Istanbul is a city that truly comes alive after dark. With its unique blend of East and West, ancient traditions and modern flair, the city offers countless ways to enjoy a drink and meet people. Whether you’re looking for a lively pub crawl that immerses you in the city’s vibrant nightlife, or a more intimate experience like a cocktail workshop at a local home bar, there’s something for all. We particularly like the Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl for its 11 years of experience, friendly atmosphere, and ability to connect travelers from all over the world. It’s a fantastic way to dance the night away with new friends while experiencing the best bars Istanbul has to offer.
For travelers who prefer a shorter, more relaxed evening, the Explore Istanbul Night Life: Pub Crawl offers a well-balanced, 6-hour tour visiting four different venues. If you’re interested in learning how to craft authentic Turkish cocktails, the Istanbul: Turkish Cocktail Workshop with Locals at Home Bar provides a fun, hands-on experience in a local’s home. Lastly, those on the Asian side can consider the Kadıköy Pub Crawl, which has 13 years of expertise and VIP access at all venues. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience
This well-established pub crawl has been running for 11 years and has hosted over 25,000 travelers. What makes this tour stand out is the focus on creating genuine connections through fun ice-breaking games and drinking challenges, along with top local nightlife spots. Meeting at RocknRolla Bar at 9:30 pm, the tour takes you through 4-5 bars and finishes at a lively dance club by around 4 am, ensuring a full night of fun.
The tour guides, who speak more than 20 languages, are experts at helping you mingle and experience Istanbul like a local. The itinerary starts with welcome shots and ice-breaking activities, then transitions to relaxed drinking and dancing. Guests often remark on how the guides make everyone feel comfortable — even shy travelers find their rhythm quickly. The tour includes free drinks at each venue, and the environment is friendly and social. For a night that mixes bar-hopping with a lively party atmosphere, this tour offers excellent value at $27.99 per person for about 7 hours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a fun, social night with an emphasis on meeting people and experiencing Istanbul’s nightlife in a lively, organized setting.
2. Explore Istanbul Night Life: Pub Crawl
This guided pub crawl is perfect for travelers seeking a straightforward, relaxed introduction to Istanbul’s nightlife. At just $23 per person, it delivers a solid six-hour experience, visiting four different bars and clubs. The tour emphasizes a social, informal vibe with welcome shots at each venue, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers.
The group is small and intimate, which means the guide can focus on ensuring everyone has a good time. As you hop from venue to venue, you get a taste of Istanbul’s diverse nightlife scene, with plenty of opportunities to dance, chat, and enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere. While less elaborate than some other options, it’s a reliable choice for those looking to cover more ground without the bells and whistles. The reviews are glowing, with guests appreciating the relaxed pace and friendly hosts, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a concise, affordable night out that balances fun with socializing in a relaxed environment.
3. Istanbul: Turkish Cocktail Workshop with Locals at Home Bar
If you’re interested in learning about Turkish flavors and cocktail culture, this hands-on workshop is a highlight. Over about 3 hours, you’ll learn how to craft 3-4 traditional Turkish cocktails, guided by a local expert in a cozy home bar setting. The experience is designed to deepen your connection with local people, with opportunities to chat and share stories while enjoying your creations on a terrace with snacks and scenic views.
The workshop is ideal for those who want to step beyond typical bar-hopping and focus on cultural exchange through mixology. It’s also a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or anyone curious about Turkish ingredients and techniques. The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor create a welcoming atmosphere, and guests often leave with new skills and a greater appreciation of Turkish hospitality. The focus on authentic flavors and local insights makes this experience stand out, especially at a reasonable price for 3 hours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cocktail lovers and cultural explorers who want a more intimate, educational evening.
4. Istanbul Kadıköy Pub Crawl: Adults-Only Nightlife Adventure
This pub crawl on the Asian side offers a different perspective, with 13 years of experience delivering an energetic, VIP-focused experience. The tour lasts about 5 hours, with VIP entry at all venues — no lines, no hassle. It’s geared toward adults looking for a seamless night out, combining free welcome drinks with access to some of the trendiest venues on the Kadıköy waterfront.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on quality venues rather than quantity, offering an upscale vibe and the chance to experience Istanbul’s nightlife from the Asian side, which often feels less touristy. The experience is highly flexible, with guides focused on ensuring everyone has a memorable night. No reviews are provided, but the tour’s reputation and VIP perks make it appealing for those seeking a hassle-free, stylish night.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a streamlined, upscale experience with VIP access on Istanbul’s Asian side.
How to Choose Your Ideal Drinking Tour in Istanbul
When selecting the best drinking experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you love socializing and dancing until dawn, the Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl is an excellent value at $27.99. For a more relaxed, shorter evening, the Explore Istanbul Night Life Pub Crawl offers a straightforward, affordable option. If culture appeals to you, the Cocktail Workshop provides a unique, personal experience. And for those on the Asian side seeking VIP treatment, the Kadıköy Pub Crawl is the way to go.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the pub crawls that run on weekends, as they tend to fill up quickly. Consider your pace and what kind of night you want—whether a lively dance party or a cozy cocktail class—to find the perfect fit.
In summary, Istanbul offers a diverse array of drinking tours suited to different tastes and interests. For a lively, social night out with new friends, the Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl is hard to beat. If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, the Turkish Cocktail Workshop delivers authentic flavors and warm local hospitality. On the Asian side, the Kadıköy Pub Crawl combines VIP service with an upscale vibe. Whichever you choose, Istanbul’s nightlife is sure to be memorable — just remember to book early and pace yourself.