Istanbul Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus in Sultanahmet and Taksim

If you’re planning a night out in Istanbul and want to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife without the hassle of organizing transport or finding the best spots, this pub crawl might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally done this tour, based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it seems like a lively, well-organized way to dive into Istanbul’s night scene.

What we love about this experience is how inclusive and fun it appears to be—especially since it’s run by an all-women team that takes care of all the planning. The addition of a party bus sounds like a highlight, giving the night a real party vibe while making the transitions between bars seamless. Also, the promise of VIP access and free drinks, bundled into a reasonable price point, makes it stand out from many other pub crawls.

One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention the drinks at venues aren’t always free, and the party bus might not be everyone’s favorite feature—some found it less exciting than expected. For those who love a good group atmosphere, dancing, and discovering local nightlife with some new friends, this tour seems tailored for you.

This pub crawl seems best suited for solo travelers, groups of friends, or anyone looking to meet new people while soaking up Istanbul’s legendary nightlife. It’s a flexible option for a memorable night out, especially if you’re comfortable with a lively, party-centric vibe.

Key Points

• All-Women Led: Organized by a friendly, energetic female team that keeps the vibe inclusive and fun.
• Convenient Transportation: The party bus adds a dynamic element, making bar-hopping easier and more festive.
• VIP & Free Drinks: Enjoy VIP access and complimentary shots at some stops, though drinks aren’t free everywhere.
• Varied Nightlife Experience: From Sultanahmet to Taksim, you’ll visit some of the most popular and highly-rated clubs and bars.
• Group Energy: Often praised for the lively, friendly atmosphere with diverse attendees.
• Cost-Effective: Around $30 for about 7 hours of fun, including access and some drinks—good value for a night out.

What to Expect from the Tour

This pub crawl kicks off in Sultanahmet—a neighborhood famed for its historic sites but surprisingly lively at night. The meeting point is just 5 minutes from the Blue Mosque, making it easy if you’re staying nearby. Starting around 9 pm, the tour begins with mingling at a cozy bar called Just Bar. Here, you’re introduced to your fellow party-goers, and the hosts get everyone warmed up with some drinking games. Think of it as the icebreaker before the night really kicks off.

The first highlight is the party bus—a feature many reviews mention as a real treat. It’s not just transportation; it becomes a moving dance floor, complete with music and a lively crowd. During the ride, you’ll probably find yourself taking tequila or raki shots, adding a hearty start to the night. The bus whisks you from Sultanahmet to Taksim, the heart of Istanbul’s nightlife scene.

Once in Taksim, the group hits up three top-rated clubs and bars. These venues are popular with both locals and international visitors, especially Erasmus students and backpackers. The venues are chosen for their vibrant atmosphere, great music, and location. You’ll get VIP access, meaning shorter waits and a more exclusive experience. The tours typically last about five hours in Taksim, giving plenty of time to dance, chat, and soak up the atmosphere.

Throughout the night, the hosts keep the energy high, encouraging participation with games and ensuring everyone feels included. Several reviews mention how friendly and involved the organizers are, making the experience even more enjoyable. The tour wraps up in the last club, where you can continue your night or make your way back to your accommodation.

The Value of the Experience

At around $30, this pub crawl offers a lot for the price. It includes VIP access, some free drinks at the start, and the transportation—something that can otherwise be a headache to organize on your own. The reviews highlight how much fun people had, from making new friends to dancing the night away. People frequently mention the lively guides, friendly atmosphere, and well-planned stops, all contributing to a night that feels both safe and spontaneous.

Some reviews note that drinks at the venues are paid for separately, which is typical, but the initial inclusions and VIP treatment help set the tone. One traveler mentioned the drinks being mostly juice with only a drop of alcohol, but most found the experience more about the social aspect rather than the drinks themselves.

The tour’s popularity and high rating—5 out of 5 based on over 1,500 reviews—speak to its reliability and consistency. Many travelers say it’s the best way to experience Istanbul’s nightlife, especially if they’re new to the city or traveling solo.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Just Bar in Sultanahmet

The evening begins with a meet and greet at Just Bar, conveniently located close to Sultanahmet’s iconic sights. It’s an easy starting point if you’re exploring the area during the day. Here, you’ll meet your guides and fellow travelers, setting a relaxed tone for the night ahead. Expect to play some initial drinking games—great for breaking the ice and energizing everyone.

