Istanbul Budget Hotels, Hostels, Apartments and B&B's

Though 99% of Turkey is Muslim, this has not stopped the alcohol from flowing freely in the ample offer of bars in this progressive city. Beyoglu is Istanbul's bar central, with a growing number of drinking holes catering to thirsty clients. For cheap drinks try taverns or meyhanes in the Fish Market (Blik Pasaj). Sit outside at the patio bars on the side streets of Istiklal Caddesi. Asmalimescit is a neighbourhood with little bohemian bars popping up left and right. Tunel, Ortakoy, Bosphorus offer bars ranging from cheap and unassuming to upmarket with a dress code. Don’t miss out on live music in Istanbul- there is jazz, rock, pop and of course modern and traditional Turkish on offer. You'll find raki, Turkey’s anise flavoured beverage at most bars which is worth sampling. For more information on daily music listings, check the Turkish Daily News, an English speaking newspaper. The drinking age is 18 and bars tend to close from between midnight to 2AM. For later nights out, you’ll have to move on to Istanbul’s club scene!