Christmas in Istanbul - All You Need to Know for a Magical Stay
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Christmas, Christmas, Christmas! It’s fair to say that this is my favourite holiday of the year.
I am that person who puts up a Christmas tree at the start of November because I want to enjoy it for two whole months.
The kind of weirdo who buys more baubles for their tree even though said tree is still the same size as last year and has too many baubles already. I even plan what I want to have for Christmas dinner early. And when I say early, I mean…in September.
I also love travelling to Christmassy destinations. Whether it’s sipping a steaming hot chocolate with Baileys under the glow of fairy lights at a Christmas market, wandering around stalls selling baked goods, chutneys, cheeses and delicious mulled wine or admiring architecture dusted in snow, a winter escape is a great way to enjoy the Christmas season.
Most people think of Paris, Prague, Budapest, Berlin or even New York when it comes to Christmas holidays. But what about Istanbul?
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As Turkey has a majority Muslim population, it makes sense that Istanbul might not be the first place that comes to your mind for a Christmas vacation.
However, Istanbul is very diverse and multicultural and during Christmas the whole city sparkles with festive vibes. We’ve celebrated Christmas here for the last four years and have enjoyed it every single time!
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Christmas in Istanbul - including where to find the best Christmas illuminations, the top Christmas markets in Istanbul to visit, church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, plus unique Turkish Christmas traditions.
You never know, Istanbul at Christmas might just surprise you!
🎄 Does Turkey Celebrate Christmas?
Decorations in Galata in December
One of the most common questions is “do Turkish people celebrate Christmas?”. And the answer is…a little complicated.
As Turkey is a predominantly Islamic country, Christmas isn’t widely celebrated amongst Turkish people. However, things are a little different in Istanbul.
Istanbul itself is home to several small Turkish Christian communities who are from various denominations and backgrounds including Catholic, Georgian, Bulgarian, Syriac and Armenian. The head of the Greek Orthodox Church (which has around 220 million members) is also based in Istanbul.
All of these groups celebrate Christmas, which is why you can find some church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Istanbul. Some Orthodox Christians hold Christmas celebrations on the 6th or 7th of January, so it’s common to see decorations in these churches far into the New Year.
You can also often find Christmas celebrations in Mardin, Edirne and Diyarbakır provinces in Turkey.
🎅🏻 Santa Claus was Turkish
Meanwhile, St Nicholas aka Santa Claus was actually from Turkey!
St Nicholas was born in Patara in Türkiye and became the bishop of Myra (now called Demre in modern Turkey) in the 4th century.
He was renowned for giving gifts and performing all sorts of miracles and pilgrims from all over the world still flock to the St Nicholas Church in Demre where he is buried.
Santa Clauses in one of Istanbul’s most famous sweetshops, Şekerci Cafer Erol.
🎆 In Türkiye, ‘Christmas’ decorations and customs are actually for New Year
Turks call St Nicholas ‘Noel Baba’ and while he’s traditionally associated with Christmas in Christian countries, in Turkey he’s actually connected with New Year celebrations.
Just like Santa Claus, Noel Baba is believed to bring gifts to children and adults at New Year which he leaves under a decorated pine tree which is known as a ‘yılbaşı ağacı’ or a New Year Tree.
Other Turkish New Year’s Eve holiday customs are also broadly similar to Christmas celebrations with some families cooking a roast dinner, exchanging gifts, roasting chestnuts and playing board games.
So in a (chest) nutshell: most people don’t celebrate Christmas in Turkey but what they do celebrate is New Year. And their New Year celebrations happen to look a whole lot like Christmas.
So shops selling decorations, wrapping paper and Christmas trees in Turkey are in fact gearing up for December 31st and not December 25th!
⛄ Why You Should Spend Christmas in Istanbul
Decorations at a coffee shop on Istanbul’s Asian side.
1) Istanbul in December is much less crowded.
After living here for four years, we’d recommend visiting Istanbul in winter because it’s much quieter than the peak tourist seasons of late spring and summer.
In December, you won’t find the usual crazy queues for historic attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and Blue Mosque, and can enjoy sightseeing at a leisurely pace.
2) Istanbul is cheaper than other typical Christmas destinations like Paris or Berlin.
Budget travellers listen up: whilst the prices for accommodation in Istanbul do increase around Christmas and New Year, it is still generally much cheaper than more popular destinations around Europe.
Additionally, if you book early, you can often find cheap flights to Istanbul. In winter, many companies also offer discounts on tours and activities.
Finally, food, drinks and shopping are all very affordable in Istanbul - especially if you have dollars, euros or pounds to spend. You’ll quickly see that your money stretches a long way!
3) The atmosphere in Istanbul is surprisingly festive and Christmassy.
You might not hear George Michael and Mariah Carey on repeat (unless you visit the Ministry of Coffee in Osmanbey) but Christmas in Istanbul still sure feels like Christmas!
Our favourite thing is that Christmas lights are everywhere: some of the best festive lights can be found all along Istiklal Street and Taksim, in trendy Nişantaşı and Kadıköy on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Istanbul’s shopping malls will also be decorated to the hilt and there will be Christmas trees and gorgeous decorations in cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels.
Istanbul’s churches are particularly stunning at this time of year - with pretty lights, huge wreaths, Christmas trees and nativity scenes.
4) Istanbul is a multicultural and cosmopolitan city where locals and foreigners celebrate Christmas.
As we mentioned earlier, Istanbul has a Christian community and there are numerous churches dotted around the city.
You can find Christmas services at churches in Istanbul in Turkish, English and other languages on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. We’ve attended a few different carol services and it really gets us in the festive mood!
5) The weather in Istanbul in December is mild.
Istanbul Christmas weather isn’t too chilly but still feels Christmassy enough! The average daytime temperature during December in Istanbul is between 7°C-11°C/45°F-52°F with some rain and cold winds.
Whilst that sounds a little gloomy, it means you can explore the city’s many historic sites, markets and festivals comfortably without worrying about frozen fingers and toes.
If you’ve been asking “Does it snow in Istanbul in December?’ and have your fingers crossed for a white Christmas while you’re here, sadly, your chances are pretty slim. You’re much more likely to see snow in January.
6) Visit Istanbul at Christmas and stay for New Year!
New Year celebrations in Istanbul are incredible! Turkish people take New Year seriously - you’ll find free concerts, epic street parties, firework displays, boat parties, swanky galas at Istanbul’s top hotels and special NYE nights at bars and clubs all around the city.
As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to visit Istanbul for Christmas!
🎁 What Happens on Christmas Day in Istanbul?
Christmas Day isn’t a holiday in Turkey so shops, restaurants, cafes, museums and other tourist sites are all open as normal. So if you want to visit the Grand Bazaar or the Galata Tower on Christmas Day, go for it!
New Year’s Day is a public holiday but the whole city doesn’t shut down. Tourist attractions will be closed but many restaurants and cafes will be open and rammed with people. If you want to enjoy a New Year’s lunch or dinner, make a reservation well in advance.
🎉 Best Things to Do During Christmas in Istanbul, Türkiye
1) Enjoy Amazing Istanbul Christmas Markets
Christmas markets in Istanbul have become increasingly popular over the years and whilst they aren’t on the same scale as the ones you find in France or Germany, they are certainly very festive! Here are some of our favourite ones:
Christmas Market Istanbul
Christmas Market Istanbul 2023.
First beginning in 2019, this Istanbul Christmas Market combines festive food, gifts and performances by famous Turkish singers for an unforgettable experience.
This Christmas market was formerly known as the ‘Four Seasons Istanbul Christmas Market’ as it was held in this 5-star Istanbul hotel.
However, in 2023 it will be held at Six Senses Koctas Mansions in Sariyer from 8th-25th December. The market features stalls selling Christmas-style food such as gingerbread men, candy floss, mulled wine, German bratwurst and French pastries.
There are also pop-up stalls selling last-minute gifts, from luxury brands such as Jo Malone to pretty souvenirs, candles, home furnishings, jewellery and beautiful handmade goods.
But it’s not all just about shopping and food. This Christmas market features a merry-go-round perfect for families with young children; a Ferris wheel from which you can have a jaw-dropping view of the Bosphorus Strait; a small ice skating rink and DIY workshops where you can have a go at making your own Christmas decorations!
If you love music, then you’ll enjoy Christmas Market Istanbul as it also features various concerts. We saw choir groups singing Christmas carols and a swing band in the early evening.
There is also a performance from a famous Turkish musician each evening (the price for this is included in your ticket). You can choose from classical music performances, to pop, rock, Latin, rap and more. We went to see Turkish pop star Zeynep Bastik and she was amazing!
Tickets for the Christmas market are sold for weekday sessions (3.00pm-11.00pm) or weekend sessions (either 11.00am-5.00pm or 6.00pm-11.00pm).
Zeynep Bastik performing at Christmas Market Istanbul in 2023.
We bought our tickets online via Passo - you will need to sign up for an account first. The ticket prices vary depending on when you book and which artist is playing. There are some early-bird tickets - most of these are usually sold out by early November. This year prices vary between 520TL-800TL.
This is our favourite Christmas market in Istanbul and we always make sure we book our tickets early. It’s one of the most festive and fun Christmas markets Istanbul has to offer!
💡 Top Tip:
Most of the food and beverage stalls at Christmas Market Istanbul do not take payment by cash or card. Payment has to be done through the Well Works Event Pay Pro app. You need to upload money to the app wallet and to pay, just show the QR code on the app to the vendor. We’d recommend downloading this app beforehand.
