Istanbul E-pass includes Istiklal Street and Taksim Square Audio Guide Tour in Engilsh.
You will experience many things on Istiklal Street Istanbul like cafes, restaurants, cinemas, street food, and many more. It is entirely as famous as Oxford Street in London. Ottoman-era buildings and historical monuments surround the entire area of Istiklal Avenue. The total length of Istiklal Street is about 1.5 km and is a pedestrian street.
On Audio guide tour, you will have chance to listen history and detailed explanations of highlights in Taksim Square and Istiklal Street. Ataturk Culture Center (AKM) then Taksim Mosque which gives nice ambiance to Square with its architect. Our tour will continue on Istiklal Street - the most popular and crowded street of Istanbul. On Route, we will see Hagia Triada Church, French Consulate, Armenian, Greek & Catholic Churches, Flower Passage, Galatasaray High School, British Consulate, Fish Market, St. Antony Church, Vintage Red Tram and many historical buildings.
For your convenience, we will provide you with information on Istiklal Street and the best attractions to explore on Istiklal Street Istanbul.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
Madame Tussauds is an international chain that displays replicas of celebrities made by wax. However, we have provided you with the complete guide on Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Istanbul. It is situated on Istiklal street inside the Grand Pera building, an almost 2000 square feet structure. You can visit Madame Tussauds free of cost if you have Istanbul E-pass. It is open every day, and the timings are 10:00 to 20:00.
Flower Passage
It is a popular arcade that visitors may not want to miss while visiting Istiklal street due to its importance and history. Back in 1870, Russian refugees used to sell flowers here at flower passages. So this place has a different kind of vibrancy to experience.
The Majestic Cinema
It is situated on Istiklal street although it is modern cinema but with a vintage look. They run both Turkish shows and English language films. The capacity is smaller than the usual cinema, but the vibrancy is extraordinary. So if you're looking for something new taste, we suggest you watch a Turkish show there.
The Atlas Arcade
It has been here since the 1870s, and it is included in the list of renovated locations damaged by fire. It is still Istanbul's one of the most famous landmarks, and tourists love to visit the atlas arcade, which has different restaurants and shops. You will experience how local Turks used to live there and how they socialize their daily lives.
Vintage Red Tram
These vintage red trams are the famous trams that run on Istiklal avenue. Your trip won't be completed if you didn't ride these historical trams working for decades now. This is a perfect example of Turkey's historical culture. You can also use it for transportation on Istiklal Street Istanbul.
Nevizade Street
It is one of the best night time entertainment areas, situated on the backside of flower passage right in the middle of Istiklal street. Visitors can enjoy the hotels and cafes there which are famous for their taste of food. So nevizade street would be a perfect place for you to enjoy nighttime Istanbul.
Fish Market
It is also situated near a flower passage, and it is a historic fish market. There are a variety of fish sellers selling different kinds of fish in the market, and you don't need to worry about the authenticity of the fish here. You may also see the shops in the market selling vegetables and food. So if you're a tourist here, you can also shop here for your food.
French Consulate
The beautiful building of the French Consulate is situated at the start of Istiklal street. You can also take French lessons here as it is also a French cultural center. There is also an Armenian catholic church behind the consulate.
French Street
French Street is located around Galatasaray Square, in the middle of Istiklal Street, which shows the french style. French Street was previously known as Algeria Street, and it provides a good taste of French and French style buildings and cafes enhance the vibrancy.
Hagia Triada
This church also shows the history as it is linked to the 1880s, and it is situated at the entrance of Istiklal street and can be seen by everyone. So we suggest you have a look inside this church and you won't regret it.
Shopping on Istiklal street
It is the primary thing to do when you visit any other place except your homeland to buy souvenirs for your loved ones. There are a lot of shopping areas and specific shops on Istiklal street where you can go and buy products. As Istiklal street is crowded, we recommend you go there a little bit early for shopping. Shopping in Istanbul always helps you make memories.
Galatasaray Hamam
It was built by Sultan Beyazit the 2nd in 1481, and its location is also along the Flower Passage. It is the best place to experience 500 old Turkish hammam cultures.
Antoine of Padua Church
It was built by the Italian architect Giulio Monger and is also known as St Antoine's Cathedral. Antoine of Padua is one of the biggest churches in Istanbul and is an Italian-style church that also has the most prominent Catholic community.
What Makes Istiklal Street So Popular in Istanbul?
Istiklal Street is one of Istanbul's most iconic and bustling avenues, drawing millions of visitors each year. This pedestrian-friendly street, located in the Beyoğlu district, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. Its popularity stems from its diverse offerings, including cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. The presence of historical landmarks like the Hagia Triada Church and cultural icons like the Vintage Red Tram adds to its charm. Whether you're shopping for unique items, enjoying Turkish street food, or exploring Ottoman-era architecture, Istiklal Avenue caters to all tastes.
Why Is Taksim Square Considered the Heart of Istanbul?
Taksim Square is more than just a transportation hub; it is a symbol of modern Istanbul and a gathering point for locals and tourists alike. This iconic square is home to landmarks such as the Taksim Mosque and the Republic Monument, which commemorates the founding of the Turkish Republic. Surrounded by bustling streets, luxury hotels, and vibrant nightlife, Taksim Square acts as a gateway to Istiklal Street and beyond. It is also a popular venue for public events, protests, and celebrations, reflecting its central role in the city's social and cultural life.
How Long Is Istiklal Street, and What Can You See Along It?
Stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers, Istiklal Street offers a walking journey through history and modernity. This pedestrian-only avenue begins at Taksim Square and extends to the Galata Tower area. Along the way, visitors can marvel at a variety of attractions, including historical churches such as the St. Antony of Padua Church, the Flower Passage, and the Fish Market. The Vintage Red Tram, a symbol of Istiklal Avenue, adds a nostalgic touch as it runs along the street, connecting key locations.
What Is the Historical Significance of Taksim Square?
Historically, Taksim Square has been a focal point for political, social, and cultural events in Istanbul. Its name, derived from the Ottoman-era water distribution system ('Taksim' means distribution), reflects its historical importance in the city's infrastructure. The square has witnessed major events, including protests and celebrations, cementing its place in Turkey's modern history. Landmarks such as the Republic Monument and the recently built Taksim Mosque showcase the square's blend of tradition and progress, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Istanbul.
What Are the Must-See Highlights on Istiklal Street?
Istiklal Street is filled with must-see attractions that cater to diverse interests. Key highlights include the Hagia Triada Church, a stunning example of Greek Orthodox architecture, and the St. Antony Church, known for its Neo-Gothic design. Visitors should not miss the Flower Passage, a historical arcade filled with lively restaurants, or the nearby Fish Market for fresh seafood delicacies. The Galatasaray High School, one of Turkey's oldest educational institutions, stands as a reminder of the street's rich past. And, of course, hopping on the Vintage Red Tram is an experience in itself, offering a unique way to explore Istiklal Avenue.
The Final Word
Istiklal Street is one of the busiest and famous streets where tourists visit to make memories and cherish their moments. Istiklal street is full of restaurants, cafes and shopping spots so you will never get bored. Your visit to Istanbul would be incomplete without visiting Istiklal street.