Upperist, the rooftop bar at The Marmara Taksim, sits on the 20th floor directly above Taksim Square with a commanding 360-degree view of Istanbul. The venue opened in summer 2023 and quickly became one of Beyoğlu’s most popular rooftop destinations, drawing locals and travelers alike for its striking panorama and nightly DJ sets. Cocktails are the focus, complemented by light bites and sushi, while the open-air terrace—furnished with low seating, plush sofas, and standing bar areas—provides multiple perspectives of the city and Bosphorus from every corner.
Sunset times bring the highest energy and most animated crowds, as the city transforms from daylight to darkness. The venue evolves through the evening: early hours feature relaxed lounge and chillout music, while later sets shift to more energetic house rhythms as the club side activates. After 11 PM, available seating becomes scarce and the venue takes on a standing-room nightclub character, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays.
Quick Facts
| Turkish name | Upperist |
|---|---|
| Address | Gümüşsuyu, Osmanlı Sk. No:1, The Marmara Taksim, 34437 Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
| District | Beyoğlu |
| Metro | Taksim (M2, Direct access; hotel entrance at Taksim Square) |
| Type | Rooftop bar |
| Best time to visit | Late May through early October is ideal, when weather is warm and dry and sunset occurs late (after 20:00), allowing comfortable outdoor time. Summer evenings are warmest and most crowded. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. Winter (November–March) is cool; the terrace is windy and less comfortable for lingering, though the views are still dramatic. Sunset time varies from roughly 17:30 (winter) to 21:00 (summer). Weekdays are quieter and better for conversation; Friday and Saturday are more energetic and dense. Arriving before 20:00 on any day secures better seating. |
| Recommended duration | 2–3 hours |
| Music | House, lounge, deep house, DJ-led |
| Entry and dress code | No cover charge on weekdays. On Friday and Saturday, entry policies depend on crowd levels. Dress code is smart casual; no beachwear or very casual sportswear. Minimum age is typically 18. Reservations recommended for groups on weekend evenings but not required for individual visitors on weekdays. |
| Reservations | Reservations can be made by phone (+90 534 575 31 75) or through the official website. Walk-ins welcome on weekdays and earlier hours; during peak weekend evenings (after 11 PM), tables fill quickly and standing room becomes primary. Arriving before 19:30 advisable for sunset views and seating. |
| Website | upperist.com.tr |
| Operating status confirmed | October 2026 |
Why Visit Upperist?
The primary draw is the unobstructed 360-degree city view—from this height, you see the Bosphorus to the north, the Galata Tower and Golden Horn to the west, the Historic Peninsula’s mosques and minarets to the south, and the modern Asian skyline to the east. The terrace layout allows every guest a sightline without pressing against crowds. Sunset observation from a rooftop with a DJ and cocktail in hand is a defining Istanbul evening experience.
The venue appeals equally to those seeking a quiet early-evening drink and those looking for late-night dancing. Unlike many rooftop bars, Upperist has thoughtful service and well-made cocktails rather than tourist-trap pricing alone. The Taksim Square location puts you steps from Istanbul’s main nightlife, dining, and transit hub, so the evening can extend elsewhere.
Highlights of Upperist
The 360-Degree Panorama
From the 20th floor, every direction reveals a different Istanbul landmark. The Bosphorus fills the northern horizon with passing ferries and tankers; the Golden Horn curves to the west, framed by the Galata Tower; the Historic Peninsula's silhouette of domes and minarets (Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque) dominates the south and southeast; and the modern Anatolian skyline rises eastward. No column or wall blocks the view; the terrace is ringed by low railings and open-air sections. The vista is equally dramatic in daylight, dusk, darkness, and illuminated night.
Tip: Arrive 30–40 minutes before sunset (roughly 17:30 in winter, 20:30 in summer) to secure a comfortable seat on the terrace and watch the light change across the water and skyline.
Sunset Ritual and Early Evening Charm
From opening at 18:00 until around 21:00, the venue maintains a relaxed, lounge atmosphere with laid-back music—perfect for couples, small groups, and solo travelers seeking a peaceful drink with views. Comfortable seating is plentiful, the sofas are inviting, and the atmosphere is unhurried. This is the window for enjoying the transition from daylight to night without the density of a dance floor. The venue is quiet enough to have a conversation on the terrace.
