Event Dates
From: Saturday, March 29, 2025
To: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Istanbul Bear Week: Spring Edition 2025
Stay Club Istanbul presents 9 days and nights of bear parties as part of the Middle Eastern Bear Week.
Istanbul Bear Week
Stay Club Istanbul presents 9 days and nights of bear parties as part of the Middle Eastern Bear Week.
- Stay close to the city’s top attractions and a short walk to Taksim Square at the Adahan DeCamondo Pera https://www.booking.com/hotel/tr/adahan-istanbul.en-gb.html?aid=308283&label=istanbulbearweek. This Autograph Collection hotel is rated “Fabulous” by guests. It features spacious rooms and suites and a stunning rooftop restaurant serving delicious breakfasts with sweeping city views.
The Event
- Next Edition: Saturday 29th March 2025 – Sunday 6th April 2025 – Spring Edition
- Join the hottest Turkish bears and their admirers for the next edition of Istanbul Bear Week.
- Istanbul, where East meets West, offers a dynamic and evolving LGBTQ+ scene, particularly friendly to Bears.
- Stay Club hosts several international parties and events catering to the bear community. It is located close to Taksim Square, just a 4-minute walk away, in the heart of Istanbul.
- It features a host of international DJs, sexy Bear GoGos, and international bear parties from London to Rio.
- Parties include Furball, Mad Bear Madrid, Beefdip and more.
- Enjoy 5-star service and a great location at SoHo House Istanbul, rated “Fabulous” by guests and located close to the Istanbul’s historic landmarks and just a short taxi ride from most of the gay clubs and best restaurants.
The Schedule
- Saturday 29th March – Opening Night Stay Istanbul
- Sunday 30th March – POSH London Party
- Monday 31st March – Bear Festival Milano Party
- Tuesday 1st April – Furball Party
- Wednesday 2nd April – Beef Dip Party Puerto Vallarta
- Thursday, 3rd April – BIG Bear Party from Brazil
- Friday 4th April – MAD Bear Madrid
- Saturday 5th April – POSH – Beirut Party
- Sunday 6th April – Stay at Istanbul Closing Party
- Check out the best places to party, stay and play with our gay guide to Istanbul.
The Venue
- Stay Club – Located in the heart of Istanbul close to Taksim Square.
- The Club plays a mix of Turkish and international hits.
- It features high ceilings, a large dance floor, a bar, and friendly staff.
Popular Venues in Istanbul
- Babel Park Pub: Located in the Aksaray district, it is popular among bears, mature men, and locals. Features live Turkish music and affordable pricing. 5 kilometers away from Taksim. Tucked beneath the Babil Park Hotel, it has served as a gathering spot for the Turkish gay bear community since 2018.
- Mor Kedi Cafe & Bar: Long-established, relaxed environment attracting younger gay men and bears.
- Club Cheeky: Mixed crowd with many bears and mature guests; busiest after 2 a.m.
- Firuzagha Hamam: Traditional Turkish bath in Beyoğlu, favoured by gay bears.
- While Istanbul is relatively progressive, it’s advisable to be mindful of public displays of affection, especially in conservative areas.
- Check out the top hotels close to Taksim Square, the heart of Istanbul.
Other Gay Bars & Venues
- Tekyön: Famous gay venue, Istanbul’s largest gay Club, Tekyön attracts a diverse crowd with its fun atmosphere.
- Rocinante Bar: A welcoming gay bar offering a relaxed environment, making it ideal for socializing.
- Aquarius Sauna: This 24-hour male sauna and gym provides relaxation and social opportunities.
Recommended Hotels in Istanbul
Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action:
Recommended Hotels
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
Where we stay!
The Adahan Istanbul is where we stay when
we visit Amsterdam. Close to the gay bars.
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Bear Week Istanbul, visit Instagram
Gay Map of Istanbul
Istanbul is a huge city, so base yourself near Taksim or Beyoğlu, where the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife and culture thrives. Use the metro, trams, and ferries to navigate the city efficiently.
Serdar-i Ekrem Sok No:24 Galata Beyoglu, Beyoglu, 34420 Istanbul, Turkey
Located in a majestic historical building in Galata, the heart of modern day Istanbul, this award-winning hotel offers guest rooms with spacious balconies, stunning views and personalised service. The popular rooftop restaurant and its bar allow spectacular views over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.
Marble bathrooms with walk-in rain showers, parquet flooring and advanced technology are standard in each room at Georges Hotel Galata. Rooms feature a flat-screen TV, an espresso machine and free WiFi.
In the centre of Istanbul, near to shopping, entertainment, and the city's sights, Ansen Suites offers large and stylish suites and a long list of services.
