Things to Do in Istanbul at Christmas

Istanbul transforms at Christmas, with 360+ seasonal events, festive markets, shows and experiences that make the city one of the best places in Europe to experience the holiday season. The city's Christmas calendar runs from late November through to the New Year, filling every weekend with markets, ice rinks, theatrical performances, festive dining experiences and family-friendly events that bring locals and visitors together. Istanbul's Christmas lights are legendary, its seasonal food and drink scenes flourish, and the city's cultural institutions stage their most spectacular annual programmes. Seasonal highlights include "Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour: Taste of Istanbul" and "Cosmopolitan Kurtuluş: Istanbul’s Neighborhood of Taste". Plan your Christmas visit to Istanbul early — the best events and restaurants book up fast.