Best 9 Rooftop Restaurants in Istanbul

Did you know that Istanbul is the only city in the world located on two continents? 

There’s no better way to appreciate this unique geography than from one of Istanbul’s stunning rooftop restaurants! While Istanbul is a city offering rooftop venues on every corner, below I’ve created a list of the BEST ones, according to my experience and research, locals’ recommendations, and customer reviews.

So these are the TOP impressive rooftop restaurants in Istanbul with the highest ratings and best experience. Join me in exploring them and let me find the best fit for you! You’ll not only have breathtaking views of Istanbul there but you’ll also enjoy the exceptional cuisine.

1. Luxury Rooftop Fine Dining in istanbul

Let me tell you my recommendations for Istanbul’s most spectacular high-end rooftop restaurants. 

Mikla Restaurant –
Award-winning contemporary Turkish cuisine

Location & View – Located in Beyoglu, on the 18th floor of the Marmara Pera Hotel, this place offers a 360-degree incredible view of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and the Old City. 

Food & Cuisine: What makes Mikla special is its “New Anatolian Kitchen” concept.
Opened in 2005, the famous Chef Mehmet Gürs has created a unique mix of modern and ancient Anatolian cooking techniques. This special mixture has earned the restaurant a spot in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. If you visit it, you’ll also confirm why it is a Michelin-starred restaurant and one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.
The wine selection is also a must if you want to taste some of the best local Turkish wines.

• Location: on the upper floors of The Marmara Pera Hotel in Beyoğlu –  
  Asmalı Mescit, The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:15, 34430 Beyoğlu
• Known for: contemporary Turkish cuisine with chef Chef Mehmet Gürs
• Views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and Old City
• Michelin-starred restaurant
• Cuisine: Contemporary Turkish
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, closed on Sundays.Restaurant – 6:00 PM – 00:00 (last food order at 10:00 PM). Bar – 6:00 PM to 02:00 AM

360 Istanbul – International fusion cuisine with panoramic Bosphorus view

Location & View – Located in a historical 19th-century apartment building in Beyoğlu, you can sit here and watch how this place transforms from a sophisticated dinner spot to a vibrant nightlife venue. The space is circular and glass-enclosed, so as you already guessed it, it offers 360-degree views of Istanbul.

Food & Cuisine: What sets 360 Istanbul apart is its fusion menu – think Turkish meets Mediterranean meets Asian. Don’t miss also their cocktails, especially when you have the opportunity to enjoy your drink against the backdrop of the sunset over the Bosphorus.

• Location: on the top floor of a historic building in Beyoğlu district –  
  Tomtom Mah. İstiklal Cad. No:163 K: 8, 34433 Beyoğlu
• Known for: both its dining experience and evening atmosphere
• Panoramic views of the city from its circular dining room
• Cuisine: Fusion
• Opening hours: Every day Mon – Sun. Restaurant – 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM. Bar – 11:00 PM to 04:00 AM

Nicole Restaurant –
Seasonal menu and wine pairing for special occasions

Location & View – Located on the top floor of a building from 1901, now Tomtom Suites ( an SLH Hotel ) – this place is my go-to for special occasions. It has a magical view of the Golden Horn and historic peninsula, especially during sunset.

Food & Cuisine: What makes Nicole unique is that the tasting menu changes seasonally. They also have a wine pairing program with carefully curated Turkish wines you should definitely taste!