Tip: Visit on a weekday evening if possible; weekends fill rapidly, and midweek sunset hours offer a more intimate experience with better table availability.
Cocktail Program and Signature Drinks
The bar emphasizes crafted cocktails made with quality spirits and fresh ingredients. House specialties use traditional bases (vodka, gin, rum) alongside contemporary techniques. While exact menu items change seasonally, cocktails are consistently well-executed. The bar accepts card payments and can accommodate most spirit and flavor preferences. Light bites and sushi platters pair with the drinks but are secondary to the beverage program.
Tip: Ask the bartender for recommendations tailored to your taste; customization is available, and the staff are knowledgeable about pairing drinks with the view.
DJ Sets and Live Music
Every night, DJs perform from an elevated booth overlooking the terrace. Early evening sets feature lounge, deep house, and ambient tracks—suitable for conversation. As the night advances (typically from 22:00 onward), tempo increases into full house and techno, and the venue transitions toward a club atmosphere. Guest DJs are regularly featured; event schedules appear on RA and BUGECE event platforms, and Upperist's Instagram account (@upper_ist) announces special performances.
Tip: Check the event calendar before visiting on a Friday or Saturday if you want to catch a known guest DJ; themed nights sometimes draw larger crowds.
Transition from Bar to Club After 11 PM
This is not a venue that maintains the same calm throughout the night. After approximately 23:00, especially on weekends, the seating area becomes standing-room only as the dance floor fills. The music volume increases, lighting shifts to nightclub mode, and the crowd changes to younger, more dance-oriented visitors. This transformation is intentional and reflects the dual nature of the venue: rooftop bar by sunset, nightclub by late night.
Tip: If you prefer a quieter evening, leave by 22:30; if you want to dance, arrive after 23:00 or be prepared for a mid-evening crowd shift.
Indoor Lounge and Smoking Room
While the terrace is the headline feature, the venue includes an interior lounge area with sofas and bar seating, plus a designated smoking room. Indoor sections offer shelter during cooler months and breaks from the terrace wind. The interior design is minimalist and modern, echoing the hotel's upscale aesthetic.
Tip: Interior areas are less crowded than the terrace early in the evening; useful if you prefer shelter, though views are limited indoors.
Hotel Amenities Access for Guests
Upperist is part of The Marmara Taksim—a five-star luxury hotel. Hotel guests have direct elevator access to the rooftop and can move freely between Upperist, the Raika restaurant (also on the 20th floor), and the rooftop pool area. Non-hotel guests access Upperist via the main hotel lobby and dedicated elevators. The hotel also houses other rooftop dining options (Okra Istanbul restaurant and bar), though Upperist is the primary rooftop cocktail and nightlife destination.
Tip: If you plan multiple visits or longer evenings, the hotel's spa, fitness center, and other restaurants are nearby; hotel guests can charge rooftop drinks to their room account.
Peak Crowd Times and Seating Strategy
Early evening (18:00–20:30) offers the most comfortable seating, quieter atmosphere, and easy access to the bar. From 21:00 onward, crowds increase; by 23:00 on weekends, seats are taken, and newcomers stand. The bar wraps around the terrace, so standing positions offer a social vibe and a view. Sofas near the center are typically reserved first; standing-room near the railings remains available longer.
Tip: Secure a sofa or corner table immediately upon arrival if arriving after 20:00; bar seating and standing railings are fallback options that offer views without the commitment of a table.
Atmosphere
The rooftop carries a distinctly upscale, cosmopolitan energy. On arrival, guests encounter a valet-style entrance (hotel lobby access), stylish interiors with suspended boat models and minimalist decor, and then emerge onto an expansive terrace furnished for comfort and sociability. The open-air terrace is both intimate and grand—sofas are clustered for small groups, high-top tables suit pairs, and the railings offer perches for solo visitors or standing groups. The view dominates the sensory experience; the city and Bosphorus are never absent, even in conversation.
