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You've spent the entire day exploring Istanbul's mosques, monuments and palaces.
You've walked through the remnants of Constantinople and the Byzantine and
Ottoman Empires and you have the sore feet to prove it! You've returned to your
quiet hotel room, had shower, rest and cup of Turkish tea. Now you're ready to
hit the city again! But where to go in Istanbul after dark? Here are a few ideas
on stepping out in Istanbul!
Bosphorus Cruise
If sore feet are a priority, enjoy an evening of food, drink and live music
while cruising between Europe and Asia on one of the world's most magnificent
waterways. Put your feet up as you cruise by dramatically lit mosques, palaces
and under the city's soaring bridges. Spy on the night activity in the posh
Bosphorus neighborhoods of Bebek and Ulus. The price includes a full dinner,
drinks, an exciting floorshow with a Turkish belly dancer and round trip
transfer from your hotel. Ask a local agency about availability.
Dinner with a View: Hamdi Restaurant
If you're in the mood for something local then head for Hamdi. Located just
steps away from the Egyptian Spice Market, this popular place serves typical
Turkish fare; hot grilled kebabs, small bowls of colorful mezes, crisp green
salads and last, but certainly not least, Baklava! (Dubbed Turkish Viagra buy
the locals!) But the real star of Hamdi is the view. Sit on the top terrace and
take in views of Galata, the Bosphorus and the magnificent mosques of Eminonu.
Balik Sokak
Just steps away from the Marmara Sea, Balik Sokak (Fish Street) comes alive at
dusk with lively restaurants serving fresh fish, meze, raki and lots of beer.
Expect live music, impromptu singing and dancing performed by tipsy Turkish men
with big mustaches!
Nevizade Sokak
Just off the Beyoglu Balik Pazari (Beyoglu Fish market) and Cicek Pasaji,
Nevizade Sokak is a narrow street chock full of bars and outdoor restaurants.
The restaurants offer meze, meals and musicians at your table; the bars offer
stools where you can park, people watch and enjoy a chilled Efes beer. Some of
the bars have terraces on the roof, of course every waiter will swear blind that
his bar's terrace is more beautiful than the next guy's! Most places have a
fixed-price menu, so ask for prices in advance.
Turkish Night
If you're a fan of music or dance, then a check out an evening "Turkish Night"
dinner show, featuring traditional song, dance and costumes from the four
corners of Turkey. Favorites include the fast spinning and stomping of the
energetic Black Sea Dancers and the mesmerizing whirling of of the famed
whirling dervishes. The evening belongs, however, by the lovely belly-dancing
ladies who can show you a move or two! Book early at a local agency for good
seats. Again, ask at a local agency about shows as they vary in price and
program. Full dinner, drinks and transportation to and from your hotel are
included in the price.
Nargile Cafe
Corlulu Ali Pasa Narghile Cafe was built in 1709, and is a well-known
atmospheric water-pipe (nargile) place near Beyazit, (just 2 tramway stops from
Sultanahmet stop, or a short stroll along the tramline.) This lovely hidden spot
is where you can try a waterpipe or just relax and enjoy the exotic aroma of an
apricot Narghile while sipping Turkish tea or coffee. Kittens will play at your
feet. Old men will play backgammon. A great place to unwind after a trip to the
nearby Grand Bazaar. The cafe serves a variety of tea, soft drinks and Turkish
coffee.
Sultanahmet Hot Spots
Looking for an after diner drink not too far from your hotel? In Sultanahmet,
grab a cocktail, raki, Efes Beer or glass of wine at...
Sah Bar: Hidden away from the main Tramway Street, this bar is rocking the alley
in the summer, and warm and intimate by the fireplace in the winter. Cosy decor
and great music.
Akbayik Street: There are a few bars that go all night long on this street.
Check out "Just Bar", popular with locals and backpackers. Great outdoor
seating.
The North Shield: Located just off the Gulhane tramway station one stop away
from Sultanahmet. More expensive than the first two, but a great place to watch
a football match.
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