Istanbul's Sky-High Delights: 10 Rooftop Bars for Unforgettable Views

Istanbul is the city where the East meets the West with ancient domes harmonizing with modern skyscrapers, Istanbul invites you to savor its beauty from every corner. From Sultanahmet's cobblestone streets to the lively shores of the Bosphorus, each view tells a unique story. To truly capture the essence of this timeless metropolis, take to the skies. Ascend above the rooftops, past minarets reaching into the blue sky, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Istanbul's sky-high bars.

In this article, let's dive into the enchanting world of Istanbul's rooftop bars, where the city's charm unfolds in a mesmerizing blend of old and new. These elevated gems, situated on historic buildings or luxurious hotels, unveil a breathtaking panorama. The sun sets the Golden Horn flaming, the Galata Tower stands sentinel over the city, and the call to prayer blends with the clink of glasses and laughter. In these celestial retreats, the air buzzes with contagious energy—a mix of history, luxury, and carefree celebration.

Get ready to be captivated by uniquely Turkish cocktails, delightful bites, and DJ sets that set the night sky flaming. In this article, we reveal 10 of the city's most captivating rooftop bars, each offering a night carved in your memory. So, here's to unforgettable views, sky-high celebrations, and the enchanting magic of Istanbul, one sip at a time. Now, let's see how Istanbul Tourist Pass® adds to this enchanting experience.

Experience Istanbul with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® with great savings. This digital pass, carefully crafted by a professional tourist agency with over 30 years of expertise, opens the doors to a world of convenience and savings. With access to 100+ attractions and services, the pass ensures you skip the ticket lines, enjoy guided tours, and enjoy discounted options for the hop-on-hop-off bus tour, cruises, and various transportation alternatives. The Istanbul Tourist Pass® is your key to unlocking the full potential of this vibrant city, providing not just panoramic views from above but also a curated journey through its rich cultural tapestry. Cheers!

Rooftail Galata: Where Panoramic Views Meet Exquisite Vibes

Rooftail Galata, situated in Istanbul's Beyoğlu district, precisely in the Karaköy and Galata areas, stands out as a popular and distinctive destination. Positioned on the terrace of the Root Hotel, this independent establishment offers breathtaking views of both the historical peninsula and Galata, accompanied by a modern and stylish design. Renowned for their expertise in cocktail consultancy and workshops, the creators, also behind Jigger Istanbul, have skillfully crafted unique signature cocktails.

Complementing the beverage experience, Rooftail Galata provides a selection of snacks perfectly paired with their distinctive drinks. The venue enhances the overall ambiance by featuring a curated playlist of good and cool music, creating an ideal setting for enjoying your cocktail or socializing with friends. For those interested in cocktail-making events, tastings, or staying updated on DJ events and workshops, following Rooftail Galata's Instagram account is recommended for the latest information on upcoming activities and events.

Open every day between 3 PM and 1.30 AM

Address: Necatibey Cd. No:95, Hacımimi, 34425 Beyoğlu İstanbul

16 Roof: A Culinary and Cocktail Journey Above the City Lights

Experience the extraordinary at 16ROOF, nestled in Swissôtel The Bosphorus, where impeccable service and delectable cuisine await. Marvel at the panoramic views of the Bosphorus while indulging in a diverse range of global flavors and vibing to your favorite tunes spun by our DJ. Elevate your Istanbul days at this multi-level rooftop, offering a culinary journey high above the city's iconic strait. Whether you're savoring flavorful dishes, cheering with refreshing drinks, or exploring the best shisha flavors in town, 16ROOF provides a vibrant atmosphere for memorable moments.

The terrace boasts stylish dining tables leading up to a top-level lounge with standing tables and a chic central bar. From sushi to pasta and an extensive grill selection, paired with an impressive wine menu and crafted signature cocktails, 16ROOF ensures a delightful gastronomic experience. Embrace the trendy and lively ambiance, perfect for lounge cocktails and enjoyable dinners throughout the week, with weekends coming alive with live music and DJ sessions. Secure your spot early or make a reservation to revel in the summer vibes happening at this rooftop haven.

Service Period: Seasonal (May to October)

Dinner Everyday: 7.00 PM - 11.00 PM (last order 10.45 pm)

Bar Everyday: 5.00 PM - 02.00 AM

Address: Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul, Visnezade Mah Acisu Sok NO 19 Macka 34357 Besiktas Istanbul

City Lights Bar: Soak in Elegance at Istanbul's Elevated Oasis

Situated on the N floor of InterContinental Istanbul, City Lights Restaurant & Bar offers a stunning panoramic view of the Bosphorus, showcasing iconic landmarks like Galata Tower, Topkapı Palace, Maiden Tower, and the Bosphorus Bridge. The restaurant, backed by the culinary expertise of the hotel's gastronomy professionals, presents a diverse menu with starters such as grouper Carpaccio and sautéed sea scallops, alongside main courses featuring organic rustic chicken, lobster’s shoulder, and more.

While the restaurant caters to a more upscale crowd, as evident in its refined location and decor, the dessert menu surprisingly remains budget-friendly. Indulge in exclusive ice cream flavors like refreshing basil with fig crème brûlée or the recommended rakı-melon sorbet for a delightful twist. City Lights ensures a memorable dining experience for those seeking both extraordinary views and culinary delights, making it a perfect spot to savor the beauty of Istanbul.

Open Daily 2.00 PM -02.00 AM

Foodservice between 4.00 PM - 1.00 AM

Address: InterContinental Istanbul Hotel, Asker Ocağı Cad. No:1 Taksim 34435 İstanbul

Klein Garten: Rooftop Retreat with a Touch of Nature's Bliss

Located in the heart of Beyoğlu, the cultural epicenter of Istanbul, Klein Garten fulfills the dream of a sky garden, gracing the city's nights with a mesmerizing view of the Golden Horn. Positioned as a breath of fresh air amidst Istanbul's challenging conditions, Klein Garten merges dance and entertainment with the sky, focusing on delivering good-quality music. With a total capacity of 1,000 people, this hotspot becomes the address for limitless fun, offering a delightful combination of delicious cuisine and cocktails.

Embracing an Ethno-house music concept, Klein Garten hosts performances by renowned artists, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. Open every day except Mondays, the venue starts welcoming guests at 18:00, with the restaurant section serving until 20:00. Reminding you to enjoy your meals against the backdrop of a spectacular sunset and the panoramic views of the Golden Horn, Klein Garten becomes a haven for those seeking a memorable experience in Istanbul.

Open every day except Mondays between 6:00 PM - 01:00 AM

Address: Asmalımescit Mah, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:67 Kat:6, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

The Bank Roof Bar: History, Glamour, and Skyline Splendor

Situated in Karaköy, a historic and beloved area of Istanbul, The Bank Roof Bar promises an unforgettable experience on the rooftop of The Bank Hotel. This chic and spacious roof bar hovers above Karaköy, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque.