How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Istanbul

By Justin Mays:

The year is about to end, there are only a few days left to say goodbye to 2022 and welcome 2023. For many, it is time to look back, to take stock of the 12 months we have just spent. For many more, it is time to make a list of New Year's resolutions. Some of the most recurring have always been to quit smoking, read more, lead a healthier life, not use your mobile so much... Are you one of those who also set New Year's resolutions?

With intentions or not, what we all hope for on these important dates is to spend the last days of the year with our loved ones. What more can you ask for than good company? If you add to this good food, a good attitude, and a cozy place, the plan is already round. And although in Istanbul Christmas does not have as much weight as in other countries, New Year's Eve is marked on the calendars of practically all houses.

In a city as big as this one, it is sometimes difficult to know very well what is the best plan to spend December 31st. We know that it is a super important day and that all residents, in one way or another, celebrate it with family and friends. The plans are almost endless, but it's time to think: do I want to celebrate at home or away? Do I want to go to a party or something more homemade? In a quiet place or in a disco?

If you are one of those who are still not sure what to do at the end of the year, here are five plans that you can do to say goodbye to 2022. We hope you enjoy it and, a few days in advance, we wish you a happy 2023, full of health and unforgettable moments with your loved ones.

Spending the night on a rooftop

Istanbul has one of the most beautiful skylines in the world. Possibly, the elements that make this skyline so special are the mosques and the shores of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. It is not surprising, then, that the views that can be seen of the city from the rooftops are truly spectacular. This is why we suggest you spend New Year's Eve in a bar or restaurant that has a rooftop.

From the top of the establishment, you will be able to see what the city looks like at night, when it is fully illuminated. Also, if the rooftop you are on is near the Bosphorus, you may be able to see the mythical fireworks that take place in the area on certain dates. If you are thinking of going to a rooftop, in this link we suggest some options. 

Watching the Bosphorus fireworks

The Bosphorus is, without a doubt, one of the most mythical and adored elements of Istanbul. The most mystical tend to say that water has a supernatural power over people. Some even think that water, like people themselves, have a spiritual connection with the moon. We don't have hard evidence about this, but what we do know is that almost everyone who lives in Istanbul has a special love for the Bosphorus. In fact, for many, one of the most relaxing things one can do in the metropolis is to board a ferry across the Bosphorus. It is an almost magical feeling.

The waters of the Bosphorus are usually, on dates such as New Year's Eve, the setting for an impressive fireworks display. If you have not yet been lucky enough to enjoy them, perhaps this New Year's Eve is the ideal time to do so. We are sure that you will not be disappointed.

Having dinner in a fancy restaurant

Turkey has always been linked to gastronomy. So much so that there are dozens of traditional dishes that have become authentic delights for food lovers. But as if this were not enough, Istanbul recently became part of the well-known Michelin Guide.

In our blogs, a few weeks ago, we reviewed what this means for all those gastronomy lovers who visit or live in Istanbul. In this link, we give you a summary of the restaurants that have obtained recognition from the Michelin Guide. For us, spending New Year's Eve in an establishment with this certificate is undoubtedly one of the best options.

Joining a cruise party

And if watching the fireworks from the Bosphorus is already a great plan, imagine if you do it from a cruise ship sailing through its waters. Things can only get better. Istanbul, being a city so linked to the sea, has dozens of companies these days that organize parties on cruise ships. They are usually companies that organize everything, from the menu to the music. If you are one of those who prefer to leave everything in the hands of others, this is the easiest option. In addition, sailing through the waters that surround Istanbul on December 31 and seeing the fireworks from there can be spectacular.

Enjoying a private house party

If what you want is to do something more homemade, perhaps the best plan is to organize a party at home with family and friends. The truth is that this is one of the most common plans among people residing in Istanbul. After all, New Year's Eve is a date on which the streets of the metropolis are packed with people, so it is not surprising that many prefer the warmth of a home.

Who said that staying at home is not a good plan? Quite the opposite! If you have good company, good food, good music, and good energy, you will surely start the year in the best possible way. We wish you the best for these dates!