This market is expensive - your ticket price only includes your entrance fee and the concerts. Food, drinks and experiences (like a ride on the Ferris wheel and ice skating) all have an additional cost.
Wonder Village Istanbul
Described as the biggest winter market in town, Wonder Village Istanbul runs from 1st-30th December and has a very similar range of activities to Christmas Market Istanbul.
Located in KüçükÇiftlik Park, a huge open-air venue, this market features an ice skating rink and numerous stalls selling hot food, mulled wine, beauty products, and Christmassy souvenirs.
There are also gorgeous decorations, including stunning pine trees decked out for New Year and beautiful festive light displays.
Wonder Village Istanbul also offers a huge variety of workshops. Last year, there were sessions on making cheese, fondue, ceramics, candles, incense, Christmas decorations and even 3D embroidery! There was also a coffee-scented candle-making workshop with Tchibo.
If you’re visiting Istanbul Wonder Village with your kids, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many kid-friendly activities. As well as magical fairground rides, children can get involved in slime, ceramic Christmas ornaments and cup painting workshops too!
There are also concerts by famous Turkish singers from Friday - Sunday - this year’s lineup covers everything from indie rock and dreamy synth-pop to rap and hip-hop.
Like the market above, we had to purchase our tickets online by signing up for an account with Biletix. The cheapest tickets start at 120TL and sell out by early November. Weekend tickets (Friday-Sunday) are generally more expensive as they will include a concert.
You can buy tickets for weekday sessions (Tuesday-Thursday, starting at 4.00pm) or weekend sessions (Friday-Sunday). For the latter, you have a choice of a morning session (starting at 12.00pm until around 5.30pm) or an evening session (starting at 6.30pm until around 11.00pm).
As markets like this are becoming one of the most popular activities to do in Istanbul during Christmas, we’d recommend booking your tickets early to get the best prices.
IWI Annual Winter Bazaar
If you’re on a budget then you’ll be glad to know there are some cheaper Christmas markets in Istanbul.
The International Women of Istanbul holds a Christmas bazaar every year and it costs just 50TL per person to enter. We have been to this bazaar a few years in a row and although it is small, it has a lovely festive atmosphere.
A stall selling Christmas themed ceramics at the IWI Christmas Bazaar 2023.
The IWI Christmas Festival Istanbul has many different vendors selling local and international food (we tried some yummy homemade Indian and Thai food) plus stalls selling handmade Christmas decorations and trinkets, jewellery, Christmas food and ceramics.
There is also a raffle, dance performances, games and magic shows for children plus an appearance from Santa Claus!
The IWI Istanbul Christmas Market 2023 will be on December 10th at the Dedemen Istanbul Hotel in Gayrettepe from 11.00am-5.00pm.
Christmas markets in Turkey come in all shapes in sizes!
Smaller markets around shopping malls in Istanbul
If you’re doing some Christmas shopping, you’ll find that Istanbul’s shopping centres have their own little Christmas markets.
We stumbled upon a few cute market stalls around the swanky Kanyon Mall, Özdilek Park Shopping Mall and the Zorlu Centre. Özdilek Park shopping centre also had some cool Christmas decorations outside.
2) Admire Istanbul’s Lovely Christmas Decorations
One of our favourite Christmas activities in Istanbul is simply wandering around the city during the evening to look at the Christmas lights.
There are plenty of Christmas decorations in Istanbul, especially in the most popular tourist areas. Here are our favourite places.
Istiklal Street
Istanbul’s most famous shopping street is always decked out in lights for the festive season. You’ll not only see them suspended over the pedestrianised avenue from Taksim Square to Tünel Square but the shops in the area will have decorations too.
There is also usually a Christmas tree near the Tünel historic railway station.
St Anthony's Church, Istiklal Street
This is the largest Catholic Church in the city and features some of the best Christmas decorations Istanbul has to offer. In late November, you will find a huge beautifully decorated Christmas tree outside the church and a charming nativity scene.
Inside the church are more elaborately festooned Christmas trees, huge wreaths mounted on the church’s columns plus flowers and candles everywhere.
Taksim Square
Istanbul’s main square always has some pretty light displays that are for New Year celebrations but look incredibly Christmassy.
During Christmas in Turkey 2022 the trees around Taksim were wrapped in lights and there were star-shaped light installations scattered around the square. There was also a New Year tree made solely out of lights.
Nişantaşı
If you’re searching for the trendiest Christmas tree in Istanbul or uber-cool decorations, then head to the upmarket area of Nişantaşı.
Lamps, trees and swanky storefronts will be decorated with baubles, tinsel and pine needles, fairy lights and LED light displays. The streets are also lined with metal ‘trees’ covered in fairy lights for the New Year.
You’ll also usually see a huge lavishly decorated pine tree in the centre of Nişantaşı.