Early evening (before 21:00) is relaxed and observant—visitors sip cocktails, watch the light fade, and speak in conversational tones. Music is present but not overwhelming. After sunset and especially after 22:00, the mood shifts. More standing visitors arrive, the music grows louder and faster, the bar area buzzes with ordering and movement, and a younger, more party-oriented crowd fills the spaces between the sofas. By late night (after midnight on weekends), it has the feel of a rooftop club: dense standing room, energetic music, raised voices, and dancing near the bar area.
Throughout, the terrace remains open to air and weather. Summer evenings are warm and breezy; winter nights are cool and require layers. The breeze from the Bosphorus is constant. Smoking is permitted in designated areas, and the mix of international visitors and local Istanbulites is evident in the languages and dress codes around the terrace.
History of Upperist
Upperist opened in summer 2023 on the 20th floor of The Marmara Taksim, an iconic luxury hotel that has occupied Taksim Square since the early 1970s. The venue was conceived as a rooftop bar and lounge to complement The Marmara’s existing restaurants and to capitalize on the unobstructed 360-degree views from the hotel’s height—one of the tallest buildings on the square.
The rooftop had been used for hotel amenities (spa, pool, event spaces) for decades, but the dedicated cocktail and nightlife venue Upperist represents a modern repositioning of that space. It arrived during a period of renewed energy in Beyoğlu’s nightlife and rooftop bar culture, joining a small cohort of high-end rooftop destinations in the district (most rooftop bars in Istanbul have obstructed or partial views due to neighboring buildings and elevation; Upperist’s height and position make it distinctive).
Since opening, Upperist has rapidly become one of the most photographed and visited rooftop venues in Istanbul, particularly among tourists and international visitors seeking an iconic sunset experience. The venue has hosted DJ events, private celebrations, and corporate functions. Its social media presence (Instagram: @upper_ist) reflects consistent popularity and event scheduling, indicating stable operations and ongoing development of the programming.
Entry, Tables and Reservations at Upperist
Reservations and Entry: Reservations can be made by phone (+90 534 575 31 75) or via the official website (upperist.com.tr). Walk-ins are welcome, especially on weekdays and before 20:00. On Friday and Saturday evenings, especially after 22:00, tables may be unavailable and entry depends on capacity; arriving earlier or calling ahead is advisable.
No Cover Charge: There is no cover charge for entry. Guests purchase food and drinks at the venue. Minimum spend expectations vary; a single cocktail is sufficient, but groups typically stay 2–3 hours or longer.
Dress Code: Smart casual is expected. No beachwear, very casual sportswear, or gym attire. Closed-toe shoes and neat presentation are typical. The environment is upscale but not formal; business casual or evening wear is appropriate.
Age Policy: Minimum age is 18; ID may be requested. The venue is not family-oriented after sunset.
Booking Info for Peak Times: Groups of 6 or more should call ahead to reserve seating. On weekend evenings, even individual reservations can help secure a sofa table if requested. Online booking availability is listed on the official site for specific dates; if a date is not available, calling the venue directly may offer alternatives (VIP tables, standing reservations, or waiting list options).
How to Get to Upperist
By Metro (fastest option): Take the M2 (red line) to Taksim Station. Exit at Taksim Square. The Marmara Taksim hotel is immediately visible on the south side of the square; enter the main lobby and take the elevators to Upperist (20th floor). Walking time from station exit to bar: 2 minutes.
By Tram: The historic tram (Tünel Tramvay) runs along İstiklal Avenue and stops at the Taksim end of the avenue. Walk west 100 meters across Taksim Square to The Marmara Hotel entrance.
By Bus: Numerous buses serve Taksim Square. Any bus to Taksim terminates at or near the square; exit at the Taksim terminal area and locate The Marmara Hotel.
By Taxi or Ride-Share: Give the driver the address: Gümüşsuyu, Osmanlı Sk. No:1, Beyoğlu, Istanbul (or say “The Marmara Hotel, Taksim”). The hotel entrance is on Osmanlı Sokak, facing the square. Drop-off can be at the main hotel entrance or the side entrance.
