Istanbul: Pub Quiz Night & Social Trivia at Sanat Teras

Summary

Trivia, laughter and new friends in Istanbul’s nightlife

You’ll join Istanbul locals and fellow travelers for a lively pub quiz night at Sanat Teras—no need to bring friends; you’ll be matched with a team. Expect bilingual trivia questions, friendly competition, drinks flowing, and maybe even some spontaneous karaoke afterwards. It’s less about winning and more about sharing laughs in good company—plus you’ll walk away with new friends and stories.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was how everyone just sort of shuffled together near the bar — no awkwardness, even though I came alone. The host, Deniz, waved me over with this big grin and asked if I wanted to join a team or fly solo (I definitely needed a team). There was this mix of Turkish and English floating around, and somehow it made the whole thing feel less intimidating. I ended up next to a couple from Izmir and an expat named Sam who’d been coming for months. The quiz started with a question about old Istanbul cinemas — I had no clue, but Sam whispered “Emek!” like it was obvious.

The questions bounced between languages, sometimes mid-sentence, which made us all laugh when someone tried to translate on the fly. At one point my team argued (in three languages) about whether baklava has pistachios or walnuts — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Turkish; probably butchered it. There were bonus rounds that got weirdly specific (who knew so many people knew 90s Eurovision winners?), but nobody seemed to mind being wrong. Between rounds we’d grab beers from the bar — Efes on tap, slightly too cold for my taste but perfect after a humid Istanbul day.

When they announced the scores there was this big cheer for the last-place team (turns out that’s tradition here), and after prizes were handed out, people just hung around talking. Some drifted into karaoke upstairs; others stayed outside on the terrace as seagulls screeched over Istiklal’s neon lights. I didn’t expect to feel so at home in a city where I barely speak the language. If you’re looking for something that isn’t just another tourist night out — well, I still think about that view from the terrace and how easy it was to belong for a few hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening trivia and social event

• Arrive at Sanat Teras
• Join a trivia team
• Participate in bilingual pub quiz
• Celebrate quiz results
• Enjoy drinks and social break
• Hang out with karaoke and more

Top questions

Is the Istanbul pub quiz night suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome—organizers will match you with a team so you won’t be left out.

Are the trivia questions in English or Turkish?

The quiz is fully bilingual with questions in both English and Turkish.

Where does the trivia night take place in Istanbul?

It takes place at Sanat Teras, a popular venue near Istiklal Street.

What time does the pub quiz start and end?

The quiz runs from 19:30 to 22:00, followed by social time and optional karaoke.

Can I join if I don’t know anyone in Istanbul?

Absolutely—you’ll be placed on a team with other participants if you come alone.

Is there an entry fee for the trivia night?

Your entry into the venue and trivia night is included when booking this experience.

Are there any physical requirements or restrictions?

The event is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, Sanat Teras is accessible by public transport options close by.

What’s included

Your evening includes entry into Sanat Teras and full participation in Istanbul’s longest-running bilingual pub quiz night—guided in both English and Turkish—plus plenty of chances to mingle over drinks before heading home or sticking around for karaoke if you feel like it.