Activities

How To Spend 2023 New Year in Istanbul?

Who doesn’t love the spirit of the New Year? Some of us even live for the concept of “fresh starts” within the new year. In the spirit of this wonderful time of the year, here are the main activities you can do during the period of New Year! Istanbul is always full of surprises, so why not learn more about what to do in new year Istanbul? You can decide on what to do to welcome New Year 2023!

Considering you want to spend new year eve in Turkiye, check out our blog to discover where to celebrate!

1. Do Pre-New Year’s Shopping

New Year is around the corner and most people are in a rush for gifts and some new clothes. While getting excited for Secret Santa, we all want to dress to impress as well. In light of both clothing and gifting ideas, here are some brands you can do shopping for to cover both of your needs at once!

Istanbul has various options for shopping, we gathered all the options such as bazaars, malls, boutiques and more in The Best Places to Go Shopping in Istanbul post!

Galataport

galataport-istanbul

Galataport is a port-based shopping mall which opened its doors last year. The place locates in Karakoy and has a walking distance of 15 minutes to the main, old streets of Karakoy. At Galataport, you may find many cafés, shops and restaurants at once while enjoying the sea sight. Galataport has stunning architecture and the location is very easy to find with all transportation. There are a few ways to go to Galataport with public transportation:

By tram: If you’d like to visit Galataport by tram, just make sure that you are on the T1 (Kabatas-Bagcilar) tram line.

By ferry: If you are on the other side of the city, you can use the ferry lines of Uskudar – Karakoy and Kadikoy – Karakoy.

 

There is no holiday without a gift card! Check out the ones I have chosen for you from Amazon.

Last updated on February 16, 2025 5:55 am

Kiğılı

kigili-gift

Kiğılı is Türkiye’s innovative men’s clothing brand, which is well-known for its wide range of clothing options, especially for business and events. Kığılı represents amazing gift ideas as clothing and accessories. You can treat yourself or your loved ones to a gift from Kiğılı. The great news is that if you are unsure what to buy, the brand offers a Gift Card you can buy and decide on your gift later! That might be the style touch you need for the New Year!

Kığılı’s non-iron shirt, with the motto “Brilliant New Year that suits us”, will be a good gift idea to make your loved ones happy at New Year’s. Wool touch knitwear, which minimizes pilling, has already entered the HeyTripster team’s Christmas list of long-lasting gifts.

If you are looking for a gift alternative for your loved ones and business partners, you can look at kigili.com.

Nişantaşı

Nişantaşı should be one of your first stops if you’re looking for a more European experience. It is a great choice for any shopaholic, as it is home to many high-end designer stores ranging from Gucci to Armani, Louis Vuitton to Prada or Cartier. The district’s avenues and side streets are also well-known for their charming cafes and restaurants. Also, you can visit the City’s AVM hosting shops of various brands such as L’occitane, Beymen Club, adL, İpekyol, Chakra and more!

İpekyol

The Ipekyol 2022-23 Fall/Winter Collection is a celebration of the season, with its timeless, simple character, striking lines, and assertive colors… Timeless and classic designs take center stage in the Collection, which offers a modern interpretation of the 1980s and 1990s. Trench coats, with their distinct characteristics, are our go-to wardrobe pieces this season. While elegant dresses and blouses feature drape details, tweed jackets retain their classic vibes. Transparent knitwear pieces, one of the collection’s highlights, create a feminine effect with foil print details and embroidery. Knitwear dresses that turn heads with their vibrant yet timeless colors, and jackets designed with meticulous attention to detail emphasize a modern and timeless style, being elegant and free…

Machka

The Machka 2022-23 Fall/Winter Collection creates a new world of dreams inspired by striking symbols by combining elegant and sophisticated designs with modern splendor. Machka frequently uses rich embroidery details on dresses and in different product lines, taking the most elegant silhouettes one step further by modernizing traditional handcraft with unique materials. Bows used in dresses and blouses for a classic touch, beadwork, and elegant details emphasizing the waistline continue their style journey in Machka’s Fall/Winter 2022-23 collection. Knitwear that can withstand the unpredictable fall weather is embellished with appliques of sparkling stones to reflect elegance, and sequins added to sweatshirts, the go-to wardrobe piece of every season, will steal the show.

