Istanbul October 2025 Events: Concerts & Festivals Guide
October is one of the best months to visit Istanbul. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the city is full of life. You can enjoy world-class concerts, art exhibitions, and food festivals surrounded by the beauty of autumn. From the Istanbul Biennial to the Akbank Jazz Festival, there is always something happening in every corner of the city.
If you plan to combine sightseeing with cultural events, try the 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour or relax on a Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Cruise between festival days.
Major Festivals & Events
Istanbul Cultural Route Festival (September 27 – October 5, 2025)
Although it starts in late September, most events continue into early October. Galatport come alive with open-air concerts, art installations, and local performances. Concerts take place daily at 20:30. They are free to everyone. Here’s the schedule for the upcoming performances in Galatport at Clock Tower Square:
- Sept 27th, Saturday – Bengü
- Sept 28th, Sunday – Ferhat Göçer
- Sept 29ht, Monday – Merve Özbey
- Sept 30th, Tuesday – Resul Dindar
- Oct 1st, Wednesday – Haluk Levent
- Oct 2nd, Thursday – Oğuzhan Koç
- Oct 3rd, Friday – Suzan Kardeş & Serkan Çağrı
- Oct 4th, Saturday – Murat Boz
- Oct 5th, Sunday – Fatma Turgut
Oktoberfest Istanbul 2025 (October 4–6, 2025)
Enjoy beer tastings, delicious street food, and live music in a friendly setting inspired by the German tradition.
Bosphorus International Folk Dance & Music Festival (October 17–21, 2025)
A colorful event where folklore groups, orchestras, majorettes, modern dance groups, choirs and music bands from all over the world perform traditional shows in Istanbul. You can find all details about the festival on internet including participation rules, registration forms, and program updates if you wish to take part in the event.
IST.Festival (October 10–12, 2025)
A creative platform that blends art, cinema, music, literature, architecture, design, photography and fashion by international artists. It celebrates the city’s modern cultural spirit.
Istanbul Cocktail Festival 2025 (October 11–12, 2025)
The city’s most exciting drink festival. Expect live DJ sets, creative cocktails, and gourmet food trucks in a vibrant atmosphere.
212 Photography Istanbul (October 11–20, 2025)
A top photography event featuring exhibitions, talks, and workshops across galleries and public spaces.
35th Akbank Jazz Festival (October 17–31, 2025)
One of Turkey’s most beloved music festivals. The Festival was held in a wide range of venues including Akbank Sanat, Aya Irini Museum, Babylon, Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall, Zorlu Center PSM, where it featured numerous major jazz artists as well as artists from other genres.
29th Istanbul Theater Festival (October 20 – November 22, 2025)
A large celebration of performing arts with plays, dance shows, and international stage projects.
Ars Electronica Istanbul (October 21–28, 2025)
Hosted at Zorlu PSM, this digital art and media festival explores the connection between technology and creativity.
18th Istanbul Biennial (September 20 – November 23, 2025)
Running through October, the Biennial turns Istanbul into a giant art space. Its 2025 theme, “The Art of Standing Upright”, focuses on resilience through creativity.
What Is The Weather Like In October?
October weather is perfect for walking and exploring. Temperatures stay around 18–23 °C in the daytime and cool off in the evening. A light jacket is enough. Occasional rain gives the city a romantic atmosphere.
Parks such as Gulhane, Yildiz, and Emirgan Grove are full of golden leaves, making them ideal for a peaceful stroll.
Exhibitions & Art Galleries
Besides large festivals, October offers smaller art events and gallery shows. Pera Museum, Salt Galata, and Arter often launch new exhibitions this time of year.
Walking around Galata, Karakoy, and Istiklal Street, you can see temporary art installations and street performances.
How To Buy Tickets With Biletix?
Biletix is the official ticket platform for concerts, sports, theater, and festivals in Turkey. It is safe and easy to use. Follow these simple steps:
- Visit www.biletix.com.
- Type Istanbul in the search box to view current events.
- Choose a festival, concert, or match you want to attend.
- Check event details, location, and date carefully.
- Click “Bilet Al” (Buy Ticket).
- Log in or create a new account.
- Select seats if needed and confirm your payment.
- Your e-ticket will be sent to your email.
Most venues accept digital tickets on your phone. Still, it is a good idea to save a screenshot. Popular events such as Akbank Jazz Festival or Istanbul Cocktail Festival sell out quickly, so book early.
Extra Tips For October Visitors
- Wear layers because the evenings are cooler.
- Try local foods such as roasted chestnuts or Turkish tea on rooftops in Karakoy.
- Visit Istiklal Avenue during the Cultural Route Festival to see live street shows.
- Spend a calm afternoon in Kadikoy on the Asian side for seaside cafes and vintage shops.
- Don’t miss Republic Day celebrations on October 29, which include concerts and fireworks.
October 2025 will be a remarkable month for art and culture lovers in Istanbul. From international jazz to street photography and digital art, every week offers a new reason to explore.
Plan your trip early, buy your tickets through Biletix, and make the most of your stay. If you want to combine these cultural experiences with local sightseeing, contact us to book private tours and make your Istanbul visit unforgettable.