• Location: on the top floor of Tomtom Suites in Beyoğlu –  
   Tomtom, Tomtom Kaptan Sk. No:18, 34433 Beyoğlu
• Known for: wine pairing – its special selection of wines featuring Turkish wines
• Views of the Golden Horn and historic peninsula
• Michelin-starred restaurant
• Cuisine: Traditional Turkish and Contemporary
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays.Restaurant – 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM

Essential Tips for Visiting Istanbul’s Top Luxury Rooftop Restaurants:

• Book in advance – 3-4 weeks for weekend dinners in high summer season or 1-2 weeks off-season
• Outdoor seating often requires extra advance notice
• Bring a light extra layer – AC can be strong indoors and outdoors could be windy
• Dress code: Smart elegant (no shorts, flip-flops, or sportswear) to avoid turn-aways
• Payment and Tipping: All accept major credit cards. Standard tip is 10-15%
• Language: All have English-speaking staff and menus available in English

2. Best Value Rooftop Restaurants in istanbul

Now, let me tell you about some excellent rooftop restaurants in Istanbul that combine traditional Turkish cuisine with spectacular views at more affordable prices.
Here are my top picks for best-value rooftop experiences in Istanbul:

Seven Hills Restaurant

Location & View: A few steps away from Sultanahmet Square and Hagia Sophia, on the rooftop of a boutique hotel, Seven Hills offers some of the most Instagram-worthy views you’ll find in the city. You’ll be surrounded by Istanbul’s iconic landmarks – the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The terrace has a 180-degree panorama of the historic peninsula, with the Marmara Sea as a backdrop.

Food & Cuisine: Seven Hills is well-known for its fresh seafood, but also their Turkish breakfast spread is a must. Their menu highlights include grilled sea bass, traditional pide varieties, and authentic Ottoman recipes passed down through generations. My pro tip: order the grilled sea bass if you visit for lunch or dinner. It’s simple but perfectly cooked, and pairs beautifully with the view.

• Location: at the roof top of the Seven Hills Hotel, in the heart of the Sultanahmet area
  Cankurtaran, Tevkifhane Sk. No:8 Kat:3, 34122 Fatih
• Known for: Best views of Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia and fresh seafood
• Cuisine: Traditional Turkish with a focus on seafood
• Views: Historic peninsula, Marmara Sea
• Perfect for: Lunch and sunset dining
• Price range: Moderate
• Opening hours: every day 8:30 AM – 11 PM

Roof Mezze 360

Location & View: Situated on the rooftop of a hotel with a prime center location, this rooftop venue offers magical views from the Golden Horn to the Bosphorus Bridge. The views, service, and quality of food here are all top-notch.

Food & Cuisine: Specialized in Turkish meze and traditional Anatolian dishes. Their extensive meze selection features both cold and hot appetizers, with standout dishes including hummus and fresh salads.

• Location: in the Seres Hotel, near Sultanahmet and the historic city center
  Hoca Paşa, Seres old city hotel, Hüdavendigar Cd. No:25, 34420 Fatih
• Known for: Extensive meze selection and generous portions
• Cuisine:  Mediterranean, Turkish traditional
• Views: Golden Horn and Bosphorus
• Atmosphere: Casual and welcoming
• Price range: Moderate to affordable
• Opening hours: every day, 1 PM – 11 PM

360 Panorama Restaurant

Location & View: Located also in the historic city center of Istanbul, at this place you’ll be surrounded by landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Food & Cuisine: Serves Turkish classics with contemporary presentations. The menu features a mix of traditional kebabs, seafood, and local specialties. Their house-made desserts, especially the baklava, are a must.

• Location: in the And Hotel, in the heart of the Old City of Istanbul
   alemdar mahallesi yerebatan caddesi no :18, Yerebatan Cd. no:18, 34110 Fatih
• Known for: Panoramic views of Istanbul’s landmarks, local atmosphere, Turkish classic dishes
• Cuisine: Modern Turkish and contemporary
• Views: Hagia Sophia and Old City landmarks
• Perfect for: Casual dining and group meals
• Price range: Moderate
• Opening hours: every day, 11 AM – 1 AM

Essential Tips for These Venues:

• Best time to visit: Arrive early for a late lunch (3 PM) for fewer crowds. These spots don’t always require reservations, but getting there early could ensure you’d catch the best seats with the panoramic views.
• Reservations recommended for sunset hours
• Dress code: Smart casual. Unlike high-end rooftops, these spots are more relaxed, so you can dress comfortably without worrying about a formal outfit.
• Outdoor seating subject to weather conditions
• All accept credit cards
• English menus available

3. Best Budget-Friendly Rooftop Restaurants in Istanbul – what locals recommend

Here are some of Istanbul’s best rooftop spots if you want something on a budget. This is where locals enjoy great views and food at reasonable prices.