If you are looking for more local shops and products that are found only in Türkiye, check out two local bazaars in Fatih: A Guide for Istanbul Grand Bazaar’s Best Stores and Spice Bazaar Istanbul: A Shopping Heaven for the Adventurous Shopper!

Boyner

boyner

Boyner, the gift address, has particular possibilities for individuals who want to make their loved ones happy in the new year. With only a few days to 2023, everyone looking for gifts goes to Boyner stores. This photo belongs to their big store on Bagdat Avenue! Boyner offers a wide selection of brands of perfumes that always make you feel good, skin care products with natural ingredients for those who care about 360-degree care, moisturizers, masks, elegant, colorful, and sparkling earrings for those who love accessories, necklaces, bracelets, and wristwatches.

You will need to rent a car to do everything you planned to in Istanbul, I’m suggesting this link for your safe trip.

2. Visit Christmas Markets

To feel at home, you can visit some Christmas Markets in the central areas of Istanbul new years eve. Most of these markets are located on the European side of the city, and some of them even hold events within their own calendar. Here are a few Christmas Markets that we would like to suggest you visit during your trip to Istanbul!

Four Seasons Hotel Christmas Market

christmas-market

Four Seasons is one of the prestigious hotels in Istanbul. The hotel has a breathtaking Bosphorus view and it is located in the Besiktas area. Every year, to celebrate the New Year, the hotel creates a Christmas Market atmosphere to feel the spirit at its fullest. You can visit Four Seasons Hotel’s Christmas Market from 16th to the 25th of December at any hour. You can check the tickets . To see the musicians taking place at the Christmas Market Istanbul 2022 read our article!

Istanbul Wonder Village

The start of a journey to new days, dreams, pleasures, and fun… Are you ready for the biggest winter market in town? Taking place at KüçükÇiftlik Park, you can attend Wonder Village between the dates of 21 – 30 December. From a carousel to ice skating, from eating and drinking areas full of winter delicacies to souvenir shopping stands, Wonder Village will provide all-day entertainment for the entire family. The magical New Year’s Eve town, where everyone from seven to seventy will spend time with their friends, will envelop the entire city with the New Year’s spirit. In Wonder Village, where the most popular stars will perform, Istanbulites will find a program full of New Year’s activities and workshops. Meet under the magical lights of Wonder Village, which will transport you to another world right in the heart of the city! .

3. Go to Concerts

concert-istanbul

Istanbul people usually celebrate the New Year with amazing concerts all over the city! Istanbul new year’s eve party 2022 is a real experience you should know before visiting Istanbul. You can visit this page to see the guide page prepared for Biletix New Year’s events. Do you know where to stay? You should book a hotel for your trip to stay close to the center!

If you feel like partying and boosting your mood with music during your New Year in Istanbul, how about this concert?

Hugh Coltman – CRR Jazz Orchestra “New Year’s Concert”

Hugh Coltman, a charismatic voice of European jazz, is meeting with the CRR Jazz Orchestra, directed by Nail Yavuzoğlu, for the first big orchestra performance in Türkiye at the New Year’s concert. Coltman was inspired by the songs his mother played from the legendary American jazz musician Nat King Cole when he was a child and began studying Cole’s repertoire as he grew up.

Don’t miss this special night where the artist promises to give the audience an unforgettable evening with his repertoire ranging from Coltman Jeff Buckley to Nat King Cole. For tickets and more, visit Biletix.com. The concert is on 29th December at CRR Concert Hall. To reach the venue, you can take the metro line M2 (Yenikapi-Haciosman) and get off at the Osmanbey station. After that, the concert hall is only about a 10-minute walking distance.

Karışık Kaset (Mix Cassette) New Year Special- KadiköySahne

If you’d like to spend your new year’s eve with a bunch of people who like to dance, then this option can be perfect for you. Kadıköy is a place that comes first to most of the locals’ minds when they are asked about Istanbul nightlife. The neighbourhood is always full of people and has many possibilities that can meet every conceivable activity need. That being said, KadıköySahne which is one of the indispensable venues of Istanbul known for hosting live performances, invites you to a night that will take you to your childhood, youth and happiest times.

With a special playlist that will make you remember every moment of the 90s, KadiköySahne is preparing to create an atmosphere that will take of all the troubles and worries of 2022. So, if you are ready to be surrounded by people, enjoy a good DJ set and are excited about the new year, get your tickets before it runs out! Find tickets and more information from the Biletix site, the party starts at 9 pm! You can reach the venue by walking for 7 minutes after taking the M4 (Sabiha Gökçen Airport- Kadıköy) metro line and getting off at the Kadıköy stop.

