360 Istanbul

360 Istanbul occupies the top floor of the Mısır Apartment, a historic building on İstiklal Avenue in Beyoğlu, and it has been one of the city's best-known rooftop venues for many years. As the name suggests, the big draw is the all-round view, which takes in the rooftops of Beyoğlu, the Golden Horn, the domes and minarets of the historic peninsula and the Bosphorus stretching away towards the Asian side.

The venue describes its concept as built on four elements: food, atmosphere, entertainment and ambiance. During the day and early evening it works as a restaurant, serving a menu of international and modern Turkish dishes, with a wine list and a full bar. The restaurant is open every day from 12:00 to midnight, so it is also an option for lunch with a view.

Later in the evening the tables give way to a club, which runs from 23:00 to 04:00 on club nights, with DJs, international artists and live shows. The atmosphere changes completely, from a relaxed restaurant to a busy, high-energy night out, so decide in advance which side of 360 you are coming for. Check the website or social media for the current programme, and make a reservation for dinner or a table on busy nights.

The best time for most visitors is around sunset, when you can watch the light change over the old city from the terrace with a drink in hand, then stay for dinner. Book a table by the windows or on the terrace if you are eating. Dress smartly for the evening, particularly if you plan to stay on for the club. Prices reflect the location and the view. İstiklal is busy late into the night, especially at weekends, so getting home is straightforward, with taxis easy to find around Taksim Square, a ten-minute walk up the avenue.

360 Istanbul suits couples, groups of friends and anyone wanting a classic Beyoğlu night out with a panorama. The entrance is on İstiklal itself: look for the Mısır Apartment doorway at number 163 and take the lift to the top floor. Galatasaray, Taksim and Tünel are all within walking distance along the avenue, and the bars and meyhanes of Asmalımescit and Nevizade are close by for a drink before or after.