Best English Courses in Istanbul [2025]
Learning English while visiting Istanbul is not only a practical skill but also a unique way to immerse yourself in the city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere. Istanbul has long been a crossroads of cultures, and its language schools reflect this diversity. Today, the city offers a wide variety of reputable schools with flexible schedules, short-term programs, and expert instructors. Whether your goal is to brush up on your general English, prepare for exams like IELTS or TOEFL, or enhance your business English, you’ll find excellent options in central districts such as Taksim, Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, and Şişli. These areas are tourist-friendly, well-connected by public transport, and surrounded by vibrant cafés, cultural centers, and attractions.
Table Of Content
In this guide, we will explore the top English schools in Istanbul that cater to tourists, highlighting their programs, pricing, and special features.
Cambridge Academy Istanbul (Şişli)
- 📘 Program: Intensive General English (20 lessons/week)
- 💵 Price: From US$105 per week
- 👩🏫 Style: Small, interactive classes, communicative approach
- 🎯 Extras: IELTS & TOEFL exam preparation, flexible enrollment dates
- 📍 Location: Şişli, Beylikdüzü, Başakşehir
- 📞 Contact: +90 212 266 8906
English Time (Kadıköy & Beşiktaş)
- 📘 Programs: General English, Business English, Private Lessons, Exam Prep
- 🌍 Recognition: International accreditations, 100% learning guarantee
- 👩🏫 Teachers: CELTA & DELTA-qualified
- ⏰ Schedule: Weekdays, evenings, and weekends
- 📍 Locations: Kadıköy, Beşiktaş
- 🌐 Website: englishtime.com
- 📞 Contacts: Kadıköy: 0216 414 7822 | Beşiktaş: 0212 212 8800
British Time (Kadıköy & Mecidiyeköy)
- 📘 Programs: General English (Starter to Advanced, 108 hours per level)
- 👩🏫 Teachers: Native speakers for upper levels
- 🎯 Extras: IELTS, TOEFL, YDS preparation
- 🖥️ Tools: Smart boards, multimedia resources
- 🗣️ Clubs: Conversation practice sessions
- 📍 Locations: Kadıköy, Mecidiyeköy
- 📞 Contact: 0 444 84 63
- 🌐 Website: britishtime.com.tr
Just English (Kadıköy & Beşiktaş)
- 📘 Programs: General English (120 hours/month)
- 💵 Price: 999 TL (~US$60) per month
- 🏆 Recognition: Award-winning institution
- 👩🏫 Style: Group and private lessons available
- 📍 Locations: Kadıköy, Beşiktaş
- 📞 Contacts: Kadıköy: 0216 700 1007 | Beşiktaş: 0212 327 5507
Berlitz Istanbul
- 📘 Programs: Group & Private Lessons, Business English, Exam Prep (IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC)
- 🌍 Method: Berlitz Method (immersion & communication)
- 👩🏫 Teachers: Professional native speakers
- 🎯 Style: Intensive short-term or customized programs
- 📍 Locations: Multiple across Istanbul
- 📞 Contact: +90 212 211 1361
- 📧 Email: info@berlitz-istanbul.com
American Culture (Taksim & Beşiktaş)
- 📘 Programs: General English (84–96 lesson hours per level)
- 👩🏫 Class Size: Small groups (max 13 students)
- ⏰ Schedule: Weekdays, evenings, weekends
- 🎯 Extras: IELTS, TOEFL, YDS prep
- 📍 Locations: Taksim, Beşiktaş
- 🌐 Website: amerikankultur.org.tr
American LIFE Language Schools
- 📘 Programs: General English, conversation-focused courses
- ⏰ Schedule: Flexible, up to 7 days/week
- ⏳ Duration: 4–10 weeks (with accelerated summer options)
- 💻 Extras: Lifetime access to online learning materials
- 📍 Branches: Multiple across Istanbul
- 🌐 Website: americanlife.com.tr
Extra Tips for Tourists
- 📝 Placement Tests: Most schools provide free level assessments before starting your course.
- ⏳ Short-Term Packages: Ask about one-week or two-week intensive courses if your visit is brief.
- 🎭 Cultural Advantage: Studying in areas like Taksim, Kadıköy, or Beşiktaş allows you to combine your lessons with sightseeing, café-hopping, and cultural exploration.
- 💰 Variety of Prices: Costs range from budget-friendly options like Just English to premium institutions like Berlitz. Compare not only the price but also the class size and teaching style.
- 🤝 Networking: Language schools often host social events, conversation clubs, and meet-ups where you can practice English and make new friends from around the world.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in Istanbul for a short trip or a few months, the city offers excellent opportunities to improve your English while experiencing its rich culture. From affordable schools like Just English to internationally recognized names like Berlitz and Cambridge Academy, there is something for every budget and learning style. By choosing the right school in a convenient location, you can enhance your language skills, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy one of the world’s most vibrant cities to the fullest.