Oldies but Goldies New Year Party- Babylon

Another option for those who like to enter their new year dancing, we have great news from “Babylon” in Yapi Kredi Bomontiada. Babylon, the apple of the eye of concerts since the day it was opened, is one of the places you should not go to without spending a night in Istanbul. The place is quite close to Nisantasi district where you can take the metro line of M2 (Yenikapi-Haciosman) you will need to hop off in Osmanbey, and you will need to walk there for about 15 minutes if you want to go there by public transportation.

The event ‘Oldies but Goldies Party’ was held for a long time. If you are into the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s pop music culture, you will love this event! Get ready to be amazed by the songs of old and gold times- from Abba to Michael Jackson. wear comfy shoes cause your feet will hurt because of all the dancing. Book yourself a ticket from Biletix. The party will start at 10 pm and the gates will be opened simultaneously. Hope your new year will be spent dancing!

4. Watch the Fireworks

fireworks-istanbul

Istanbul loves celebrating and adding some sparks with fireworks. Just like most important occasions, locals usually spend their New Year’s Eve in Istanbul by watching the fireworks outside. Some people might even instantly go out to the streets to enjoy the sparkles of the fireworks with their beloved ones. You should know some of the most famous avenues to know beforehand! Taksim and Beşiktaş on the European Side, Kadıköy and Üsküdar on the Asian Side are the best ones to see the fireworks!

Restaurants

It is also crucial to celebrate dinner with a special view! Luckily, the Istanbul Bosphorus view is a must-see while you are visiting and there are plenty of options for you to witness the amazing view! Let’s see some of the restaurants and the blog posts you can learn more about the best ones you will be enjoying in your new year in Istanbul!

Lacivert – The Best Restaurants in Istanbul

Lacivert Restaurant combines Mediterranean flavors with Anatolian organic products. It is well-known for its relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, as well as its diverse seafood options. Lacivert, which offers a unique view of the Bosphorus, is sure to provide a great dining experience at any time of day, and if you are a late riser, you will discover that they do a fantastic brunch. Lacivert is one of the best fine dining restaurant options because of its atmosphere, view, and delicious food.

Spago – For a Real Fine-Dine Experience

The master chef of the same-named 2-star Michelin restaurant in Beverly Hills founded Spago. Wolfgang Puck, the master chef, is so good at what he does that he has organized the Academy Awards parties for the past 25 years. You will undoubtedly be delighted by Spago’s eclectic tastes. The menu changes seasonally to reflect fresh ingredients, with a farm-to-table philosophy that combines Californian, Asian, and Italian cuisines.

360 Istanbul – One of Istanbul’s Top 5 Rooftops

On the top floor of this historical and ancient Egyptian Apartment, 360Istanbul, which has received numerous international awards, welcomes you with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Istanbul. It serves international cuisine as well as modern Turkish cuisine. On weekends, 360Istanbul, which hosts famous international artists and DJs, transforms into a club with live shows. This concept is a perfect balance of its four fundamental elements: food, atmosphere, entertainment, and ambience.

Mikla – Shining with its brand-new Michelin Star

Mikla’s Turkish and Scandinavian fusion dishes will take you on an unforgettable culinary journey. Mikla takes the best Istanbul restaurant experience to the next level with its “New Anatolian Cuisine” refined food and breathtaking views. Choose Mikla for the best views of Istanbul from the Marmara Pera’s dazzling rooftop. It is an unrivaled setting for special occasions with loved ones. The daily-changing fine dining menu features various aspects of Anatolian cuisine, giving you the opportunity to sample the rich cuisine of Anatolia from the best.

Zuma – The Best Fine Dining Luxury Restaurant in Istanbul

We have the ideal location for a glamorous dinner in one of Istanbul’s most elite and sophisticated venues. You’ll feel like a VIP in this luxurious restaurant, which opened in 2016 and serves dishes from all over the world. Zuma is well-known for its Japanese cuisine, and if you’re looking for a good sushi meal in Istanbul, Zuma is the place to go. Make a reservation, and please keep in mind that reservations are not available online, so you will need to call them.