Note on Taksim Square: The square itself is a large, busy traffic hub with multiple entry points. The Marmara Hotel is on the south side, easily identified by its size and the Marmara signage. If approached from İstiklal Avenue (the pedestrian shopping street), walk south and downhill toward the square; the hotel faces you directly.
Accessibility
The Marmara Taksim has wheelchair-accessible lobbies and elevators serving the rooftop. Upperist's terrace is mostly flat and open, with some raised seating areas. Accessible restroom facilities are available on the floor. Parking is available at the hotel (accessible spaces are available, though paid). Mobility-impaired guests should call ahead (+90 534 575 31 75) to confirm the most convenient entrance and to arrange valet parking if needed.
Food Nearby
Upperist serves cocktails and light bites (sushi, small plates), so food is available on-site. The Marmara Taksim also houses Okra Istanbul (Mediterranean/Turkish fine dining) and Raika Restaurant, both on the 20th floor or nearby. Outside the hotel, Taksim Square is surrounded by restaurants, kebab shops, meyhanes (taverns), and fast-food options within a 2-minute walk. İstiklal Avenue, 100 meters north, is a pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants, and street food vendors spanning Turkish, international, and fusion cuisines. For quick meals, numerous small eateries cluster around the Taksim Metro exit.
What to Bring
In summer, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light layer (breeze from the Bosphorus can cool the terrace at dusk). In winter, bring a warm jacket or coat; the open terrace is windy. Comfortable standing shoes are useful if the venue is crowded. A phone for photography is essential—the view is the main attraction, and most visitors photograph the skyline. No specific bags are restricted, but large backpacks are uncommon in the upscale lounge setting. Security and bag checks are minimal; pass through normal hotel lobby access.
Photography Rules
Photography is freely permitted on the terrace. Tripods are not commonly used but are not explicitly prohibited; they are simply uncommon in the social setting. Drones are not permitted (airspace restrictions over central Istanbul). Flash is not necessary due to the open-air setting and city lights. The best photos are taken during sunset (warm, golden light) or after dark (city lights and Bosphorus reflections).
Family Suitability
Upperist is not family-oriented. While not explicitly prohibited, the atmosphere, operating hours (18:00–01:00 or 02:00), music, and crowd (increasingly young and party-focused after dark) make it unsuitable for children. The terrace railings are waist-high and suitable for adult safety. Stroller access is technically possible through the hotel lobby and elevators but is impractical and unusual. Best suited for adults 18+, particularly couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers. Families should visit other Istanbul rooftop venues or daytime options.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Arrive between 19:00 and 19:45 on a weekday to catch the sunset with comfortable seating, minimal crowds, and a transition from lounge to more energetic music—the 'sweet spot' of the evening.
- If you want photos of the skyline lit at night, stay until 22:30–23:00 when the city lights are bright and the crowd has thinned from the earliest rush but before the late-night dance rush. The bar and terrace lights also enhance the backdrop.
- On weekends, the venue is fully packed by 23:00; if you prefer standing room or don't mind a dense crowd, this is the best time for nightclub energy. If you dislike crowds, leave by 22:30 or visit on a weekday evening.
- Bring a light cardigan or jacket even in summer; the Bosphorus breeze drops the temperature quickly after sunset, and the open-air terrace has no shelter from wind.
- The bartenders are knowledgeable about Istanbul's nightlife and can recommend other venues or events. If Upperist is too crowded, they can suggest alternatives in the Taksim and Beyoğlu area.
- Check the official Instagram (@upper_ist) before visiting on a Friday or Saturday to see if a special DJ or event is scheduled; these nights draw larger crowds but offer more energetic atmospheres.
