Istanbul spans two continents, with the Bosphorus strait dividing its European and Asian sides, and the city’s social life is as varied as its geography. It is a huge metropolis where very traditional and very modern ways of life exist side by side, so dating norms depend a lot on the circles you move in. Family remains important for many people, hospitality is taken seriously, and tea is the default excuse for a conversation. Taking the ferry across the Bosphorus is part of daily life and a lovely setting for a date.
On the Asian side, Kadıköy and the seaside neighborhood of Moda are known for their young, creative and relaxed atmosphere, with bookshops, markets and a seaside park where people gather at sunset. On the European side, Cihangir and Karaköy are artistic and café-filled, Beşiktaş is lively and student-heavy, and Balat, along the Golden Horn, is known for its colorful historic houses. Turkish is the everyday language, and English is more common among younger, university-educated residents. Be aware that attitudes to LGBTQ+ people vary widely and public Pride events have been banned in recent years, so many LGBTQ+ Istanbulites keep their networks private.
The foodies tribe suits one of the world’s great food cities, and the book lovers tribe fits the cafés of Kadıköy. Souldaters is completely free, and nobody can message you until you have both liked each other, which offers welcome privacy. Friends mode helps newcomers find company to explore the city.
Tribes to join in Istanbul
Tribes work everywhere. Join a few and filter Discover to people nearby who share them.
First date ideas in Istanbul
- Take a public ferry across the Bosphorus between Europe and Asia, ideally around sunset.
- Watch the sunset from the seaside park in Moda, a favorite gathering spot on the Asian side.
- Walk the Bosphorus shoreline from Bebek to Rumelihisarı, passing the historic fortress.
- Visit Emirgan Park in April, when it is filled with tulips for the annual tulip festival.
- Take a ferry to the Princes' Islands, which are largely car-free, and cycle or walk around Büyükada.
- Wander the colorful streets of Balat and Fener along the Golden Horn.
How to make friends in Istanbul
- Join a language exchange, which are common in Kadıköy and Beyoğlu.
- Join a hiking or running group exploring the Belgrad Forest north of the city.
- Take a class in Turkish cooking, ceramics or calligraphy to meet people with shared interests.
- Get involved with a book club or cultural association, many of which are based on the Asian side.
More ideas: how to make friends in a new city.
The vegan & plant-based scene in Istanbul
Istanbul has a small but growing number of vegan restaurants, mostly in Kadıköy and Beyoğlu, and Turkish cuisine offers many naturally plant-based dishes, such as olive oil-cooked vegetables, lentil soup and meze.
Meet plant-based people in Istanbul through the Vegan and Vegetarian tribes, and switch on the free "Only show vegans" filter.
Dating in Istanbul: FAQ
Is there a free dating site in Istanbul?
Yes. Souldaters is free for everyone in Istanbul, with no premium tier and no paid boosts. Likes are private and chat only opens after a mutual match, so nobody can send you unsolicited messages. Profiles are only visible to logged-in members, which adds a layer of privacy.
Where can I meet vegan singles in Istanbul?
Kadıköy and Beyoğlu have most of Istanbul's vegan restaurants and cafés, and many traditional dishes are naturally plant-based. On Souldaters you can join the vegan tribe and use the free dealbreaker filter to see only vegans, or vegans and vegetarians, living in the city.
How do I make friends in Istanbul as an expat?
Istanbul is huge, so pick a neighborhood and build routines there. Language exchanges, hiking groups, classes and book clubs are good ways to meet people, and learning Turkish opens many doors. Souldaters Friends mode and the expats tribe help you find people nearby, and chat opens once you have both waved.