Istanbul: Pub Crawl Rooftop Clubs & Party Bus Nightlife

Summary

Nightlife in Taksim with rooftop bars, party bus & new friends

You’ll jump into Istanbul nightlife with new friends, starting with welcome shots and drinking games before hitting three clubs by party bus. Local guides know every shortcut and rooftop view — plus you’ll get free entry and drinks along the way. Expect laughter, music, maybe a little raki-fueled courage, and memories that stick long after sunrise.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — music leaking out from Asmalı Mescit’s narrow alleys, people laughing in a dozen languages. We met our guide (his name was Emre, super chill) right by a neon-lit doorway. He handed us these tiny plastic shot glasses — “welcome to Istanbul!” he said, and honestly that first shot burned but in a good way. There were already drinking games going on at the tables; I tried one and lost immediately. No shame.

We moved as a group through Nevizade, which was packed even on a Thursday — locals shouting over each other, waiters balancing trays of meze and beer like it’s nothing. Emre kept pointing out things I’d never notice: the old men playing backgammon on the curb, or how every bar has its own secret rooftop (he winked and said we’d see for ourselves). The air smelled like grilled fish and cigarette smoke. At some point we all piled onto this party bus — air conditioning blasting, someone passed around a bottle of raki (I tried to sip slow but it sneaks up on you). The city lights outside looked kind of blurry after that.

Istanbul’s nightlife is wild but weirdly friendly. Each club felt different — one had this sticky floor and 90s Turkish pop; another was all glass walls and you could see the Bosphorus if you squinted past the dancers. Free shots at every stop (my head paid for it later), plus Emre somehow got us into places without waiting in line. There were people from Brazil, Germany, Korea — everyone just sort of clicked by the second bar. Someone spilled their drink on my shoes but apologized in three languages so I couldn’t even be annoyed.

I didn’t expect to feel so at home in such chaos. There’s this moment near midnight when you’re standing on a rooftop with strangers-turned-friends, looking out over Istanbul’s lights — it’s loud and messy and perfect in its own way. I still think about that view sometimes when I hear Turkish pop at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Istanbul nightlife pub crawl

• Meet at Asmalı Mescit
• Enjoy free shot and drinking games
• Visit Nevizade area bars
• Take party bus to Taksim
• Receive free bottle of Raki
• Enter 3 party venues free
• Take free shots at each venue
• Play drinking games
• Get professional photos taken

Top questions

How many clubs do you visit during the Istanbul pub crawl?

You’ll visit at least three top venues during the pub crawl night.

Is transportation included between bars?

Yes, there’s an air-conditioned party bus included to take you between venues.

Are drinks included in the price?

You get free shots at each venue plus a welcome shot at the meeting point.

Where does the pub crawl start?

The tour kicks off in Asmalı Mescit within Taksim district.

Is there an age limit for joining?

You must be above 18 years old to join this pub crawl.

Are entrance fees covered?

Yes, entrance fees for all three venues are included in your booking.

Is food provided during the tour?

No meals are included; only drinks are provided as part of the experience.

Can solo travelers join or do you need a group?

You can join solo or with friends; many people come alone to meet others.

What’s included

Your night includes free entry to three venues across Taksim district, welcome cocktail shots plus raki shots at each stop, an air-conditioned party bus ride between bars (with more raki), drinking games at the start, professional photos throughout the night, and guidance from local hosts who know all the best spots before heading back whenever you’re ready (or able).