Kadıköy
The decorations in Kadıköy are some of our favourites! Şekerci Cafer Erol sweet shop has stunning decorations and lights from mid-November onwards.
The whole store becomes Christmas/New Year themed, with candy canes and fake snow, toy soldiers, a huge light-up star and a Ferris wheel decorating the outside of the building.
Inside you will find Christmas-themed sweets, teddy bears, reindeer, Santa mugs, chocolate boxes and all sorts of other goodies.
The offices of the co-working space Workinton also go big for Christmas by blinging up the outside of their building with fairy lights. In the past, this included huge LED Santas, presents and reindeer!
Other areas like Beşiktaş have Christmas/New Year decorations too. We’d encourage you to wander around and soak up the festive vibes.
3) Discover Christmas Church Services in English in Istanbul
If you’re looking for church services in English in Istanbul during Christmas, we’ve got you! (We’ve also highlighted which churches offer services in other languages).
Istanbul has several churches you can visit over Christmas - all of the following are holding services in English during the festive season.
Sent Antuan Kilisesi / Church of St Anthony of Padua
Located right in the heart of Istanbul’s famous shopping street, Istiklal Caddesi, Sent Antuan Kilisesi aka the Church of St Anthony of Padua is the largest Catholic church in the city. The church holds a Christmas Eve service and a mass in English on Christmas Day.
On Christmas Eve, there are Christmas carols at 8.00pm followed by a Christmas service at 9.00pm. On Christmas Day, the church offers mass in various languages - you’ll find the mass held in English at 10.00 am. (Masses in other languages are as follows: 11.30am - Polish, 11.30am - Italian, 6.00pm, Turkish).
We attended the Christmas Eve service last year and were surprised to find that the church was heaving with people. It was so packed that we ended up standing at the back. The crowd actually reached all the way to the doors of the church.
Some people had seats and were staying for the service and carols, whilst others were just popping in because they’d heard the singing!
Saint Esprit Katedrali / St Esprit Cathedral
The second largest Catholic church in Istanbul is the beautiful St Esprit Cathedral in a courtyard just off bustling Cumhuriyet Avenue in Şişli. It’s easy to miss this church - we walked past a few times before we spotted it!
This Baroque-style church is quite famous and has been visited by four popes! It’s also beautiful inside - we loved the embellished gold ceilings and chandeliers.
St Esprit Cathedral holds a Christmas carol concert at 11.15pm on Christmas Eve followed by a multilingual midnight mass.
On Christmas Day they hold a mass in English at 10.00am followed by a mass in French at 11.30am.
Crimean Memorial Church
A short walk from Galata Tower is the neo-Gothic style Crimean Memorial Church. Set in a lovely walled garden with a parsonage, this Anglican church holds regular organ recitals and a weekly Sunday service at 10.00 am.
This year the church will hold a Christmas carol service on Christmas Eve at 11.00am followed by vigil mass at 8.00pm. On Christmas Day there will be a mass at 11.00am.
4) Enjoy a Traditional Christmas Meal
If you’re hankering after a traditional Christmas dinner in Istanbul then good news, it’s still possible!
During December, it’s most common to find 5-star and 4-star hotels in Istanbul offering set Christmas meals.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
If you’re looking for the best Christmas dinner Istanbul has to offer, then the Four Seasons Hotel at the Bosphorus has exactly what you need.
On Christmas Eve the Four Seasons offers a glamorous Christmas brunch from 12.30pm-3.30pm at the AQUA Restaurant.
This buffet-style festival menu features tons of different dishes from live barbeque and sushi stations to platters of cheese, cold cuts and various desserts. There are also vegetarian options for people like me! The Christmas brunch costs 4350TL per person and bookings are by reservation only.
The price includes a welcome glass of prosecco and a chance to taste your favourite wines with tips and guidance from the hotel’s gifted team of sommeliers.
There will also be entertainment courtesy of the Uninvited Jazz Band, who will be playing their songs throughout the brunch while you’re having fun and feasting to your heart’s content!
The Four Seasons also offers two options for Christmas dinner: on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day from 7.00pm - 11.00pm at the AQUA restaurant.
Featuring a gourmet set menu meticulously prepared with the finest ingredients by the hotel’s Executive Chef Görkem Özkan and his team, this dinner is described as a “magical evening soiree” and promises to be a night to remember.
The Christmas dinner costs 5900TL per person and doesn’t include drinks. Like the Christmas brunch, bookings are by reservation only.
The menu for the Christmas dinner is very traditional: it includes a stuffed Christmas turkey with side dishes such as brussel sprouts, honey-roasted carrots and even cranberry sauce! You can see the full Four Seasons Christmas dinner menu here.
To make a reservation for either Christmas brunch or dinner, contact the Four Seasons on +90 (212) 381 40 00 or email AQUA restaurant at: aqua.bosphorus@fourseasons.com. They also have online reservations through their website.
