As Istanbul continues to evolve into a global cultural hotspot, the city’s concert scene stands as a testament to its rich musical heritage and contemporary allure.
With a history woven with the performances of renowned artists and a stage graced by musical legends, Istanbul has solidified its position as the premier destination for those seeking to host events in Turkey.
In this guide, we will explore Istanbul’s best concert venues perfect for big and small events.
Zorlu Performing Arts Center
Zorlu Performing Arts Center inside Zorlu Center in Istanbul stands as the largest dedicated performing arts theatre and concert hall in Turkey. Designed by the renowned Turkish architect Emre Arolat, the facility boasts a multi-venue space covering 55,000 sq. meters. Since its inauguration in October 2013, Zorlu PSM has become a key player in the arts and culture scene, hosting various events such as shows, musicals, and concerts, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry in Turkey.
Features:
- Turkcell Stage: Main theatre with a capacity of 2,200 seats, natural acoustics, and versatile stage space.
- Turkcell Platinum Stage: Smaller drama stage with a capacity of 717 seats, equipped with sound, video, and light systems.
- Multi-use studio theatre space suitable for various activities and events.
- A club within Zorlu PSM accommodates approximately 120 people, perfect for stand-up comedians and live performances.
- Spacious areas for socializing, hosting events, and art exhibitions, totaling 5200/m2 in space.
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Jersey Boys
- Hikmet Şimşek
- Daniel Hope
Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall
The Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall in the Harbiye neighborhood of Istanbul is a major concert hall designed specifically for classical music. Opened in March 1989, the hall is named after the Turkish composer Cemal Reşit Rey. The venue hosts a variety of concerts, ballet, and dance performances throughout the year and is home to CRR Istanbul Symphony Orchestra, Turkish Musical Ensemble, CRR Big Band Jazz, and CRR Instrumental Soloists.
Features:
- Seating capacity of 860
- State-of-the-art sound system.
- In-house lighting system
- Built-in stage
- Advanced acoustics suitable for classical music events
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Eva Lind
- Julian Lloyd Webber
- Vladimir Spivakov
Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre
The Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre in Harbiye is a contemporary amphitheater with tiered seating for 3,972 spectators, making it the city’s most popular summertime outdoor venue. Designed in the form of ancient amphitheaters, it hosts a variety of music concerts and cultural activities during the warmer months.
Features:
- Seating capacity of 3,972, with additional VIP seats
- Designed as a modern take on an ancient amphitheater
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Dany Brilliant
- Goran Bregovic
- Tarkan
Turkcell Kuruçeşme Arena
Kuruçeşme Arena in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, is an outdoor event venue with a rich history of hosting renowned artists such as Depeche Mode, Rihanna, and Eric Clapton. Originally opened in 2005, the venue underwent redevelopment in 2012 and reopened in 2021, accommodating 2,500 to 7,000 people depending on the event.
Features:
- Outdoor event area with a capacity of 2,500 to 7,000 people
- Flexible layout
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Depeche Mode
- Rihanna
- Eric Clapton
Süreyya Opera House
The Süreyya Opera House in the Kadikoy district of Istanbul and restored in 2007, stands as one of the first opera houses on the Asian side of the city and is the home to the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet. It features a stunning facade adorned with masks of art, tragedy, and comedy and hosts a diverse calendar of performances throughout the year. The Opera House also houses a ballroom that can be used for more intimate events.
Features:
- Seating capacity of 570
- Ballroom capacity of 500
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
- Built-in stage
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Gedik Filarmoni Orkestrasi
- Rossini’s Kitchen
- Falstaff
Salon IKSV
Salon IKSV stands as a cultural crossroads, nestled between Galata and Şişhane. This venue’s innovative design, featuring a mobile stage system, allows it to transform seamlessly from an intimate jazz club to an experimental theater stage. With a capacity of 150 seated and 400 standing, Salon IKSV hosts a diverse range of events, from classical and jazz concerts to theatre performances and conferences.
Features:
- Seating capacity of 250
- Standing capacity of 400
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
- Built-in mobile stage system
- Multi-purpose layout
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Tamino
- Kardelen
- The Flabbies
IF Performance Hall
IF Performance Hall, with its roots in Ankara, has established itself as a prominent concert and entertainment venue. There are two branches of the hall. The Istanbul branch in Beşiktaş, opened in January 2017, while the Eskişehir branch joined in the autumn of 2018. Known for its lively concerts and entertainment events, both IF Performance Halls add a dynamic flair to Istanbul’s vibrant music scene.
Features:
- Seating capacity of 250
- Standing capacity of 400
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
- Built-in stage
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- AYNA
- Çağan Şengül
- Emre Fel
Volkswagen Arena
Situated within the UNIQ Istanbul cultural complex in Maslak, Volkswagen Arena is a multi-purpose indoor arena offering a versatile space for live events. With a capacity ranging from 4,500 to 5,800, the arena hosts concerts, fashion shows, award ceremonies, sporting events, and more. Its strategic location includes amenities like food courts, historic mansions, and exhibition spots, creating an immersive experience for event-goers.
Features:
- Seating capacity of 4,500+
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
- Built-in stage
- Food court
- Exhibition space
- 24 private lounges
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Hozier
- Bob Dylan
- Jack White
Dorock XL
Located in the heart of Kadıköy, Dorock XL is a massive venue that stands out as a host to concerts featuring some of Turkey’s most renowned musical acts. Beyond its impressive musical offerings, Dorock XL boasts a spacious lounge with both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a dynamic and versatile space for music enthusiasts. On non-concert nights, the venue transforms into a lively dance floor, a testament to Dorock’s popularity and its ability to cater to diverse entertainment preferences.
Features:
- Indoor and outdoor space for concerts
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- Stabil
- Aspova
- STAP
KüçükÇiftlik Park
Nestled in the Şişli district of Istanbul, KüçükÇiftlik Park stands as a multi-purpose open-air event area established in 2009. Located adjacent to Maçka Democracy Park, this expansive venue covers an area of 9,000 square meters and boasts a remarkable capacity of 17,000 people.
KüçükÇiftlik Park’s versatility shines through as it continues to host events both in the summer and winter months. The addition of the Mobile Salon enhances its capabilities, ensuring a seamless experience for diverse events throughout the year.
Features:
- Capacity: 17,000
- State-of-the-art sound system
- In-house lighting system
- Built-in stage
- Mobile Salon
Popular artists that have performed at the venue:
- David Guetta
- Lana Del Ray
- Iron Maiden
Jolly Joker
Jolly Joker stands as a beacon of musical diversity, with multiple venues spread across Istanbul. The brand is dedicated to making contemporary music and entertainment accessible, uniting large and diverse audiences through Turkey’s largest and most expansive network of concert venues. Designed with high-quality standards, Jolly Joker venues have become synonymous with vibrant performances and lively events.
JJ Arena, located in the Ataşehir Watergarden Shopping Mall, is a flagship venue within the Jolly Joker network. With a capacious area accommodating up to 3,500 people, JJ Arena is a central hub for music lovers. Boasting high-quality standards, it continues to serve as one of the main Jolly Joker venues in Istanbul.
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