Squares and Popular Streets of Istanbul

Updated Date : 22 February 2026

Squares and Popular Streets of Istanbul

All over the world, there is a particular place: the squares. Meeting points for friends, love stories, meeting places for protests. These are the places where people get out of work and cross paths. Maybe you want to sit in a cafe and have a coffee. Perhaps you want to walk the streets and take photos. But can't you choose which street and which square? 
We are leaving you alone with our article just below. Enjoy strolling.

Taksim Square

Open the map and choose a point where you will show it as the center of Istanbul. That is Taksim Square. We can call it a region that is a crucial point to every area you want to reach. It is also the most important square in the Beyoglu region. It is a square within walking distance to offices, parks, walking paths, stadium, beach, bus and metro stations, shopping streets, restaurants, and cafes. Isn't that what we call a square anyway?

istanbul Taksim Square

Istiklal Street

It is one of the streets in the center of our lives with its history and day. This street, formerly known as Grand Rue de Pera, has been a center from the past to the present. It plays a significant role in trade as well as for entertainment and shopping. It is a valuable place to visit with its street artists and colorful side streets.

istiklal Street istanbul

Kadikoy Square

We can say that Kadikoy Square is the Taksim Square of the Asian continent. Maybe just being by the sea makes it different. Its most prominent feature is that it is intertwined with the residential area, just like Kadikoy itself. This square tells a lot, not only with its cafes, restaurants, and workplaces but also with its mini markets and spirit.

Kadikoy Square

Ortakoy Square

It is a miraculous square right next to the Bosphorus. You can create a sweet memory, especially at sunset; you can do this with ice cream or baked potatoes. Mecidiye Mosque is located right by the sea, in this square. It will be open to visiting and waiting for you to take photos and tag us.

Ortakoy Square

Eminonu Square

This crowded square, where the historical peninsula greets you, is Eminonu Square. The Spice Bazaar shares its place in the square with the New Mosque. You come across some coffee shops and some cafes. Those who visit in the early hours of the day will see the city having a fresh start. Spice and coffee scents spread from the opened shops. Enjoy it before the crowd comes.

Eminonu Square

Sultanahmet Square 

A square in the center of history. Sultanahmet or "Blue Mosque" Square is one of the best-known squares. It is a center of history dating back to the 7th century BC. It hosts the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome. It is a meeting point. And we can say that it is also the starting point.

Sultanahmet Square

Divan Road

The road to the "Divan" or the Imperial Council is one of the most well-known streets of the historical peninsula. It is wonderful that this street, which has witnessed history, hosted the Eastern Roman and Ottoman Empires. Divan Yolu is a road starting from Sultanahmet Square and extending to Beyazit Square. It is not only a famous historical road but also one of the most used roads by tourists. Be careful when crossing the street; you will come across the tram. 

Bagdat Street

Upper East Side of Istanbul. But this time on the Lower East Side. We can also call it Istanbul's Champs Elysees. Bagdat Street is our new favorite with its luxury boutiques, branch stores of big brands, quality restaurants, and stylish cafes. It is an extensive street compared to many places you will visit in Istanbul. On this street, which is pleasant to walk, you can also see the locals taking their dogs and walking them around.

What is the most famous Street in Istanbul?

Istiklal Street is the most well-known street in Istanbul. Hosts for 3 million visitors on a normal day.

What is the most famous square in Istanbul?

Taksim Square is the most famous square in Istanbul, with the famous Istiklal Street opening to it. Also, it is hosting the famous Gezi Park at the square.

What can I find on these famous streets?

Cafes, restaurants, shopping stores, and boutiques and offices make the streets lively, colorful, and interesting.

Which is the nicest street/square of Istanbul?

All of the streets/squares have different and very personal vibes. At all of them, you experience different things.

Get Free Guidebook
I want to receive emails to help me plan my trip to Istanbul, including attraction updates, itineraries & exclusive E-pass holder discounts on theatre shows, tours, and other city passes in adherence to our data policy. We do not sell your data.