At just a short walking distance you can reach popular entertainment venues and busy shopping districts such as Nevizade Street or Istiklal Avenue. Not far from the hotel, you can visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum or stroll through the Fish Market.
Bankalar Caddesi No:5 Karakoy Beyoglu Beyoglu Vd 177 035 9519, Istanbul
The Bank Hotel Istanbul is located in the up-and-coming district of Karaköy on Bankalar Caddesi, the glory of Constantinople’s financial district, and is a convenient launching pad for exploring bohemian Beyoğlu and historic Sultanahmet. The property is within walking distance to some of the city's favored art galleries. Free Wi-Fi access is available.
All the rooms in The Bank Hotel Istanbul have heating and they are fitted with a minibar, an iPod docking station and a desk. Featuring a rain shower, private bathrooms come with Lokum Istanbul brand amenities.
Sadri Alisik Sok. Taksim , Beyoglu, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
Located only 100 m from vibrant Istiklal Avenue, Room Mate Emir interior is designed by famous designer Lázaro Rosa Violán, creating a blend of avante-garde furnishings set in a classical building. Offers a gym and a sauna.
Elegantly decorated rooms of Room Mate Emir rooms include a seating area with a sofa. You will find a kettle and work desk in the room. Private bathrooms fitted with free toiletries and a hairdryer. A flat-screen TV and air conditioning are also offered. Free WiFi
Boğazkesen Caddesi. Tomtom Kaptan Sokak No.18 Beyoglu, Beyoglu, Istanbul
Tomtom Suites, member of Small Luxury Hotels of the world, is located in a historic building in Istanbul’s Galata district. Every room has a private spa bath, and there are Marmara Sea and Sultanahmet views from the roof top terrace.
All suites at Tomtom feature modern amenities and luxurious Carrara marble bathrooms. The rooms have high ceilings and wooden floors, and provide free Wi-Fi access, iPod docking station and a tea/coffee maker to all guests.
şahkulu mahallesi galipdede caddesi no :85a, Beyoglu, 34420 Istanbul, Turkey
Situated in Istanbul and with Galata Tower reachable within 100 metres, World House Boutique Hotel features express check-in and check-out, allergy-free rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a garden. The property is close to several well-known attractions, offers a 24-hour front desk,
At the hotel, each room includes a desk. The rooms are fitted with air conditioning and a private bathroom.
Mesrutiyet Cad. Evliya Celebi Mah. No:56 Beyoglu Istanbul, Beyoglu, Istanbul
Situated in Beyoglu district, Soho House Istanbul features 3 original buildings including the Chancery and the Annex, a new Glass Building, and members’ club 19th century Palazzo Corpi. The courtyard garden has a Cecconi’s restaurant, and Cowshed Spa offers a gym and a traditional hammam.
Tastefully decorated in contemporary style, all rooms of Soho House Istanbul have super king-size beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, flat-screen TV, Marshall speakers, minibar, tea&coffee facilities, and complimentary WiFi. The private bathrooms come with a walk-in rainforest shower
Istiklal cad. No: 201 Beyoglu 34430 Istanbul, Istanbul Province, Turkey
This is a hidden gem originally home for the Italian Ravouna Family in 1894, it is one of the two best preserved Art Nouveau buildings in Istanbul and is now home to Ravouna 1906 cage bar and well worth a visit for one of their Craft Cocktails or Specialty Coffee
Bogazkesen Caddesi Tomtom Kaptan Sokak No:18 Beyoğlu 34433 Istanbul,
Istanbul's gastronomic restaurant, Nicole, is a boutique restaurant offering fine dining at its best! and realy is a must if you enjoy good food and wine.
Contemporary mediterranean cuisine served on a chic terrace with a magnificent views of the Old Town, Prince Islands and beyond..
Meşrutiyet caddesi No:107/F Şişhane Beyoğlu 34421 Istanbul, Istanbul
The story of Aheste started with our passion for slow life, traditional recipes, dishes cooked slowly with natural products in the season, and most of all, tavern culture. In a row; A modern meze restaurant that is open every day of the week as of 18:30, where traditional recipes are prepared and served with natural ingredients and techniques.
Great Tapas restaurant with a Turkish twist.
Asmalı Mescit Mah. General Yazgan sok no 3 beyoğlu 34400 Istanbul, Istanbul
Antiochia is the Perfect restaurant to head for if you’re in the mood for that Turkish Mezes. Antakya-specific wraps, skewers, appetizers and desserts are all on offer here and never disappoint
3 Soğancı Sokak, Cihangir 34433 Istanbul, Istanbul Province, Turkey
5.kat Restaurant has been serving local and international guests since 1993. and is the talk-of-town among celebrities and prominent entertainers from around the world.