Swissotel The Bosphorus
If you want somewhere with super Christmassy vibes and serving festive meals then look no further than the Swissotel. Two of the hotel’s restaurants - Chalet and Sabrosa - offer a traditional Christmas brunch and dinner.
Chalet restaurant brings the atmosphere of the Swiss Alps to Istanbul. You can either dine in a stunning 120-year-old alpine chalet in front of a roaring fire or get cosy in one of the glass-walled ‘igloos’ decorated with snowflakes.
The magical atmosphere at Chalet is perfectly matched by their Christmas Eve dinner menu which features a traditional cheese fondue and a choice of roast turkey with all the trimmings, fondue beef bourguinonne or Geschnetzeltes Züricher Art (sliced beef in creamy mushroom sauce served with rosti potatoes).
The ‘Mont Blanc’ dessert of chestnut, meringue and almond sable with salted caramel sounds to die for!
Chalet’s Christmas Eve dinner has two seatings: 5.00pm-8.30pm and 9.00pm till late. The menu costs 2950TL per person.
Alternatively, you can dine in the lovely family-friendly Sabrosa restaurant which always has fantastic Christmas decorations and tasty traditional Christmas treats.
Sabrosa offers an open buffet Christmas Eve dinner for 1950TL per person and a delicious traditional Christmas brunch on Christmas Day for 2950TL per person.
You can check out the Chalet and Sabrosa Christmas and New Year menus here.
To make a reservation at either Chalet or Sabrosa contact +90 543 326 8111 or email the Swissotel at: restaurantreservation.istanbul@swissotel.com. Or book a table through their website.
Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus
Another hotel offering a sumptuous traditional dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day is the Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus.
On Christmas Eve, you can enjoy dinner from 7.00pm-11.00pm at the hotel’s very fancy Manzara restaurant.
The set dinner menu features rich dishes like pumpkin soup with scallops, wild mushroom and spinach stuffed turkey roulade and a traditional apple strudel served with cinnamon ice cream. Dishes and flavours befitting of the festive season!
Manazara’s Christmas dinner costs 1950TL per person (not including beverages).
Conrad also offers a Christmas Day lunch from 12.30pm-3.00pm at Manzara restaurant. Again this is a set menu with plenty of festive flavours including chestnut soup with cranberry and parmesan cream, confit turkey and chocolate fondant. Yums!
The Christmas Day lunch at Manzara costs 2350 TL per person, without beverages.
You can see the full menus for Conrad’s Christmas and New Year meals here.
To make a reservation for lunch or dinner contact +90 537 973 80 14 or email the Conrad at: isthc.restaurants@conradhotels.com. Online reservations are available through their website.
George's Hotel
This lovely boutique hotel just steps away from the Galata Tower has a gorgeous rooftop restaurant and offers a festive French-style menu on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
This year the menu at George’s Hotel includes entrees of prosecco, amuse bouche and smoked salmon blinis and starters of roast pumpkin and ginger soup, chicken liver pate with cornichon and red onion chutney and duck confit with plum sauce and curly endive.
Main courses include baked village cockerel stuffed with chestnuts and saffron rice or the classic French fish dish of sole meuniere with roasted baby potatoes.
And if you still have room for dessert, you can enjoy a traditional Yule Log and plenty of complimentary coffee, tea and chocolate Turkish delight.
The Christmas menu at the George’s Hotel costs 2950TL per person and is available on the 24th and 25th of December for lunch and dinner. You can view the full menu here.
To make a reservation contact +90 212 244 2423 or email the restaurant at George’s Hotel at: restaurant@georges.com. The George’s also offers online restaurant reservations through their website.
5) Turkish Christmas Food
Whilst there aren’t special Turkish dishes that are just made for Christmas, some traditional Turkish street food and drinks accidentally have a Christmassy vibe!
This is also a good option if having a proper Christmas dinner in Istanbul is a little too expensive - these festive food treats won’t break the bank!
In our article on Visiting Istanbul in Winter we talk about some of the delicious winter treats which include:
Roasted chestnuts - sold from street carts in every neighbourhood. It’s the perfect snack on a chilly day.
Salep - a hot, milky drink made from the root of an orchid that is mixed with sugar and topped with cinnamon. It’s extremely filling (so we wouldn’t recommend it after a huge meal) and designed to warm you up from the inside.
Boza - another typical Turkish winter drink made from fermented grains. Unlike salep it is served cold, topped with cinnamon and roasted chickpeas. It may sound strange but this filling drink is super tasty and is supposed to be very good for you.
You’ll also find that plenty of restaurants and bars serve spiced mulled wine all through winter. Mulled wine is one of my favourite Christmas treats!
🔥 Hot tip:
If you’re looking for activities in Turkey Istanbul that really get you under the skin of the city, try an Istanbul Food Tour. Our favourite tours are this Taste of Two Continents Food Tour of Istanbul and this Istanbul Guided Food and Culture Tour.