Rooftop views and low prices don’t match, so don’t expect to be cheap there. However, compared to other venues with similar locations, the prices here are good and affordable.

Balkon Restaurant & Bar

Location & View: Located in Hotel Fresia in Beyoğlu, Balkon offers beautiful views of the Bosphorus strait and city skyline from its cozy terrace. The setting is perfect for watching the sunset over Istanbul’s European side.

Food & Cuisine: The menu features a nice mix of international and Turkish dishes at reasonable prices. Their cocktails are well-crafted and the playlist also creates a nice vibe. It’s a place where good food meets great atmosphere without the luxury price tag.

• Location: Hotel Fresia Istanbul,
   Asmalı Mescit, Şehbender Sk. No:5 D:M, 34430 Beyoğlu
• Known for: City views, custom cocktails, live music
• Cuisine: International with Turkish influences
• Views: Bosphorus strait and city panorama
• Perfect for: Group gatherings and evening drinks
• Price range: Budget-friendly considering the location
• Atmosphere: Vibrant and welcoming
• Opening hours: Every day, 1 PM – 1:30 AM

Nova Santiye Cafe

Location & View: Located near the famous Süleymaniye Mosque, Nova Santiye has a rooftop terrace on the 4th floor. It gives you a beautiful panorama of the city with multiple mosque domes, the Golden Horn, and parts of the Bosphorus.

On the 3rd floor, they have a separate Instagram photo shooting area where you can take pictures in a Turkish setup with local clothes they provide or with your own. It costs around USD 25-30 per person, but you’re free to choose if you want this extra or just to go to the regular terrace that offers equally stunning backdrops for your photos.

Food & Cuisine: They serve simple Turkish dishes like local breakfast and pide (Turkish pizza) at reasonable prices. While the menu isn’t extensive, the food is tasty and the portions are good. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing meal or light snack while enjoying the view.

• Location:  Süleymaniye, Siyavuş Paşa Sk. No: 24, 34116 Fatih
• Cuisine: Traditional Turkish cafe fare
• Views: Golden Horn, historic mosques, Bosphorus view
• Perfect for: Breakfast, light meals, and Turkish tea time
• Price range: Budget-friendly
• Opening hours: Every day, 8 AM – 1 AM
• Additional: Popular photo spot with traditional costume rental option (extra fee around $25-30 pp)

View from Bey Kapısı Cafe Restaurant, Istanbul

Bey Kapısı Cafe & Restaurant

Location & View: Nestled in the historic Fatih district, this hidden gem is another affordable option when looking for stunning views. The place combines traditional Turkish decor with a modern interior, so you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere that feels both authentic and welcoming.

Food & Cuisine: What makes this place special – is that the owner often handles personally everything from cooking to service. The food is freshly prepared to order, featuring traditional Turkish dishes. The cafe also offers shisha service if you prefer to relax with a traditional water pipe.

• Location:  Demirtaş, Kepenekçi Sabunhanesi Sk. No:15/B, 34134 Fatih
• Known for: Personal service, authentic atmosphere
• Cuisine: Traditional Turkish
• Views: Historic peninsula and Bosphorus
• Perfect for: Relaxed meals and shisha
• Price range: Budget-friendly
• Opening hours: Every day, 10 AM – 12 AM
• Additional: vegetarian options upon request (i.e. ask the owner)

Bey Kapısı Cafe Restaurant, Istanbul

My final suggestion to you:
No matter which of those rooftop places you choose, don’t get so caught up in photos that you forget to enjoy the moment, your food or drink, and the views.

Remember, while prices at these places are above the regular, you’re paying for more than just food – but for an unforgettable Istanbul experience. And you’ll see that it’s worth it.