In recent times, Turkey has become one of the most visited countries in the world because of its diversity in landscape, its cultural denotations, art, among others. Turkey is really a captivating place not just for honeymooners but culture lovers and globetrotters. While Istanbul is a great place to experience its culture, Capadocia will make you fall in love with its landscapes. Even the weather in Turkey during the new year is just perfect to plan a trip. The budget required for going to this country is also on the affordable side and hence, spending your New Year in Turkey is not something unattainable.
10 Places To Celebrate New Year In Turkey
People have different outlooks towards life, and how they wish to spend New Year depends entirely on their palate and mood. From a good night of clubbing to sitting by the fire under the starry sky. But don’t you worry, Turkey offers everything that you might have in mind in order to make your New Year the most memorable one! So without any further ado, let us look into the various options for celebrating New Year holiday in Turkey.
- Istanbul City
- Bosphorus
- Downtown Istanbul
- Ankara
- Antalya
- Turkish House Party
- Cappadocia
- Bodrum
- Belek
- Marmaris
1. Istanbul City
Istanbul is one of the best places in Turkey for visiting on a vacation. Dreamy embellishments and lights evoke the festive spirit of locals and travelers during New Year in Istanbul. The city has some fantastic options for high dining which have menus dedicated to the jingle in the air. A great tip would be to get a pre-booking done as the crowd on New Year’s Eve in Turkey is overwhelming sometimes.
Another unforgettable experience that is highly recommended on New Year in Istanbul is to take a cruise on the waterway that demarcates Europe from Asia. You can spend your New Year’s dinner in Turkey right on this cruise under the stunning fireworks. You can also spend a few days and nights on this cruise and enjoy all the islands nearby.
Where To Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul, Nomade Old City Hotel, Fer Hotel
How To Reach: Ataturk International Airport is the main airport in Istanbul and is well connected to other cities in the world.
Also Read: Turkey Travel Tips
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2. Bosphorus
One of the most beautiful places to spend New Year in Turkey is Bosphorus in Istanbul. From arcades to restaurants with the water route divulging right by the side of the deck, spending the evening in Bosphorus will make up for all the stress that has been piling up through the year. Book a table at any of the restaurants under the open-air seating arrangement and watch the fireworks put up a magical show as the clock strikes 12. Good food, music, dancing, drinks and a vibe to kill for, get your loved ones together and make the most of your time there.
A beautiful rendition of what can be called ‘heaven in a nutshell’ is what this place stands for. Visit the iconic Bosphorus Bridge to get a spectacular view of the glittering Turkish skyline. Take your partner there and see the fireworks adding sparks in your life as well.
Where To Stay: Taslihan Restaurant And Butik Hotel, The Grand Tarabya Hotel, Riva Hotel Rhebas
How To Reach: Bosphorus strait can be reached through metro or ferry from three surrounding cities – Istanbul, Kabatas and Begiktas
3. Downtown Istanbul
Downtown Istanbul offers so many options options that one can be generously spoilt for choice! From its classic concert venue at Babylon Bomonti to a rocking night at Dorock XL, the place has something for everyone. Spend New Year’s Eve in Turkey like you are 20 again, or you can opt for a nice dinner at a hotel in the area.
If none of these suit your taste, take a walk along the local Turkish markets and flea markets during this time and watch the world pass by in the buzz of the new year. There are numerous private parties that you can check out as well. Or, you can simply bunk in your hotel room and enjoy a quiet, celebratory dinner with your spouse and family. Needless to say, the city has something to suit every palate.
Where To Stay: Goldsborough Place Apartments, Number 12, Ellie’s Guest House
How To Reach: Ataturk International Airport is the main airport in Istanbul and is well connected to other cities in the world.
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4. Ankara
The capital, Ankara, is one of the best place to celebrate New Year in Turkey. And for the new year to set in, this city decks up in lights just as much as the rest of the country. Ankara’s vibe has an uncanny resemblance with the quiet side of the New Year celebrations. Apart from the good food and drinks that you get all over the city, one can actually spend the time, Turkey style with the locals in a place called Kizilay.
There are a variety of things to do in Ankara for a good travel experience in Turkey. Take a walk along the sultry neighborhood and just go with the flow. The New Year’s Day in Turkey is another beautiful day that unfolds as the party goes on into the wee hours of the night. As Ankara is the capital of Turkey, you can expect quite a lot at this major city, including a spellbinding nightlife.
Where To Stay: Hotel Ferah, Otel Sema, Divan Cukurhan Otel
How To Reach: Ankara can be reached from the Ankara Esenboga Airport. And being located in the centre of Turkey, it can also be reached via Turkish Rail Network from other cities including Istanbul.
5. Antalya
When in Turkey, Antalya should be the first choice to spend the New Year because of its calm and enticing beauty. There are numerous exciting things to do in Antalya, especially during New Year. With the mountains on one side and the sea meandering on the other, New Year in Turkey is given a whole new definition at this place. If you want to spend the time admiring the surreal sky, go for it. If you are one who is looking to go partying, that too is available.
The place decks up beautifully in its best accessories and welcomes New Year with wide open arms. Spend one of the most memorable New Years of your life here in Turkey. With the Turkish New Year date coinciding with that of the global calendar, the fun is multiplied 10 times! So get down to business now and plan for this trip that comes with just enough fun for a happening new year.
Where To Stay: Elipse Royal Hotel, Ahsen Hotel, Best Western Plus Khan Hotel
How To Reach: The best way to reach Antalya from other parts of Islanbul is by road which is served and the main bus station in the city is Yeni Garaj. Antalya Internation Airport is the airport the city but due to absence of direct flights, you can reach Antalya via Istanbul or Konya.