Perched atop of a 150 year old historical building in the neighbourhood of Cihangir in the Beyoglu district of Istanbul, offering one of the most breathtaking views in all of Istanbul at. Overlooking the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palaces, guests enjoy international culinary delights and unique dishes as they take in the spirit of Istanbul over dinner and end their nights dancing under the stars. Experience a truly remarkable evening you will never forget.
yerebatan cad. no:18 sultanahmet 34110 Istanbul, Istanbul Province, Turkey
Cihannuma Restaurant is a destination unto itself and offers the finest, unique and sensory gastronomic experience – and this experience all starts with personal attention, an elegant setting and a panoramic view of Old City’s heart.
Great Views and excellent food.
Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Kemankeş Cd. No:57, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul,
Another hidden gem good quality food every time you visit, and the staff are always happy to explain the dishes to you so you order exactly right, and all at prices that will not break the bank. This restaurant seems to be busier every time we visit, and we can see why
Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
The most famous monument to visit in Istanbul
Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is an Ottoman-era friday mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. A functioning mosque, it also attracts large numbers of tourist visitors. It was constructed between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I. Its Külliye contains Ahmed's tomb, a madrasah and a hospice.
Sıraselviler Cd. 63/1 Beyoğlu - İstanbul Taksim, Istanbul Province, Turkey
Popular mixed gay dance club, this place has been around a long running venue. and gest very busy
Şehit Muhtar, Tarlabaşı Blv no 32, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Small gay bar with a darkroom very busy at weekends
Katip Mustafa Çelebi, İpek Sk. no:16, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Long-running gay café bar, attracting a younger local crowd, located on on the busy Istiklal Street. Hiddne, two doors above a restaurant.
Öğüt Sokak no 6 kat 3 34140 Beyoglu, Istanbul Province, Turkey
Rocinante Cafe Bar continues to be the Most Popular LGBTT Place with its Renewed shows and Live Music, celebrating its 16th anniversary
Şehit Muhtar istiklal caddesi, İmam Adnan Sk. No:8 Kat:2 D:3, 34435, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Fun gay club always packed, friendly staff
Katip Mustafa Çelebi, Büyük Parmakkapı Sk. No:17 Teras Kat, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Busy café bar with live Turkish music, singing and drag shows on different nights. Located off Istiklal Avenue, on the first floor of a building. Popular from 8 pm to 2 am and like all gay venues in Istanbul, busiest on Saturday night.
Recommended Hotels in Istanbul
Istanbul is sprawling but well-connected by public transport and easy to navigate by tram or metro. The main gay areas are around Taksim and Beyoğlu, conveniently close to most of the hotels below.
Soho House
5 Star – Central Location
- 5-star luxury, central location
- Close to the gay district
- Air-conditioned, flat-screen TV
- Part of the Soho House Group with access to the clubhouse and Cecconis Restaurant.
Walton Hotel
Designer Chic
- Located close to Galata Tower
- Stylish designer rooms
- Rooftop restaurant with views
- Stunning capsule hotel with high-end amenities and a great location, top choice.
Pera Palace
Historic Hotel
- Located in the Pera District
- Historic Hotel Features
- Indoor Swimming Pool
- Step back in time, into the wonderful gilded age of hotels in this neoclassical hotel.
CVK Park
5 Star – Perfect Location
- 150 m from Taksim Square
- Stunning Spa & Pool
- Exceptional city views
- CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel is rated “Superb” offering world-class service and amenities.
Video Things to Do in Istanbul
The top 10 things to see and do in Istanbul
Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Istanbul
Istanbul is an enormous city with a diverse range of neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re seeking lively nightlife, rich history, or a glimpse into authentic local culture, choosing the right area can shape your entire stay.
Beyoğlu/Taksim | Main District
Photo: Galata tower and streets of Istanbul
- Heart of Istanbul’s nightlife and culture, with numerous bars, clubs, and cafés.
- Vibrant LGBTQ+ friendly scene, particularly around Istiklal Avenue.
- Great for shopping, dining, galleries, and historic buildings.
- Discover the best things to see and do in Istanbul
Sultanahmet
Ideal for first-time visitors wanting to explore iconic sights, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, and Grand Bazaar.
Karaköy
Trendy and fashionable, boasting stylish cafés, galleries, boutiques, nightlife hotspots, and a central location.
Kadıköy
Perfect for experiencing authentic local life, lively cafés, independent boutiques, hip nightlife, and scenic ferry rides.
Nişantaşı
Upscale and sophisticated area renowned for luxury shopping, fine dining, chic cafés and elegant architecture.
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