İstiklal Caddesi

İstiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) is the heart of Istanbul's most modern district, Beyoğlu, built in the 19th century.

The city's most popular walking, shopping and snack street, currently reserved for pedestrians, is lined with boutiques, cafes, consulates, restaurants, galleries, cinemas and banks, with residential buildings above.

When 19th century travelers spoke of Constantinople (Istanbul) as the Paris of the East, they thought of the Grande Rue de Péra (İstiklal Caddesi) and its half-European, half-Asian culture.

The avenue starts at Taksim Square, the center of modern Istanbul.

Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi tram cars rattle and jingle along İstiklal Caddesi from Taksim Square to Tünel Square, just as they did in the 19th century heyday of this Europeanized corner of the Ottoman sultan's estates.

Halfway to the southwest is Galatasaray Square, easily recognized by the large gates of Galatasaray Lises, the first European-style lyceum (high school) built by the Ottoman government.

To the southwest of İstiklal Caddesi is Tünel Square, the upper station of 19th-century Beyoglu's small two-station metro train Tünel, and the southern terminus of the nostalgic İstiklal Caddes tram.

Come for shopping during the day, strolling in the evening, people watching, dinner at one of the many restaurants, a drink at a cafe or bar and music at a small night spot, but unfortunately İstiklal Caddesi is also a place where a well-dressed Turk who speaks excellent English approaches you, suggesting a chat and a drink – for robbery purposes, be careful.

https://turkeytravelplanner.com/go/Istanbul/Sights/Beyoglu/IstiklalCaddesi.html

Photo: Quinn Comendant