We’ve also written a detailed guide to The Best Food Tours in Istanbul so you can choose one that fits with your itinerary.
6) Do a Spot of Christmas Shopping
One of the most popular activities to do in Istanbul Turkey is…shopping!
Shopping is one of our recommendations for things to do in Istanbul in December because so many of the shops offer winter sales. If you haven’t bought your Christmas presents yet, this is the place to do it!
Christmas shopping in Istanbul is great because all the shops and malls are open and operate as usual (which in Istanbul means they open late). The shopping malls usually have festive decorations and some even have their own mini Christmas markets which we have enjoyed wandering around.
7) Spend New Year in Istanbul
If you’re looking to extend your adventures in Istanbul then consider staying for New Year.
From amazing street parties and stunning fireworks to special New Year’s Eve cruises along the Bosphorus, you’ll find plenty to do to celebrate and see in the New Year in style!
Celebrate With Turkish New Year Customs and Traditions
As we’ve mentioned, much of what we view as being Christmas traditions in Turkey are actually related to the New Year.
If you’re keen to celebrate the New Year in a traditional Turkish way, join a local family and celebrate with them. Here’s what to expect:
Turkish families will decorate their houses with pine trees and Christmas-style decorations in the run-up to the 31st of December.
One of the unique decorations you’ll find in homes in Istanbul is kokina. Kokina looks a little bit like holly but it is actually two plants mixed together! The red berries from one plant are meticulously tied by hand to the prickly leaves from another, making beautiful Christmas/New Year decorations.
A stall selling kokina in Kadıköy - one of the New Year/Christmas in Turkey traditions.
You’ll see this plant being sold everywhere during December - traditionally prepared by the Romany people of Istanbul, it was apparently first used by the Istanbul Greeks to decorate their homes during Christmas. These days you’ll find that all Istanbulites have kokina in their homes during the New Year.
On New Year’s Eve, many people will spend their time with their families - tucking into an indulgent roast dinner accompanied by rice cooked with chicken and chestnuts plus many meze dishes and multiple desserts.
It’s also traditional to eat cevizli sucuk (walnuts coated in grape or mulberry molasses) on NYE and to open a pomegranate which represents wealth and abundance.
Some people will actually smash a pomegranate in front of the door to their house - the more the seeds spread around, the richer you will be!
Once dinner is over, families will play games (the most common is bingo), exchange gifts and take part in Turkey’s famous NYE national lottery draw. Last year the jackpot was $10.7 million!
Turkey’s major cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir will put on huge firework displays at midnight. Smaller neighbourhoods will also have their own fireworks shows. People will come out to see the fireworks and some people give each other gifts at midnight too!
Another interesting Turkish custom is to wear red underwear on New Year’s Eve. Like many other cultures, red is considered to be the colour of luck, health and wealth. So across Istanbul you will see shops selling all sorts of red underwear, from regular old boxers to sexy lingerie!
Head to One of Istanbul’s Famous Street Parties
A popular activity to do in Istanbul during New Year is to attend a free street party. These happen in a lot of different neighbourhoods across Istanbul but the main parties are in Nişantaşı, Ortaköy and Taksim on the European side and Kadıköy on the Asian side of the city.
Many people choose to have dinner at home and then head out to join a street party at 11.00pm.
Here’s a bit more about the street parties we have been to:
Nişantaşı
Last year, during Christmas in Istanbul 2022, we decided to go to the NYE street party in Nişantaşı.
Nişantaşı’s street party had an amazing atmosphere - there were lots of families, couples and groups of friends having fun plus tons of beautiful decorations. Lots of people were selling shiny, red heart-shaped balloons!
There was also an incredible free concert featuring DJ sets and a performance by Gökçe, one of Turkey’s famous pop/rock stars. Her set was fantastic and we couldn’t believe that we got a chance to see her perform for free!
All the bars around Nişantaşı were open, so after Gökçe’s performance finished we headed to one where we enjoyed a delicious mulled wine. It was a lovely, fun way to see in the New Year.
Ortaköy
In 2021 we went to the street party in Ortaköy, near the water beside Ortaköy mosque.
Many people gather here to see the fireworks over the Bosphorus Bridge. If you want a good viewing spot, come down early because it gets extremely crowded. Also, make sure you don’t fall into the water as people tend to push to get a good view once the fireworks begin!
When we arrived, people were lighting sky lanterns and some local musicians were playing. Some people were sitting in cafes with views of the bridge and the water - a good option if you don’t want to stand around in the cold.
After the fireworks finished we headed to a cafe in the backstreets and warmed up with a hot chocolate. We’d advise waiting a while before trying to head home - we were caught up in a crush as people tried to walk back.
