Christmas and New Year's Attractions in Turkey

From vibrant Christmas markets and shopping in Istanbul to warm winter escapes, Turkey (Türkiye) offers magical experiences during this merry winter season. Istanbul, once the Byzantine capital Constantinople, was a bastion of Christianity for over 1,000 years, leaving behind iconic landmarks like the Basilica Haghia Sophia, completed in 537. Celebrating Christmas in Turkey also allows visitors to explore ancient Christian sites where apostles preached, blending history with holiday cheer.

Find out about Christmas and New Year’s attractions in Turkey as twinkling lights dominate at iconic locations.

Visiting Turkey at Christmas

Christmas brings a burst of colourful festivities in Istanbul and other major cities of Turkey. Visitors can spot figures like Santa Claus, hailed locally as "Noel Baba" or St. Nicholas, along with decorated Christmas trees, snowflake ornaments, and red stockings for New Year gifts. At first glance, it may seem that Turks celebrate Christmas in a traditional Christian way. However, this is not the case—Turkish residents prepare for the coming New Year (Yılbaşı), not Christmas, and the decorations are intended solely for New Year's events.

The holiday ambiance in major Turkish cities is influenced by the country's growing expat community, the steady rise in tourism, and the spirit of cultural diversity and globalization. In popular tourist destinations like Istanbul and Ankara, fireworks, concerts, and parties are common before the start of the New Year.

While Turkey is officially a secular country, most of its population (approximately 95%) identify as Muslim. Turkey is also home to Orthodox, Catholic, and Jewish minorities, each with their own places of worship. During Christmas, churches across the country are adorned with lights and host special services to mark the occasion.

How to Celebrate Christmas and the New Year in Turkey?

Best Christmas Attractions in Istanbul

This Turkey Travel Guide will help travellers solidify their plans. Here is a list of things to do at Christmas in Istanbul.

Sing Christmas Carols and Attend Holy Mass

Several churches in Istanbul hold Christmas services, some located around İstiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi) in Beyoğlu.

• When visiting Turkey at Christmas, Catholics can immerse themselves in the warmth of the season inside the stunning interior of the Church of St. Anthony of Padua (St. Antuan Katolik Kilisesi), right on the aforementioned street. This is the largest Catholic church in the city, holding the yearly Christmas Eve liturgy on December 24 and the Holy Mass on December 25 to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ (İsa Mesih) in Nazareth. The nativity scene outside the St. Anthony of Padua Church is a beautiful reminder of the Christmas origins. Jesus (İsa) and Mary (Meryem), revered both in Christianity and Islam, are central to the story, alongside the Three Wise Men (Müneccimler), their gifts, and the Star of Bethlehem.
• Just a block behind İstiklal Avenue, near Taksim Square (Taksim Meydanı), is the German Protestant Church (Alman Protestan Kilisesi).
• Visitors can attend a Christmas carol concert on Christmas Eve at Istanbul's second largest Catholic church, the Baroque-style Cathedral of the Holy Spirit (St. Esprit Cathedral, Saint Esprit Kilisesi) on Cumhuriyet Avenue (Cumhuriyet Caddesi) in Şişli.
• The classical songs, such as “O Holy Night” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” will be heard at The Union Church of Istanbul, the former historic Dutch Chapel from the 19th century. This Protestant interdenominational congregation unites expats from many countries.
• The Orthodox community led by the Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate gathers for Christmas Eve at the Patriarchal Cathedral Church of St. George’s (Aya Yorgi Patrikhane Kilisesi or Aziz Yorgi Katedrali) on January 6, followed by an exciting ritual of throwing a cross into the waters from Istanbul’s Golden Horn. The Orthodox community celebrates Christmas Day on January 7.
• In Izmir, tourists can say prayers and sing Christmas carols at the Basilica of St. John, also known as St. John's Cathedral (Aziz Yuhanna Bazilikası or Aziz Yuhanna Katedrali), or at the St. Mary's Catholic Church (Santa Maria Katolik Kilisesi).
• Every Christmas, around 9,000 believers congregate at the St. Paul Orthodox Church (Aziz Pavlus Ortodoks Kilisesi) in Antakya (formerly known as Antioch) for a festive service and meal. This city, where both Saint Paul and Saint Peter once preached, continues to serve as a spiritual and cultural anchor for the Antiochian Christians, often referred to as “Arab Orthodox.”

