Citylights Bar Taksim
Experience Istanbul's glittering skyline from Citylights Bar Taksim, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a sophisticated ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness city lights ignite
Citylights Bar Taksim
Best Time
Witness city lights ignite
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Istanbul's glittering skyline from Citylights Bar Taksim, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a sophisticated ambiance.
"A full panorama view of the city at night, it’s simply breathtaking."
🎯 Book Your Window Seat
Reserve in advance for the best panoramic views, especially for sunset.
💰 Prepare for Premium Prices
Drinks can be around €20; it's a splurge, but the view is worth it.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Cityscape
Floor-to-ceiling windows
Witness Istanbul transform from sunset to a glittering metropolis. Breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and city lights.
Elegant Ambiance
Bar area
Classy atmosphere with relaxing jazz music, perfect for a sophisticated evening out.
Gourmet Bites & Cocktails
Bar menu
Enjoy top-tier food and expertly crafted cocktails, including unique options like lactose-free cheesecake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Views
Budget for a Splurge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Window Seat
Reserve in advance for the best panoramic views, especially for sunset.
💰 Prepare for Premium Prices
Drinks can be around €20; it's a splurge, but the view is worth it.
🎶 Enjoy the Chill Vibes
Relax to the sounds of jazz and cool old-school tunes.
🧾 Double-Check Your Bill
Be mindful of potential errors, like an un-ordered bottle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Window Seat
Reserve in advance for the best panoramic views, especially for sunset.
💰 Prepare for Premium Prices
Drinks can be around €20; it's a splurge, but the view is worth it.
🎶 Enjoy the Chill Vibes
Relax to the sounds of jazz and cool old-school tunes.
🧾 Double-Check Your Bill
Be mindful of potential errors, like an un-ordered bottle.
📸 Capture the Magic
The city lights at night are a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Citylights Bar Taksim is lauded for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul at night, creating an unforgettable and magical experience. The classy ambiance, excellent service, and high-quality food and drinks are consistently praised, making it a worthwhile splurge for many. However, visitors should be prepared for premium prices comparable to major international cities.
"I cant tell you how beautiful this place is. A full panorama view of the city at night, it’s simply breathtaking.
The staff was so kind and professional. The ambiance was very classy with relaxing jazz in the background. Although yes it is expensive, 20€ / 900 Lira for a drink is a lot, but 100% worth the view."
Atilla Erdogan
"If only I could put in words the level of hospitality and kindness on the part of the stuff and the beauty of the view of Istanbul!
Food and drinks quality were top tier, prices were on the high end, but it was worth it. I spent many hours in the bar, enjoying the incredible view."
Prodromos Peios
"What a wonderful bar! An absolute must try...
We were staying locally and came across this bar and thought we would check it out, we arrived around 17:30 and were given a table overlooking the floor to ceiling glass windows. The view of the Bosphorus was sublime and as we sat and had our drinks the sun set and all the lights came on across the city, it is just such a wonderful experience. Service was first class as you would expect and the DJ was playing some really cool old school tunes, we didn't eat here so I can't comment on the food quality. We liked it so much that we came back again on our last night in Istanbul."
Ranvinder Ajimal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Citylights Bar is located within the InterContinental Istanbul hotel in Taksim. You can reach Taksim Square via metro (M2 line) or various bus routes. From Taksim Square, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the hotel.
The InterContinental Istanbul hotel offers parking facilities, though fees may apply. It's advisable to check with the hotel directly for current rates and availability.
Taxis are readily available and a convenient option for late-night travel. The metro also runs until late, but check its operating hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required. However, reservations are highly recommended, especially for window seats, to guarantee entry and the best views.
The bar is typically open in the evenings, with many visitors arriving around sunset (around 5:30 PM) to enjoy the transition. It's best to confirm exact hours with the InterContinental Istanbul.
The ambiance is described as classy, suggesting smart casual attire is appropriate. Avoid overly casual wear to fit the sophisticated environment.
Yes, reservations are strongly advised to secure a table by the floor-to-ceiling windows for the most spectacular city views.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The bar features relaxing jazz music and cool old-school tunes, contributing to its sophisticated and enjoyable ambiance.
Absolutely! The breathtaking views, classy ambiance, and relaxing music make it an ideal spot for a romantic date night.
The vibe is sophisticated and classy, with an unforgettable panoramic view of Istanbul at night. It's a place to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
Many visitors spend several hours enjoying the view, drinks, and atmosphere. It's a place to linger and soak in the experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The bar offers top-tier food, including appetizers like shrimp bomb, calamari, and ceviche, as well as desserts. They also have options like lactose-free cheesecake.
While specific signature drinks aren't detailed, the bar is known for its quality cocktails and is a great place to try unique beverages.
While not explicitly detailed, the mention of lactose-free cheesecake suggests they cater to dietary needs. It's best to inquire directly about vegetarian or vegan choices.
With food, expect to pay around €40 per person. Prices are on the high end, similar to London and NYC.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is magical as the city lights begin to twinkle. The full night panorama is also spectacular.
There's no specific mention of tripod restrictions, but given the bar's classy ambiance, it's best to be discreet. Check with staff if unsure.
The primary photo spots are by the floor-to-ceiling windows offering the panoramic city and Bosphorus views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Couples Seeking Romance
Enjoying a well-crafted cocktail or a delicious dessert while overlooking the glittering city lights provides a memorable backdrop for conversation and connection. The attentive service further enhances the feeling of a special occasion.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Alternatively, you could visit for a single, special drink to toast a memorable trip. The experience of the view is the primary draw, so even a brief visit can be impactful.
✈️ Day-Trippers and Short Stays
It's an ideal spot to relax after a busy day, enjoy a sophisticated drink, and get a sweeping overview of the vastness of Istanbul. Remember to book ahead to ensure you get a prime spot for your limited time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unforgettable View
This view is particularly stunning during the 'golden hour' and well into the night. It's the perfect backdrop for a special occasion, a romantic evening, or simply a moment of awe. Many guests find themselves spending hours just gazing out at the illuminated cityscape, making it a truly immersive experience.
To maximize your experience, booking a table by the window in advance is crucial, especially during peak times like sunset. This ensures you have the best vantage point to capture the magic and soak in the unparalleled scenery.
Ambiance and Service
The hospitality and kindness of the staff are frequently highlighted in reviews. They are described as professional and attentive, contributing significantly to the overall positive experience. While the prices reflect a high-end establishment, the quality of service often makes guests feel it's well worth the cost.
This combination of a stunning visual spectacle and a refined, welcoming environment makes Citylights Bar Taksim a standout destination for those seeking a memorable night out in Istanbul.
Culinary Delights and Drinks
For those with a sweet tooth, the desserts are a highlight, with the lactose-free cheesecake being specifically praised for its divine taste – a rare find for those with dietary restrictions. The bar also serves expertly crafted cocktails, ensuring a delightful beverage experience to accompany the food and views.
While the prices are on the higher side, comparable to major international cities, the quality of both the food and drinks, combined with the exceptional setting, contributes to the overall value proposition for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit