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The square is famous for its public events, shops and restaurants that surround it. Oh, my.

Take chances to get off the beaten path, too, at places like the eerily beautiful Basilica Cistern (Subterranean Palace), which is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul or stepping up for a scrub down at a Turkish bath or hammam.

For our recommended day trip outside of Istanbul, hop on a ferry to The Princes’ Islands – a charming archipelago of 9 islands in the Sea of Marmara.

Despite some challenges, Istanbul remains one of the most inclusive cities

10 THINGS TO SEE in ISTANBUL

The Hagia Sophia, once a Christian church, then a mosque and now a museum, enchants with its imposing dome, Byzantine mosaics and elegant architecture that fuses two great religious traditions.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

The Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, is known for its blue domes and lighthouses, with interiors adorned with ceramic tiles and a majestic prayer hall.

Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Saray)

This palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for centuries.

This area is also known for its vibrant Jewish community. Located in a port warehouse, it hosts works of contemporary Turkish art in an 8000 square meter exhibition space, becoming a fundamental stop for tourists and a cultural reference point for the city and Turkey.

  • Watch out for tourist traps!

    But Istanbul’s LGBTQ culture shines brightest when strangers become friends over thumping Turkish pop songs on illuminated dance floors, forgetting their worries as the Bosphorus breeze rolls in.

    • Intro to Istanbul

    Let's start with the obvious - Istanbul is stunning. The skyline is full of minarets and domes, punctuated by the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

    While public affection remains taboo in conservative corners, Istanbul revels in dynamic gay nightlife if you know where to look.

    Make your way to the central Beyoğlu district, the longtime pulse of Istanbul's gay scene. This after-hours hotspot doesn’t get going until around 3 am, making it the ultimate destination for late-night revelers.

    But there's more to Istanbul than its postcard-worthy sights. In Istanbul, the choice of restaurants requires attention to avoid culinary disappointments and financial rip-offs. Perched on the 1st floor, this lively venue is your ticket to a night of live Turkish music, electrifying DJ sets, and fabulous drag performances. Below is our comprehensive list of the best gay bars in Istanbul:

    Things To Do + See Around Istanbul

    The base of the former Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul is a unique fusion of culture, cuisine, and facets as the European and Asian sides are divided by the Bosphorus Strait.

    The 61 rooms feature handcrafted furniture, silk carpets, and marble bathrooms, while the rooftop restaurant, Zeferan, offers panoramic views of the Marmara Sea alongside contemporary interpretations of Ottoman palace cuisine. For those feeling adventurous, there’s even a dark room to explore.

    Important Safety Notes

    For the LGBTQ+ community, Istanbul is a city of contrasts.

    So, when he died, the inhabitants decided to honor him.

    Gay Guide • ISTANBUL | What to See, Where to Stay, Best Gay Bars and Restaurants | LGBT Guide

    • World Mappers
    • Jun 13, 2024
    • 6 min read

    Updated: Jan 28

    Discover this City with our Quick and Practical Guide to Visit the Best Attractions, Savor Typical Dishes and Have Fun in the Best Gay Bars.

    Open every night, this fun-filled dance club draws a lively mix of locals and tourists. Here are some of our top picks for places to visit while in Istanbul.

    Fabulous spots to see while in Istanbul

    • Chora Church - A medieval Greek Orthodox church, used as a mosque since the 16th century, in the Edirnekapı neighborhood of Istanbul.

      As you explore Balat, you immerse yourself in a fascinating labyrinth of historic buildings, artisan workshops and cozy cafés, offering an authentic experience of daily life in Istanbul.

    Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)

    Descending into the depths of the Basilica Cistern, you enter an underground world of marble columns and soft lights, creating a mysterious and evocative atmosphere that enchants visitors.

    Located on the banks of the Bosphorus, the Ortaköy Mosque is truly spectacular thanks to its baroque architecture and spectacular views, while the surrounding neighborhood offers a lively and cosmopolitan environment.

    Visiting this city at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it.

    istanbul gay area

    Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, bring lots of cash!

  • Respecting the dress code and local traditions is essential. There are no laws specifically protecting LGBTQ+ rights, and same-sex relationships, while not illegal, are not widely accepted.