See Christmas and New Year Lights in Turkey

Christmas and New Year are the perfect time to wander around the city in the evening to admire dazzling decorations. There are plenty of places in Turkey to check out the lights.

• Istanbul stands out as the city that celebrates the impressive Christmas light displays. The streets, like İstiklal, Nişantaşı, and Kadıköy, including Taksim Square and the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, feature a cascading glow from a glittering Christmas tree, charming nativity scenes, wreaths, and candles to star-shaped light installations, toy soldiers, and candy canes.
• Guests can expect New Year decorations when strolling around Ankara’s Tunalı Hilmi Avenue (Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi), Argentine Street (Arjantin Caddesi), Samanpazarı Saraçlar Çarşısı (bazaar), Kızılay Square (Kızılay Meydanı), and its surroundings.
• Alsancak, the entertainment hub of Izmir on the north waterfront, gets wrapped in over-the-top illuminations just a few days before New Year. The same is true for Karşıyaka Bazaar, Bornova Street, Bostanlı Recreation Area (Bostanlı rekreasyon alanı), Mustafa Kemal Coastal Boulevard (Mustafa Kemal Sahil Bulvarı), and Kordon promenade.

Explore Turkey’s Christmas Markets

Istanbul boasts several Christmas markets where newcomers can grab a drink, enjoy a bite to eat, and stock up on special handmade crafts. Advent calendars, popular among visitors during this season, can also be purchased in some shops in Istanbul.

• Wonder Village at KüçükÇiftlik Park is regarded as Istanbul's biggest winter market, running from December 1 to December 31.
• The Istanbul Christmas Market at the Six Senses Kocataş Mansions hotel is a treasure trove for handcrafted items and seasonal jollity (December 8-25).
• Between December 23 and 30, the historic Fişekhane structure in Zeytinburnu, which was part of the Zeytinburnu Imperial Factory at the beginning of the 19th century, turns into a winter fairytale, filled with cultural activities like workshops, live music performances, carnivals, and personal development discussions.
• Two shopping malls, Zorlu Centre in the Beşiktaş neighbourhood and İstinye Park in the İstinye quarter of Istanbul, open their doors for the European-style winter market.
• Every year, the French Cultural Centre in Izmir organises the Marché de Noël Market. Eats and Beats Christmas Bazaar is another popular Christmas market in the city at Hiltown Karşıyaka AVM.
• New Year cheer, handmade ceramics, paintings, and more await travellers in Ankara’s Anafartalar Bazaar of the Ulus district. The winter sale is open here from December 22 to December 24. The International Ankara Christmas Festival (Uluslararası Ankara Noel Festivali) is an annual event that brings holiday music, cheerful decorations, market stalls, and activities for ages.
• The Christmas market in Cappadocia’s Göreme village imbues the area with holiday charm. The stalls afford handcrafted gifts, local treats, and lights among fairy chimneys and snow-dusted caves.
• With summer crowds gone, expats in Bodrum convene at the December market, which often includes children’s choirs, stalls with gifts, artisan crafts, and local and international delicacies. Beyond Christmas Day, thousands of foreign residents and visitors from Bodrum and the surrounding areas gather for Boxing Day on December 26. This special event is set up annually by the Mayor of Bodrum as a gesture of respecting diversity given the impressive expat community.
• Dalyan’s large holiday market is an occasion every expat in the town won’t miss. On Christmas Eve, İztuzu Beach (İztuzu Plajı) becomes a place for a pot-luck picnic. Anyone can come here with their dishes and snacks to contribute to the shared feast.

Where to See New Year's Eve Fireworks in Turkey?

• Taksim Square and Bosphorus Bridge (15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü) in Istanbul are delights to visit any time of the year, and on New Year’s Eve, visitors can appreciate spectacular fireworks in these landmarks.
• As the clock strikes midnight when the NYE Countdown ends, Ankara residents gather at Kızılay district to witness glittering fireworks.
• Large crowds in Izmir typically head to Cumhuriyet Square (Cumhuriyet Meydanı), the city's heart, to marvel at New Year’s Eve fireworks.
• Beneath the breath-taking backdrop of Cappadocia’s ancient rock formations and caves, fireworks illuminate the night sky, casting an alluring glare over the surreal landscape.

