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Pixie

Pixie (Tomtom, Ara Güler Sk No:12, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul) – in existence since 2008, this is one of Istanbul’s nightspots that features drum & bass, dubstep and other forms of EDM (electronic dance music). This venue is rather small and has a grungy underground feel which is the appeal that its patrons want – nothing fancy or pretentious (like certain nightclubs elsewhere).

Peyote

Peyote (Kameriye Sokak.4, Beyoglu, Istanbul) — Peyote is the heart of Istanbul’s underground music scene where Punk Rock meets Jazz and Drum’n Bass looks to the face of Anatolian Folk. Located on Kemeriye Sokak (a street within the Nevizade Balıkpazarı), Peyote can only be described as a melting pot of people who are looking for an alternative night out in a neighborhood overcrowded with tacky pop bars and irritating tourist traps. The best thing about this place is the variety of environments in each of its three floors, covering a wide range of moods for different stages of the night.

Papillon

Papillon (Balo Sokak 31/4, Taksim, Istanbul) — The vibe here is what you would find in your cool friend’s lounge, with its intimate atmosphere, comfortable sofas, and a glitter ball. The drinks are cheap, the music is just at the right volume, thus the crowd is happy. The weekends tend to get quite busy and loud for the same reasons so save Papillon for a weekday depending on your preference.

Minimüzikhol

Minimüzikhol (Sıraselviler Cad. Soğancı Sok. Cihangir Palas No:3 D:1 Cihangir, Beyoğlu, Istanbul) – this is a small club with mostly electronic music. Check in advance the club’s list of future DJing acts, as you may have some very experimental artists. Don’t go too late in the night if you want to guarantee getting in. Open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, it closes at 5 am.

Masquerade

Masquerade (Yilizposta Cad Sinan Pasaji 38/26, Gayrettepe, Besiktas, Istanbul) — this venue brings new life to Istanbul’s often challenging clubbing atmosphere with cutting edge nightlife entertainment. It books world-renown musical artists and DJs in Istanbul, and sets the standard for the city’s nightlife. Masquerade attracts an average of 3,000 to 4,000 patrons per week.

Klein

Klein (Harbiye, Cebel Topu Sk. No:4, 34373 Şişli/İstanbul,) — Klein is an electronic music club that just opened in 2015. It is rather big with mostly Turkish DJs. There aren’t many tourists or expats as it is located away from Beyoglu, in Harbiye. Opened on Fridays and Saturdays until 4am.

Kiki

Kiki (Katip Mustafa Çelebi, Sıraselviler Cd. No:42, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul) — This is a nice place to chat with friends over an early evening meal. It has a lovely sunny garden with a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The garden is open year-round, with heaters and blankets in winter. Guests are allowed to smoke in the garden. The DJs who spin at Kiki are well-known characters in Istanbul’s creative scene. You can party here until 4 am to the rhythm of funk, house and disco music. It’s best to arrive before midnight as it’s not all that big and fills up fast.

Kasette

Kasette (Korsan Çıkmazı 6, Asmalimescit, Istanbul) — located on a side street away from the bustle of Istiklal street, the red glow of Kasette pulls in a crowd every night, where a dance party ensues until the morning hours with a DJ and plenty of refills. The music of choice here is electronic, primarily house music, and projection screens show animations that get patrons in the party mood. Despite the fact that it’s open every night, Kasette is usually crowded. When the action on the dance floor gets too much, there are always pillows along the side of this alley, where people like to relax and chat, away from the thumping music. Due to its location and aesthetic, the club draws a trendy crowd that likes to flaunt its cool credentials. Being open every night of the week, Kasette also pulls in students and regular party-goers, ensuring a lively vibe.

Balkon

Balkon (Şehbender sk. 5, Kat 6 Asmalı Mescid, Beyoğlu, Istanbul) – this is a popular bar by virtue of its panoramic view of the city (including its river). Sit on a high bar stool and watch the sunset while sipping your beer and snacking on pistachios and nuts. The bar also offers food, but most patrons come to drink. It’s the perfect spot for happy hour with reasonable prices and casual atmosphere.