Taksim
Taksim holds the biggest street party in Istanbul - however, it can get a bit chaotic and unruly and we wouldn’t recommend it. If you decide to go please keep an eye on your belongings and try not to get separated from who you are with.
Take a Fancy New Year's Eve Cruise
A cruise on a luxury yacht down the Bosphorus Strait almost always makes it onto lists of the 10 best things to do in Istanbul. But on New Year’s Eve, these cruises are extra, extra special.
On a New Year’s Eve cruise, you will have front-row seats to the breathtaking fireworks display at midnight. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul’s stunning skyline and the sight of the city’s most famous landmarks lit up at night.
Most NYE cruises feature entertainment, from traditional Turkish folk and belly dancing to Latin flamenco dancers strutting their stuff!
You’ll also get a three-course meal and some packages include unlimited alcoholic and soft drinks plus hotel transfers.
We particularly like this New Year’s Eve Cruise with Dinner Option and this Istanbul New Year's Party Cruise With Gala Dinner Drinks. Both of these tours are some of the best activities Istanbul has to offer on NYE.
Party the Night Away at One of Istanbul’s Many Nightclubs and Bars
Another of the popular NYE activities in Istanbul Turkey is to welcome the New Year at a nightclub or bar.
Istanbul has hundreds of nightclubs and bars. Some of the most famous include:
Masquerade Club - known for hosting famous live acts, dancers and acrobats.
Sortie - features three bars, six restaurants, music by their resident DJ and stunning Bosphorus views.
Oligark - a fancy restaurant and club which also faces the Bosphorus.
Ruby - recommended in the 2024 Michelin Guide, this three-storey mansion has epic views of the Bosphorus, a famous restaurant and two nightclubs.
360 Istanbul - located in the penthouse of a historical apartment building on Istiklal Street, this restaurant-bar-club offers panoramic views of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus Strait and the Sea of Marmara. They are known for their live entertainment (dancers, famous singers and DJs).
Ulus 29 - situated on a hillside with a magnificent view of the Bosphorus Bridge and the Strait, this is a fancy fine-dining restaurant and bar/nightclub.
Babylon Bomonti - one of Istanbul’s most famous live music venues, Babylon also holds themed music nights and plays all genres of music from pop to jazz and world music.
If you’re looking for something even fancier and more upmarket, many of the 5-star and 4-star hotels in Istanbul hold New Year’s Eve galas.
Cirağan Palace Kempinski, Swissotel, Hilton Bosphorus, and the Four Seasons Istanbul At The Bosphorus all have New Year’s Eve events.
The galas usually include a three-course dinner (but not alcoholic drinks) and have live entertainment from a band or a DJ.
💡 Tip:
Istanbul has a huge population who like to party on NYE, so we’d recommend booking tickets in advance for popular clubs and hotels.
Spend New Year’s Eve in a Romantic Hotel in Istanbul
If wild partying on NYE isn’t your thing, then why not book a room for the night in one of Istanbul’s gorgeous hotels?
Many of the best hotels in Istanbul have Bosphorus views, which means you’re likely to see the fireworks at midnight. We’ve written a whole guide to the Best Istanbul Hotels With a View which covers the city’s most stunning hotels.
Our top picks for luxury New Year’s Eve hotels would be: The Stay Bosphorus, Cirağan Palace Kempinski, Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus , Four Seasons Istanbul At The Bosphorus and Seven Hills Hotel.
This is some of the best accommodation Istanbul has to offer, but there are plenty of others!
🏠 Where to Stay in Istanbul, Türkiye
We’ve stayed in many different areas around Istanbul and have now lived in this wonderful city for four years. So we’d recommend checking out our guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Istanbul - which covers 6 districts and 15 different neighbourhoods. It includes the pros and cons of staying in each area and the top attractions.
Below is a short list of some of our favourite recommendations for places to stay in the city - just pick the one that suits your budget.
Photo courtesy of NOA Apartments via Booking.com
OUR TOP PICK: NOA Apartments in Galata (⭐ 9.5)
Spacious, bright and beautifully furnished, these lovely apartments include a lounge area and a fully fitted kitchen with a washing machine and a tumble dryer. Guests also have access to a well equipped gym. The location is amazing - minutes away from the vibrant Galata district.
Photo courtesy of Hostel Le Banc via Booking.com
BEST HOSTEL (GALATA): Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5)
Budget travellers will love this friendly, super-clean hostel with mixed and female-only dormitories which feature free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning. There is a well-equipped kitchen and a shared terrace and lounge area. Guests can also enjoy a delicious daily buffet breakfast. There are also very reasonably priced private ensuite rooms.