New Year’s Eve Cruises in Turkey with Amazing Views

An unforgettable coastal New Year’s Eve cruise in Turkey will surely enhance one’s joyful mood.

• A ride aboard a Bosphorus cruise promises a lasting memory of Turkish cuisine, live entertainment, majestic sights of Istanbul's illuminated monuments, and a fireworks spectacle.
• Holiday seekers can embrace the beauty of Izmir with boats departing from Alsancak and Konak piers. The evening highlights the stunning Aegean Sea while indulging in gourmet meals, live music, and scenic views of Izmir's illuminated waterfront.
• Antalya, known for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and New Year's Eve yacht trips, caters to a unique way to enjoy the Mediterranean's tranquil waters. Voyagers are treated to a mix of traditional Turkish and international entertainment on board.
• Enchanting cruises set sail from Bodrum Marina, complete with DJ sets, dancing, and delicious dining. The 360-degree vista of the Bodrum Castle and nearby islands adds an otherworldly touch to the evening.
• Marmaris revels in a vibrant New Year's Eve with excursions unveiling the stunning coves and bays along the coast. These include fine dining and various entertainment options to keep guests engaged until the bell rings at midnight.
• Fethiye’s New Year’s Eve cruises depart from the town’s marina and render a more relaxed, intimate ambiance. In addition to beautiful coastal landscape views, guests can delight in jolly banquets and live shows.

Turkey’s New Year’s Eve Clubs and Parties

Turkey's main cities have a plethora of exciting nightclubs that will turn December 31 into a memorable New Year’s Eve adventure.

• Taps Bebek in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, awaits those looking for extraordinary entertainment with a great seaside view.
•  Guests can dress up for a unique New Year’s Eve at Nossa Costa. A lovely location by the sea (Ataköy Marina) makes it one of the favourite entertainment spots in Istanbul.
• More venues and music halls to celebrate the best New Year's Eve (NYE) in Istanbul with an exhilarating party late to the night are JJ Pub Canyon, Mask Beach, Dorock XL Kadıköy, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Sahne 74 Bakirköy, and IF Performance Hall Beşiktaş.
• Tourists can opt for an unusual end to the year at one of the luxury hotels in Ankara. For example, they can welcome the New Year in a sophisticated style with the New Year’s Eve Ball at the Ankara Hilton.
• SoldOut Performance Hall is the largest event and concert hub in Izmir, Karşıyaka. The New Year Program at Hangout PSM typically involves hits from the 90s, electronic music, stand-up shows, and even theatrical plays. Guests can welcome the New Year in the captivating atmosphere on the terrace of the Izmir Marriott Hotel. Highly skilled Mariott Izmir chefs will serve delicious dishes on the last night of the year.

New Year’s Eve Concerts in Istanbul

Istanbul’s vibrant cultural scene shines brightly on New Year's Eve, especially for classical music enthusiasts.

• Iconic venues such as the Atatürk Cultural Centre, Şişli Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall, and the Pera Palace Hotel — Great Pera Ballroom usually host special classical music concerts to celebrate the turn of the year. Those interested in these exclusive performances should check online to purchase tickets, as these events sell out quickly.

Winter Escapes for a Warm Christmas and New Year

• Turkey’s southern and southwest coasts offer an inviting escape from winter chills. Famous seaside resorts like Alanya, Marmaris, and Bodrum present an idyllic setting for a warm and merry pastime. Though temperatures are lower than in summer, these destinations benefit from a mild winter climate, allowing visitors to experience a unique and refreshing Christmas and New Year by the sea.
• A well-frequented bar in Alanya for the New Year’s Eve party is the vibrant Robin Hood Bar. In Marmaris, the clubs along the marina are sought-after leisure spots, especially Joy Club and Club Budha Bar, all known for arranging holiday festivities. Although the mentioned clubs might seem like purely nighttime meeting places for the youngest generations, it is worth noting that during the daytime, these venues are excellent eateries with amazing views, appealing to senior guests.
• For a grander event, consider one of the large hotels that frequently arrange dazzling New Year’s Eve special dinners, live concerts, and countdown celebrations.

Ski Breaks at Christmas and New Year in Turkey

Are you visiting Turkey at Christmas? Why not spend this most wonderful time of the year on the slopes? Turkey’s ski resorts are uncrowded at Christmas and New Year. Besides, they are bursting with various merriments to get tourists in high spirits. Guests can join in the fun with Christmas markets, music, shows, and food galore and hit the slopes. Palandöken and Uludağ are the featured resorts.

