Istanbul Nightlife
French poet Alphonse de Lamartine once observed: "If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul."
Istanbul has retained its distinctive character and it is a fact that is as notable in the nightlife as it is in the old markets. There is something for absolutely everyone in Istanbul, but one of the city's big strengths is its passion for music.
With this in mind, a trip to 2010's European capital of culture should definitely involve a good night out at Babylon. This live music club presents a huge range of music from jazz and electronica to world music. It describes itself as the place "where Istanbul meets good music" and it also boasts a role as "the initiator and motivator to urban culture".
One of the best areas for nightlife in this vibrant city is Istiklal Caddesi, at the heart of Beyoglu. Beyoglu is in fact a hugely popular area for the younger generations during the daytime due to its fashionable stores and cafes, but at night it really comes to life. Just off Istiklal Caddesi you will find a side-street called Imam Adnan Sokak and there are numerous quality bars here including the popular Kaktus.
No visitor to Istanbul should leave without sampling the delights of Nu Pera, a collection of renovated buildings in the neighbourhood of Pera. Situated next to the Pera Palace Hotel, Nu Pera is on several floors and offers one of the trendiest and most exciting drinking experiences in the city. You will probably need to fill your wallet before waltzing in, but it is one of the area's most fashionable spots and the fairly pricey drinks will not spoil your night.
It also boasts sensational rooftop views in the form of the Nu Teras restaurant, where diners can enjoy a good meal and some fine wine whilst overlooking the Golden Horn.
Reina and Laila, two of the best clubs in Istanbul, are both found in Ortakoy, and those fancying a few drinks and a night on the dance floor should definitely pay a visit to both.
But you will also make sure you find time to visit Galata Tower, which was built in 1348 and offers some of the most spectacular views in Istanbul. The top floors of the tower have been turned into a restaurant and nightclub and a night here could also see you honing your belly-dancing skills.
A great night can be had at Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage) too, on Istiklal Caddesi at Galatasaray Square. Boasting a host of restaurants, this is a great place to eat and drink with friends whilst soaking up the atmosphere and watching the world go by, and you will be able to find drinks here at a reasonable price.
Beer lovers may find they feel more at home at the Taps Brewery, where they can sample some fine ales and even wander round the museum, if a bit of beer history is the order of the day.
Clubs in Istanbul will often stay open until around 4am, so there are no worries about being turfed out before you've reached your dancing peak. Bars, meanwhile, will often stay open until around 1am or even 2am and so you'll also find you can sit and relax with friends in a slightly less manic but nonetheless sociable environment if this is your thing.
Istanbul is a truly dynamic city with a nightlife of intrigue and enchantment that will entertain you for as long as your visit lasts.
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Nightlife