This first stop lasts about 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to chat, enjoy a few drinks, and get to know your new friends. The hosts are praised for their involvement and making sure everyone feels comfortable from the outset.

The Party Bus Experience

At around 11 pm, the group moves onto the party bus, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. This isn’t just transportation; it’s a moving party where everyone is encouraged to dance, sing along, and have fun. Shots of tequila or raki are consumed on the way, energizing everyone for the night ahead.

The bus ride lasts roughly 30-40 minutes, making the transition from Sultanahmet to Taksim smooth and lively. Some reviews mention the bus being a bit different—sometimes split into three vans—which might affect the communal vibe, but overall, it’s considered a fun part of the evening.

Taksim Clubs and Bars

In Taksim, the heart of Istanbul’s nightlife, the group visits three different clubs. These venues are popular for their music, atmosphere, and diverse crowd. They’re known to host both local and international students, especially during Erasmus or hostel parties.

The organized VIP access means less waiting and more time to dance or relax. The tour lasts about five hours here, giving ample opportunity to explore, meet people, and enjoy the clubs’ unique vibes. Several reviews mention that some venues are more crowded or lively than others, but the overall consensus is that you’ll have a blast.

Ending the Night

The pub crawl wraps up in the last club, often around 2-3 am, though the exact timing varies. From here, you’re free to stay out longer, head back to your accommodation, or grab a late-night snack. Many reviews note that the guides are attentive, ensuring everyone gets home safely, which adds peace of mind, especially for solo travelers or those unfamiliar with the city.

What People Are Saying

Readers’ reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. Many rave about the friendly guides, who are described as super involved, energetic, and dedicated. They seem to go out of their way to make sure everyone feels included, which adds to the positive atmosphere.

The group dynamic is often highlighted—people from different countries, ages, and backgrounds come together for a night of fun. A recurring theme is how many travelers managed to make lasting connections, which is a big plus if you’re looking for more than just a night out.

Some criticisms are worth noting. A few travelers found the drinks at the venues weren’t free and thought the overall price was slightly high. One reviewer mentioned the drinks being mostly juice, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting free drinks throughout. The party bus experience also received mixed reviews, with some finding it less exciting than expected.

But even among the skeptics, most agree that the overall experience—meeting new people, visiting lively clubs, and having fun in a safe, organized environment—is well worth the price.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys socializing, dancing, and discovering the pulse of Istanbul’s nightlife with a friendly group, this pub crawl is probably a great fit. It’s especially suitable for solo travelers or small groups looking to meet new friends and experience nightlife in a lively, organized setting.

The tour’s inclusive vibe, combined with VIP access and lively guides, makes for a memorable night that you’re likely to remember long after. That said, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more intimate, less structured nights, you might find some aspects a bit too crowded or commercial.

This experience offers good value and a chance to see Istanbul from a fresh perspective—through the lens of its vibrant nightlife—and with plenty of fun moments along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting new friends and enjoying the night even if they arrived alone. The friendly guides and group activities help break the ice.

Are drinks included throughout the night?
Not entirely. The tour offers some free shots at the beginning and VIP access, but drinks at the clubs are paid separately. Be prepared for additional expenses if you want more drinks.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, starting at 9 pm and ending in Taksim’s last club, usually around 2-3 am.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers are young or in their twenties and thirties, the main focus is on nightlife, which is best suited for adults of legal drinking age.

What’s the transportation like?
A lively party bus takes you from Sultanahmet to Taksim. Some reviews mention the bus being split into multiple vans, which might affect the group cohesion.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

Are the venues safe and reliable?
Based on the reviews and high ratings, the venues are well-chosen and safe, with the guides making sure everyone feels secure.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 8 days ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak times.

This pub crawl can be a fantastic way to dive into Istanbul’s nightlife with minimal fuss, especially if you’re eager to meet people and dance the night away. The lively guides, multiple clubs, and party bus combine to make it a memorable experience—just be prepared for some extra drinks and an energetic crowd.