Photo courtesy of Fener Sweet via Booking.com
TOP BUDGET CHOICE (BALAT): Fener Sweet (⭐ 9.5)
We love this friendly homestay which offers guests a fully equipped kitchen (including a washing machine), a lovely shared lounge and a rooftop garden. The rooms are spotlessly clean and have free tea/coffee making facilities, free Wi-Fi and ensuite bathrooms. The homestay is just steps away from the picturesque coloured houses and Balat's numerous cafes and restaurants.
Photo courtesy of Ayramin Hotel Taksim via Booking.com
BEST MID-RANGE PICK (TAKSIM): Ayramin Hotel Taksim (⭐ 9.3)
Minutes away from Taksim Square and Istiklal shopping street, this hotel features comfortable and sumptuously furnished ensuite rooms with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. There are even rooms with private Turkish baths! The hotel also offers a tasty buffet breakfast with assorted dishes.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Saint Sophia via Booking.com
TOP BOUTIQUE OPTION (SULTANAHMET): Hotel Saint Sophia (⭐ 9.1)
This gorgeous boutique hotel is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway in Istanbul's main historical district. Featuring ensuite rooms with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, each room also has Bulgari toiletries! The Blue Mosque is just 250 yards away and some rooms have a breathtaking view over the Hagia Sophia. There is also a tasty á la carte breakfast.
Photo courtesy of Çirağan Palace Kempinski via Booking.com
TOP LUXURY OPTION (BEŞIKTAŞ): Çirağan Palace Kempinski (⭐ 8.9)
If you have oodles of cash, why not stay in a former 19th Century Ottoman Palace? This gorgeous hotel boasts numerous restaurants, an incredible outdoor infinity pool with panoramic Bosphorus views and a full-service spa and fitness centre. Some rooms even have their own 24-hour private butler service!
❓ FAQs About Christmas in Istanbul
Istanbul at Christmas time - what is it like?
Istanbul is surprisingly festive - you’ll see lots of pretty lights, Christmas trees and other decorations in most neighbourhoods. Luxury hotels offer traditional Christmas dinners and brunches and there are also Christmas markets throughout December. You’ll even find church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
What is the weather in Turkey at Christmas?
Turkey is a huge country, so the weather varies greatly depending on where you are. In southwestern Turkey, the weather is quite sunny and warm - usually between 15°C-20°C/59°F-68°F in December. In Istanbul the temperatures are lower - 7°C-11°C/45°F-52°F. If you travel far east to places like Kars or Erzurum, the temperatures drop well below 0!
So if you’re wondering “Is Turkey hot at Christmas?” the answer is - it can be, it just depends on where you are.
Give me some Christmas in Turkey facts!
Christmas isn’t widely celebrated in Turkey: aside from small Christian communities, Turkish people don’t really celebrate Christmas.
However, the symbolism that we normally associate with Christmas is found everywhere in Turkey because it represents the New Year. So Santa Claus, reindeer, pine trees, baubles and twinkly lights actually relate to New Year celebrations. A little confusing but it means there is a festive atmosphere!
Christmas in Turkey is a normal day: everything is open because it isn’t a public holiday. So that means that all tourist attractions in Istanbul, from the Basilica Cistern to the Galata Tower, are open as normal.
Is it worth spending Christmas in Istanbul?
Absolutely! It’s cheaper than other popular European destinations, the weather is mild and the city is surprisingly festive with lights, decorations, Christmas markets, church services and even traditional Christmas dinners.
🦌 Enjoy Christmas in Istanbul!
We hope that you’ve enjoyed this article about Christmas in Istanbul 2023! As you can see, Istanbul can be a great place to enjoy Christmas and the city has a lot to offer travellers looking for a fun festive break.
Before you go, check out these other articles about Istanbul and Turkey/Türkiye:
🍲 The Best Istanbul Food Tours
🏠 Best Areas to Stay in Istanbul: Coolest Neighbourhoods & Top Hotels
🌟 22 Best Hotels in Istanbul With a View
🗓 The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary 10 Days
🇹🇷 The Best Places to Visit in Turkey
🏔 Cappadocia in Winter: 7 Reasons to Visit & 16 Amazing Things to Do
🌷 Visit Istanbul Tulip Festival (Istanbul Lale Festivali)
🎪 18 Best Festivals in Istanbul
🛫 How to Get from Istanbul Airport to the City Centre
🔍 Exploring Balat Istanbul: An Insider's Guide to One of Istanbul's Most Unique Neighbourhoods
⛄ 9 Awesome Reasons to Spend Winter in Istanbul
✅ 12 Things You Must Do in Istanbul
🍔 Off the Eaten Track: The Best Street Food in Istanbul
🍟 The Best Vegan Fast Food in Istanbul
🥦 Where to Find the Best Vegan Turkish Breakfast in Istanbul
🥑 Vegan Istanbul: The Best Under-the-Radar Restaurants
🖼️ 14 Top Things To Do in Gaziantep
Find more travel guides about Turkey here.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Click here to discover more of our favourite places around the world.
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