What to Do Within Walking Distance of Upperist
These places are an easy walk from Upperist and help you plan your days:
Within walking distance
Atatürk Library – about 50 m away (~1 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hours11 min on foot from Kabataş metro, Open daily 09:00–21:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Atatürk Cultural Center – about 150 m away (~2 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hours8 min on foot from Kabataş metro, Open daily 10:00–18:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Galata Mevlevi Museum – about 200 m away (~3 min walk) · typical visit: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours13 min on foot from Kabataş metro, Open 09:00–18:30, closed MonMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Explore Nearby Upperist
Metro stations near Upperist
Kabataş – about 600 m away (~10 min walk)Open daily 06:15–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi – about 600 m away (~10 min walk)Open daily 06:00–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Nightlife near Upperist
U2 Istanbul Irish Pub – about 350 m away (~6 min walk)14 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Kastel – about 400 m away (~6 min walk)13 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Bova Jazz Club – about 400 m away (~6 min walk)14 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Konser Karaoke Cafe – about 400 m away (~7 min walk)14 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open daily 20:00–06:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Restaurants and cafes near Upperist
Kızılkayalar – about 100 m away (~2 min walk)11 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open daily 08:00–05:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Topaz – about 150 m away (~3 min walk)11 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open 18:00–00:00, closed SunMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Tiflisi – about 250 m away (~4 min walk)10 min on foot from Kabataş metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Train stations and river piers near Upperist
Kabataş Ferry Terminalabout 750 m away (~12 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Beşiktaş Ferry Terminalabout 1.5 km away (~24 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Related guides
Taksim Square: Istanbul’s Central CrossroadsMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Galata Tower: Tickets, Views and 700 Years of History4 min on foot from Şişhane metro, Open daily 08:30–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Galata Bridge: Crossing Istanbul’s Golden Horn10 min on foot from Haliç metro, Open 24 hoursMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Golden Horn: Istanbul’s Historic Waterway and Waterfront GuideMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Cruise Port Guide: Galataport to the Old City in One DayMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Browse more: More in Beyoğlu · All Nightlife · All Rooftop Bars
FAQ: Upperist
Is there a cover charge to enter Upperist?
No. There is no cover charge. You pay for food and drinks consumed. A single cocktail is sufficient; no minimum spend is enforced.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are not required on weekdays or before 20:00. Groups of 6+ should call ahead (+90 534 575 31 75) to secure seating. On Friday and Saturday after 22:00, walk-ins may wait or be turned away if at capacity; calling beforehand is strongly advised.
What time is best to visit for sunset?
Sunset occurs around 17:30–18:00 in winter and 20:30–21:00 in summer. Arrive 30–40 minutes before sunset to secure a comfortable seat and watch the light change. Weekdays offer better seating than weekends.
Is Upperist a nightclub or a bar?
It is both. Before 21:00, it functions as a sophisticated rooftop lounge bar with cocktails, soft music, and conversation-friendly seating. After 22:00, especially on weekends, it transitions to a standing-room club with DJs, higher-energy music, and a dance floor atmosphere near the bar.
What is the dress code?
Smart casual is expected. No beachwear, gym attire, or very casual sportswear. Business casual or evening wear is appropriate. Closed-toe shoes are typical.
Can I just stand at the bar or do I have to sit?
You can stand at the bar or along the railings anytime. Bar seating is first-come-first-serve. Sofa tables can be reserved or are taken quickly; standing areas remain available even when seating is full, especially along the terrace railings.
How long does a typical visit take?
Most visitors stay 2–3 hours, arriving around sunset and leaving by 22:00–23:00. Some stay longer for the nightclub part or for extended socializing. One cocktail takes 30–45 minutes to enjoy.
Is there food, or just drinks?
Both. Upperist serves cocktails as the main offering and offers light bites, appetizers, and sushi as secondary food options. The menu is limited; it is not a full-service restaurant. The Marmara Taksim's other restaurants (Okra Istanbul, Raika) are nearby for more substantial dining.
Istanbul Vibes is a one-person project. A coffee keeps it going
Take this guide with you
Get a free PDF of this guide to print or read offline: key facts, tips and a map link on a few clean pages.
Report an issue on this page
How we research and update our guides
About this guide: AI assistance and accuracy
This guide is created with the help of AI and is based on official sources where available. Mistakes can still happen. Opening hours, prices, rules and other details are given to the best of our knowledge as of the date shown and can change without notice. It offers general recommendations only, not professional, legal or travel advice. Please confirm important details with the official source before you travel; you are responsible for your own plans and decisions.
* Affiliate link: as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