• Located in the northwestern province of Bursa, Uludağ counts an impressive 28 kilometres of slopes and is highly geared toward tourism with its luxurious and comfortable hotels. This favoured resort provides ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, downhill adventures, trekking, and even camping, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels.
• Situated in the northeastern province of Erzurum, Palandöken prides itself on some of the longest and steepest slopes in Europe, a renowned choice for skiers. The resort’s racetracks are recognised by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS), creating the perfect locale for experienced professionals looking for a challenge.

Discover the Origin of Santa Claus in Turkey

Visiting St. Nicholas Church in Demre (Noel Baba Kilisesi and Aya Nikola Kilisesi) is a meaningful addition to any Christmas and New Year itinerary in Turkey. As the burial place of Saint Nicholas, a Christian bishop of Myra in the 4th century, this church enables visitors to Turkey to connect with the spirit of generosity and goodwill that defines the season. It fosters a sense of enlightenment for those seeking to deepen their appreciation of Christmas heritage while browsing Turkey’s cultural treasures. St. Nicholas passed away on 6th December 365 AD, a date celebrated in his honour. Every year the International Santa Claus Festival takes place from December 6 to 8, in Demre and in Kaş.

Best Day and Evening NYE Istanbul Ideas

• Start the day off by riding a restored 19th-century tram along İstiklal Avenue.
• Lace up some skates at Istanbul’s best ice skating rinks.
• Take the family to the Dance of The Whirling Dervishes (Mevlevi Sema Ceremony), a Sufi tradition declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
• Tick off some of the top attractions in Istanbul, many of which are open on NYE day.
• Be immersed in the glow of fireworks at Ortaköy on the Bosphorus shores.

Things to Do on New Year’s Day in Istanbul

• Hit the shops in one of Istanbul’s top shopping destinations to take advantage of the bargains in the January sale.
• Visit the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), which used to be the largest church in the Christian world.
• Spend the evening in the hammam, a Turkish bath (Hamam).
• Take a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait (İstanbul Boğazı).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Turks celebrate Christmas?

Muslims in Turkey do not adhere to the religious aspect of Christmas, yet locals often engage in jolly activities during this period to enter the New Year. Highlights include shopping, gift exchanges, dining on yılbaşı ekmeği (New Year's bread), wearing red clothing for good luck, attending parties, and participating in the New Year’s lottery, Millî Piyango.

Does Istanbul Celebrate New Year?

New Year’s Eve is widely celebrated in Turkey, blending traditional secular customs with Western holiday symbols. However, New Year’s Eve celebrations were uncommon in the early Turkish Republic, as people traditionally observed and continue to commemorate Norouz, called Nevruz in Turkey (the new day). This spring festival, based on the vernal equinox, whose origin lies in the Iranian religion, marks the new year in the Turkish calendar.

New Year gained traction in 1926 when Turkey adopted the Gregorian calendar under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's leadership. Consequently, January 1 was announced as a public holiday in 1981.

What is the history of Christmas in Turkey?

The modernisation and westernisation of the Ottoman Empire (18th century) introduced Christmas celebrations among Istanbul's Christian minority. Special worship gatherings began to be held in churches, and decorations gradually appeared in more homes. Although not an official observance, many communities embraced the Christmas spirit and incorporated it into their own traditions.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Galata and Beyoğlu districts featured joyous markets, drawing locals and tourists alike and establishing these events as part of Istanbul’s cultural landscape. This legacy can still be seen as Istanbul welcomes visitors worldwide to take in the unique Christmas season.

Interesting facts about Christmas and New Year in Turkey:

• In 1829, Scottish diplomat Robert Liston, who was appointed as British Ambassador to the Sublime Porte, hosted Istanbul's first New Year's ball at his residence in Pera, attended by Sultan Mahmud II, his court, diplomats, and the local elite. This event marked a growing acceptance of foreign customs within the Ottoman Empire.
• In 1856, Sultan Abdülmecid made history by attending a New Year's ball hosted by the French ambassador, the first time an Ottoman sultan joined a public celebration of a Christian holiday. His attendance symbolised his commitment to reform and modernisation in the empire.