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6. Turkish House Party
If you are a guest in a country, the best way to soak in the essence of the place is to make friends with locals. If you know somebody who belongs to Turkey, befriend them and ask them to show you around. Watching a country through their eyes is probably the best thing one can experience. A house party will definitely have some Turkish New Year traditions, something that cannot be found in posh club parties.
A house party also means you will get to know a typical lifestyle much closer than usual. Spending a beautiful and happy New Year in Turkey might just be what you need right now! Explore, learn and usher in this year with the best company, food, drink, and experience! Have a happy new year in Turkey! This is one of the best ways of getting introduced to the lavish Tukirsh cuisine.
Where To Stay: NA
How To Reach: You can reach Turkey from India by taking a flight to the Atatürk Airport in Istanbul
7. Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a magical region located in the Central Turkey. There are several historical caves in Turkey and this place has some of the most popular ones. It is popular for its cluster of striking rock formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’. Cappadosia is an year-round destination offers one-of-a-kind experience to its guests, especially on occassions like New Year and Christmas in Turkey. A stay at any of the Cappadocian resort to enjoy luxury and witness the glory of this snow season. Dine at the cave chapel and taste vivid Cappadocian wines. Cappadocia is the best place to celebrate New Year in Turkey, owing to the unique experiences offered here.
Where To Stay: Crystal Kaymakli Hotel & Spa, Gamirasu Cave Hotel, Perimasali Cave Hotel
How To Reach: From India, you will have to take a flight to Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) and the a flight to Kayseri Erkilet Airport. From this airport, Cappadocia region center is just an hour drive away.
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8. Bodrum
Located on the Bodrum Peninsula, this city known for its twin bays that offer mesmerising views of Bodrum Castle. Bodrum is a great place to spend your New Year in Turkey. There are several bars and bar streets to enjoy the eve and party with your companions. You can also witness some fireworks here. Another interesting thing to look forward to in Bodrum is tasting the traditional Turkish food and music. One of the best travel tips to Turkey is to explore as many off-beat places as possible.
Where To Stay: Hotel Can Bodrum, Su Hotel Bodrum, Artunc Hotel Bodrum
How To Reach: Bodrum can be reached by taking a flight to the Bodrum-Milas Airport in the city. Regular buses connect Bodrum to other cities of Turkey. Ferryboats run from Cos and Rhodes to Bodrum.
9. Belek
Belek, a resort town in the southern Mediterranean coast of Turkey is known for its golf courses, thermal spas and beaches. This is a great place to have a relaxed New Year. There are several resort parties and voyage parties held on New Year’s Eve in Belek. These glam parties have live music performances, amazing food, fun rides and more.
Where To Stay: Belek Altos Otel, Cornelia Diamond Gold Resort & Spa, Ceres Hotel
How To Reach: The best way to reach Belek is from Antalya International Airport. A 30-minutes drive from here will bring you to Belek.
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10. Marmaris
Marmaris is one of the best places in Turkey to enjoy nightlife. And when New Year is the occossion, then this resort town will not disappoint you at all. The pristine beach attracts visitor for relaxed environment. But there streets lined with bars and restaurants for the night-owls. Party into the New Year at any of these nightlife places and make the best of your time in Turkey. Here you can also indulge some of the most popular watersports in Turkey.
Where To Stay: City Hotel Marmaris, Club Viva Hotel, Pasabey Hotel
How To Reach: Dalaman International Airport is the nearest aiport to Marmaris. From here you can reach Marmaris by road on a bus, minibus or rented car
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New Year in Turkey sees exciting celebrations, and every year people look for a variety of ways to usher in the good times. Tourism spikes, especially during this time of the year as spending New Year in an international destination is a dream that we nurture. So, plan your trip to Turkey and spend new year with unlimited fun!
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Frequently Asked Questions About New Year In Turkey
What are the Turkish new year traditions?
New Year Traditions in Turkey are similar to Christmas traditions around the world. There is imagery Santa Claus and the trees are decorated with fairy lights. The exchange of gifts also takes place. Another new year tradition in Turkey is buying the lottery tickets and watching the Lottery show that is broadcast at midnight of New Year in Turkey.
Where can I celebrate New Year’s Eve in Turkey?
Some of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Turkey include:
1. Istanbul – Nardis Jazz Club, Masquerade Club, Ritim
2. Ankara – Vibclubankara, Havana Club, D’lux Ankara
3. Antalya – Soho Club Antalya, Gaga Clubs Antalya
What can I do for New Year’s Eve in Turkey?
Here are the best things to do on New Year’s Eve in Turkey:
1. Watch NY Eve fireworks in different parts of the country
2. Enjoy a New Year’s Eve meal at a restaurant in Istanbul
3. Go on Bosphorus NY dinner cruise
4. Attend NY party at bars and clubs in Turkey
5. Do not miss the chance if you are invited to a Turkish New Year meal
What can couples do on New Year’s Eve in Turkey?
Here are some of the most romantic experiences for couples in Turkey on New Year’s Eve:
1. A romantic cruise dinner on Bosphorus strait
2. A candle-light dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Istanbul
3. Watching the New Year’s Eve fireworks at Bosphorus
How do you spend New Year’s Eve alone in Turkey?
Some of the best ways to spend New Year’s Eve alone in Turkey are:
1. Attending the New Year’s Eve parties at any of the nightclubs and bars. The crowd won’t make you feel alone
2. Heading to any of the resort towns in Turkey to experience the luxury and traditional NY celebrations
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