Istanbul: Belly Dancing, Show, & Dinner at Sultanas Ticket

Istanbul: Belly Dancing, Show, & Dinner at Sultanas Ticket offers a lively, traditional night out right in the heart of Istanbul. For around $62 per person, you’ll get a 2.5-hour evening packed with eye-catching performances, delicious food, and a taste of Turkey’s famed dance traditions. Located conveniently near Taksim Square and major hotels, this experience is perfect for travelers seeking an entertaining, culturally immersive activity without straying too far from the city’s bustling center.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the combination of authentic performances and delicious, well-timed food—especially the chance to see famous belly dancers perform right in a classic Ottoman-style setting. The traditional folk dances and lively theater add to the immersive atmosphere, making this more than just a dinner show. Another highlight is the optional shuttle transfer, which simplifies logistics and ensures you arrive and depart comfortably.

A possible consideration is that this isn’t a luxury experience—it’s lively and fun, but it’s not a high-end dinner with a quiet ambiance. The reviews suggest it’s a lively, somewhat informal show, which may not suit those seeking a more relaxed or quiet evening.

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy live performances and cultural shows, and who want to combine entertainment with a flavorful meal. It’s particularly good for first-timers wanting a taste of Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife without overcomplicating plans.

Key Points

• Authentic Turkish entertainment: Traditional folk dances and renowned belly dancers in a classic Ottoman cabaret setting.
• Value-packed experience: Includes a 3-course meal and unlimited soft drinks, with optional alcohol and shuttle transfer.
• Convenient location: Close to Taksim Square, hotels, and central Istanbul, making logistics easy.
• Authentic atmosphere: Intimate, theatrical setting that enhances the cultural feel of the show.
• Flexible options: Choose packages based on drink preferences and transfer needs, plus full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Mixed reviews: While many praise the performances and food, keep expectations realistic regarding the lively, informal atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Setting and Atmosphere

Arriving at Sultanas, you step into an Ottoman-style cabaret that feels both welcoming and vibrant. The venue isn’t a floating boat or a tourist trap; it’s a land-based hotel located right in the heart of Istanbul. The interior exudes a traditional, theatrical charm, with tables reserved for your group. The ambiance is lively, with a stage set for performances and a sense of anticipation hanging in the air.

The Performances

The highlight, of course, is the belly dancing—a Turkish cultural icon that draws crowds from all over the world. Reviewers like Jonathan and René describe the dancers as “beautiful” and “fantastic,” emphasizing the quality and skill on display. We loved the way the dancers’ movements combined grace with energy, capturing the traditional essence of Turkish dance.

Alongside belly dancing, you’ll enjoy folk dances and theatre, which add a storytelling element to the evening. Wolfgang mentions the show as a “nice combination of folk dance, belly dance, and storytelling,” making it more than just a visual spectacle—it’s an engaging cultural performance.

The Food and Drinks

The 3-course dinner is a significant part of the value here. Although the specific dishes aren’t listed, reviews mention the food as “good” and “well timed,” ensuring you’re well-fed without long waits. Many packages include unlimited soft drinks, while others offer alcoholic options, which adds a relaxed, social vibe to the evening. René notes the experience as “good food, and beautiful belly-dancer to a cheap price,” reflecting a good balance of cost and quality.

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Logistic Details

Guests can opt for shuttle transfers, which makes arriving and leaving stress-free, especially if you’re staying in central Istanbul. The pickup process is straightforward: arrive at your hotel lobby 10 minutes early, and a driver will meet you with a sign showing your last name. The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, generally starting in the evening—perfect for a leisurely night out after a day of sightseeing.

Considerations and Cautions

While many reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a formal, upscale dinner experience. Expect a lively, energetic show rather than a quiet, sophisticated evening. Also, the venue is on land, but travelers should be wary of scammers posing as similar-sounding companies offering boat-based experiences. Always book through official channels, as advised.

Who Will Enjoy This the Most?

This experience suits those who want an authentic, lively Turkish night with excellent performances and good food without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see traditional dance and folk culture in a theatrical setting. It’s also great for groups or couples looking for a fun, relaxed evening that combines entertainment with meal options.

However, if you prefer a quiet, intimate dinner or have mobility issues, you might find the lively atmosphere a bit too energetic. Keep in mind it’s a social, energetic environment that appeals most to those wanting to soak in Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

1. Arrival and Seating

Once you arrive at Sultanas, you’ll be shown to your reserved table. The venue’s interior reflects Ottoman elegance, with warm lighting and a stage centrally located for optimal viewing. This allows everyone a good vantage point for the performances.

2. The Performances Begin

As the show kicks off, the stage is filled with professional belly dancers known throughout Turkey, as well as traditional folk dancers. Based on reviews, the dancers are skilled and engaging, with some reviewers describing them as “beautiful” and “fantastic”. Watching their costumes shimmer and their movements flow makes for a captivating experience that captures the essence of Turkish entertainment.

The show lasts about an hour, giving enough time to enjoy multiple performances, including storytelling through dance, which adds depth and context. The lively music and costumes help transport you into a different world, making it more than just a dinner but an immersive cultural event.

3. Dinner Service

During the performances, your three-course meal is served. Expect a well-timed sequence of dishes that keep you engaged without long waits. Since many reviews mention good food, you can anticipate a satisfying meal, whether included in your package or as an upgrade. Soft drinks are available free-flowing, and alcohol can be added if you opt for drinks package options.

4. Interaction and Atmosphere

The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming. It’s designed to be fun and engaging, rather than formal or stiff. Many reviews highlight the “intimate atmosphere,” which enhances the overall experience. It’s a good place to relax, enjoy the performances, and perhaps take some photos, although it’s wise to be respectful of performers’ space.

5. Departure and Logistics

After the show, if you’ve booked the shuttle service, a driver will take you back to your hotel. If not, you can easily arrange your own transportation, as the venue is centrally located. The activity ends back at the initial meeting point, making pickup and drop-off straightforward.

Final Thoughts

This tour at Sultanas provides a solid cultural night out for travelers seeking entertainment rooted in Turkish tradition. The performances are the star, with top-quality belly dancers and traditional folk dancers that captivate and delight. Coupled with a three-course meal and optional drinks, it offers good value—especially for those interested in experiencing Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife without venturing too far from the city center.

While it’s lively and informal, it’s also a great introduction to Turkish dance and culture, especially if you’re curious about the country’s iconic belly dancing traditions. The experience’s charm lies in its authenticity and accessibility, making it suitable for most travelers looking for a fun, culturally rich evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children who enjoy lively performances and are comfortable in a bustling environment. However, since it involves a 2.5-hour show with potentially loud music and energetic performances, younger children might find it overwhelming.

Are drinks included in the price?
Soft drinks are often included, with options for unlimited consumption in some packages. Alcoholic drinks are available if you select a package that includes them. Check your booking details to see what’s included.

How do I get to the venue if I don’t book the shuttle?
The venue is centrally located near Taksim Square and major hotels. You can easily arrange your own transportation, such as a taxi or public transit, from your accommodation.

Can I cancel my booking for a full refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change.

Is this experience suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
This activity isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments, as it involves seated performances but may have stairs or uneven pathways.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is fine for this lively evening. Since it’s an indoor venue, dress comfortably but neatly—think light layers, as Turkish evenings can be cool.

To sum it up, if you’re after an authentic taste of Turkish entertainment with lively dance performances, good food, and an easy-to-access location, this Sultanas show is a solid choice. It’s a fun, engaging way to spend an evening in Istanbul—especially if you love vibrant performances and cultural experiences that don’t break the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: