|
|
Istanbul presents itself as a city of pulsating life with numerous bars, cafes and clubs. Its recent economic growth and increasing prosperity had an enormous effect on the vitality, energy and variety of its nightlife. The range from which you can choose is huge, from traditional male-dominated clubs to techno and rave nightclubs. Many nightclubs also offer oriental shows with belly dancers, groups of Russian or Romanian dancers or cabaret singers. Besides you can find numerous rock bars which play live music mainly bands performing covers of popular rock classics and combining it with the latest disco mixes. Alternative music has become also very popular, so its easy to find clubs with a focus on underground, hardcore and drum ‘n’ bass. A more relaxed atmosphere is offered by various late-opening cafes serving coffee and tea as well as alcohol with a range of classical music, chill-out or drum ‘n’ bass playing in the background. Most of the time, these cafés are enormously stylish and serve the young and mobile elite of the country. But nevertheless, the prices are a little lower than in other European cities. If in doubt, clearly establish prices before ordering anything in order to prevent surprises.
Also gay nightlife is largely confined to Istanbul, where many bars and clubs of the gay community are locate, most of them around Taksim. Beyoglu has been a stronghold for the party life for centuries. You can find wine bars, nightclubs and jazz venues which are mostly open until 2 am, some even until 4 am. Nightclubs are open until 6 am at weekends. Be prepared to have your passport or an equivalent ID with you every time you go out! And especially male visitors should be cautious if local guys come to you and pretend to befriend with you. Most of the time you will end up with no friend but a huge bill, be aware!
|
E-mail this to a friend
Printable version