5. Join the Bosphorus Cruises

bosphorus-cruise

Who doesn’t love the amazing Bosphorus sight of Istanbul? Now, think about spending the whole New Year’s Eve in this amazing landscape with great music, food and friends, family… Doesn’t it sound amazing? It is possible to book or participate in an existing cruise tour to spend your best New Year in Istanbul. By renting a cruise, or participating in the existing cruise tours. You can also enjoy the blues and being in the middle of the continents!

You will need to make the reservation for the cruise, if you are looking for a guide about sim cards in Turkiye, check out our blog post Türkiye SIM Card for Tourists we created for you! Also, we should inform you about Turkcell, which is the leading telecommunication company in the country!

Turkcell

Turkcell brings “accessible” projects in every field to life. Turkey’s leading telecommunications company Turkcell, focuses on “equal opportunity” in accessibility solutions and social responsibility projects to ensure disabled people’s full participation in social life. With its cutting-edge technologies for people with disabilities, Turkcell implements accessible solutions and social responsibility projects in a wide range of fields, from sports to culture and arts, education to communication.

Even if we try to list all the local things to do in Istanbul, it will never be enough! Maybe, our blog post 100 Must-Have Experiences in Istanbul will help you out!

6. Participate in These Greatest Events

gifts

As you might notice until now, Istanbul has a lot to offer! Meanwhile, we can see many events are almost coming up in the next few weeks, there are additional events that we would like to suggest!

Transportation may be crucial in a metropolis like Istanbul, make sure you have the correct transportation way to arrive!

Hop

Hop is an environmentally friendly alternative to urban transportation that, with its ease of use and performance, is a true time saver! By using hop, you can help to reduce carbon emissions, which cause environmental pollution and climate change! When you use hop for your daily commute, you are helping to fight environmental pollution by lowering carbon emissions. You can download the app and use it in English, you can find red scooters all around the city! Also, don’t forget that there is a campaign special for the new year Istanbul.

In the Hop application, you can earn 5 TL per ride, 100 TL in total by simply paying the opening fee for each ride by entering the “keyfinisür” code in the wallet > promotions field and clicking the “add” button. A person can use the code a maximum of 1 time and it is valid for 1 month after adding the code. Considering you are wondering about the currencies, check out our blog post Everything You Must Know About The Currencies Before You Visit Istanbul right away!

Celebrating the New Year’s Eve on the Streets

People love spending their New Year’s Eve in Istanbul outdoors. In some common and central locations, you can see that many people are spending their time on the streets. You can find many crowds and open concerts on both continents of Istanbul. Here are some of the locations you can spend your New Year’s Eve in Istanbul on the streets:

Some of the streets, cafes, restaurants and shops are being decorated in related to the new year spirit! Check out some examples below:

Şekerci Cafer Erol

This candy shop has been in business since 1807. All candies are handcrafted and delicious. Sugar masters combine their creativity and talent with a love of dessert making. Colorful rock candies, Turkish delights and chocolates, Turkish candy and special marzipan, crushed candies, pastry and milk desserts, and jams will enchant and delight you. They also create custom designs for special occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays. You must go to Şekerci Cafer Erol, which is full of Turkish sweets and where miraculous candies are made right in the small shop in Kadköy Bazaar.

Akaretler

Breathtaking buildings next to each other, Akaretler is a center of both gastronomy and art. Hosting many exhibitions changing monthly, the view of restaurants is vibrant. You can always come across some art piece in the little square it brings together the two of its avenues. Akaretler is a vibrant neighborhood known for its 19th-century row houses, which were originally constructed for high-ranking officials of the grand waterfront Dolmabahçe Palace, which is now a museum. Maçka Park’s tree-lined walking trails are popular, and the meandering side streets are lined with shops, casual cafes, and restaurants. There are also notable art museums, as well as a Naval Museum dedicated to Turkish sailing history.

Moda

Moda has a lot to offer! Having a unique atmosphere where locals feel free, the Moda neighborhood is the hometown of many. This lively seafront district is teeming with shops, cafes, and bakeries, as well as performing arts theaters and a thriving nightlife along Kadife Street. The park’s highlights include a waterfront promenade and picnic areas. There’s also a Baris Manco museum and regular music performances at the Moda Boathouse Event Hall and the grand Sureyya Opera House.

Considering you decided to plan your trip to Istanbul, check out the 10 Things to Know Before You Arrive in Istanbul article!

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Buse Yıldırım

A global citizen, eager to travel where she has not travelled yet.
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