not a fan of crowds? Consider exploring nearby areas like Beyoğlu for more low-key celebrations.
Address
Taksim Square, Şehit Muhtar, 34435 Beyoğlu/Istanbul, Turkey.
Discover more things to do in Taksim Square

Photo: Jorge Franganillo
Have an authentic Turkish meal at a meyhane on Nevizade Sokak
3. Experience an authentic Meyhane celebration in Nevizade Sokak
When considering how to spend New Year’s Eve in Istanbul, nothing provides a more intimate and authentic celebration than going to a meyhane. Celebrate as they did in the old days and still to this day, in a Turkish meyhane on Istiklal Street. Enjoy delicious meze (a selection of hot and cold dishes, typically served as an hors d’oeuvre), sip on raki (a clear brandy flavored with anise), listen to live music, and unwind in the warm, welcoming, and undeniably festive cheerfulness of meyhane culture.
Insider tip
Nevizade Sokak, a charming alley off Istiklal Street, is home to a variety of meyhanes, each offering a unique experience. Consider doing a food tour on Istiklal Street to explore different options.
Address and opening hours
Discover more things to do along Istiklal Street

Enjoy a dinner show with a view of the fireworks over the Bosphorus Bridge to ring in the new year in Istanbul
4. Dine with a view at a rooftop restaurant
Elevate your New Year’s Eve celebration with a dinner show in Istanbul. Many venues offer special set menus, live entertainment, and if you’re lucky, uninterrupted views of the fireworks.
Insider tip
Mikla restaurant, perched atop The Marmara Pera Hotel, is renowned for its stunning Bosphorus views and modern twist on Turkish cuisine. Leb-i Derya, in Beyoğlu, provides a more bohemian vibe but also with equally impressive views. Remember to book well in advance.
Book a dinner show in Istanbul

Photo: Guilhem Vellut
Take a ferry to Kadıköy and explore its hidden gems for a unique NYE celebration in Istanbul
5. Explore the festive charm of Kadıköy
Escape the crowds and experience a more authentic celebration in Kadıköy, located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Explore the vibrant streets, indulge in delicious street food, and discover the many hidden gems Istanbul has to offer, just off the beaten path.
Insider tip
Stroll along Bagdat Caddesi, a bustling street known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse cafes and bars. The ferry ride to Kadıköy itself presents stunning views of the city skyline, adding to the experience.
Address
Find fun activities in Kadıköy

Photo: Peter O'Connor aka anemoneprojectors
Indulge in a traditional Turkish feast on New Year's Eve in Istanbul
6. Savor a traditional Turkish New Year’s Eve feast
Indulge in a culinary journey with a traditional Turkish New Year’s Eve feast. Many restaurants prepare special menus featuring roasted turkey, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), and baklava (a dessert made of filo pastry with chopped nuts and honey). Traditionally, the whole turkey is prepared and stuffed with rice, chestnuts, and currants before being seasoned with cinnamon or allspice. Other accompaniments such as potatoes and vegetables are served in abundance.
Insider tip
Sample a variety of meze to experience the full spectrum of Turkish flavors. For a truly immersive experience, consider joining a cooking class in Istanbul to learn the art of preparing these dishes yourself.
Book a cooking class in Istanbul
FAQs
1. Are tickets required for events on New Year’s Eve in Istanbul?
Many events, such as cruises and special dinners, require tickets, and booking in advance is strongly recommended. Street celebrations in Taksim and Kadıköy are free to attend and don’t require any booking.
2. What’s the best way to get around Istanbul on New Year’s Eve?
Public transportation, including the metro and trams, is a good option to get around Istanbul on New Year’s Eve, but expect crowds. Taxis are available but you may encounter heavy traffic and higher fares. You can also use ride-sharing apps such as BiTaksi or Uber.
3. Where can I avoid the crowds in Istanbul on New Year’s Eve?
Kadıköy, on the Asian side, provides a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Taksim. Alternatively, enjoy a quieter celebration at a local meyhane.
4. Are any parts of Istanbul closed on New Year’s Eve?
Most attractions are open during the day, but some may close earlier than usual. Check specific venue listings for their hours of operation.
5. What’s the best place to watch the fireworks in Istanbul on New Year’s Eve?
Ortaköy, Bebek, rooftop restaurants, and Bosphorus cruises offer prime viewing spots for the fireworks display.
6. What do the Turkish eat on New Year’s Eve?
Turks traditionally enjoy turkey or chicken on New Year’s Eve, served with sides like potatoes and vegetables. Seasoned with local herbs and spices, this festive meal is a flavorful example of what to eat in Istanbul during the holiday season.