Although there are no gay exclusive cinemas/movie theaters in Istanbul, some heterosexual porno/erotic movie cinemas are frequently visited by gay men. Because of Turkey's bisexual culture it's possible to have at least some limited action in most of such places. In several of these venues, gays are really welcomed. But still better be a little discrete , because they are open to everyone. If you go to any one of these venues listed below, first observe a little what is happening around you, and you will easily discover how it works. 

Although not very frequent, beware of pick pockets when you get in close-contact with anyone. Typically these venues are dark and depressive (which might be exciting for some people) and not very clean. There are regulars of each cinema easily recognizable from their relaxed attitudes and try not to get in conflict with them, and "have some respect" if you do not want to go through a row. Otherwise the tourists are very welcomed by Turkish people. The main focus of the cinema-lovers are to seduce "straight" guys who happen to go in by chance (!), when they are at the peak of their horny mood, but versatile gay men are also always around.

In addition to the entrance fee, you are expected to pay extra tip to the staff inside when you enter - something like 1 Lira- for the sake of showing your seat even if they don't do it at all sometimes. Also you pay another 1 lira for using the WC inside the cinemas. This is a ritual for almost all cinemas in Turkey, and please do not be funny and make a fuss about it assuming they are are ripping you off just because you are a tourist. You will see all locals pay this. It is heard very rarely that they may ask you to pay more than regular price on entrance. To avoid this check the price  which is stated clearly on a sign-board somewhere at cashier's desk. The fee is paid on entree as you can guess.

Istiklal Caddesi is closed to traffic and busy day and night,

 RUYA SINEMASI : (12:00-21:00)
Istiklal Caddesi No:128, Taksim/Beyoglu. Just on the main avenue Istiklal closed to traffic, somewhere in the middle on the right-hand side when you enter from  Taksim square. Most popular and relaxed one near Taksim, althogh the staff sometimes pretends to be very strict about walking around the seat rows. Bear and bear-lover types are also possible. They show  terrible  erotic movies of 1980's here, so you can guess why would any one go there otherwise.

Visitor Feedbacks:
"even by the entrance you will see people cruising... crazy shit... worth having a look!! have fun (Date: 09/05/2008)"

 DILBAZLAR SINEMASI  : (12:00-21:00)
Istiklal Cad, Beyoglu. On the first left side street from Sadri Alisik Street. If you have a chance form the regular guys who act like they own the venue. Neighborhood Ruya cinema is usually better.

 GUNES SINEMASI : (12:00-21:00)
Cakiraga Mahallesi, Kurkcubasi Kulhani Sokak, No:5, Aksaray. From Aksaray to Yenikapi (A sea-side town along Marmara Sea) take the right turning from street next to Police Headquarter. After walking about 300 meters climb up the steps. It's at the entrance floor of a 4-5 floor building on the left of the street ahead of you. The most popular one

 AYDIN SINEMASI : (12:00-21:00)
Millet Caddesi, Findikzade-AKSARAY (On the main road from Aksaray to Findikzade district)

  

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