One of the most visited places in Istanbul is Taksim square which is located in Beyoğlu the European part of the city. This square is known as a transfer point for residents where they can meet easily in a place full of shops of everything, amazing buildings, and cultural centers. Taksim square as an ideal tourist attraction is famous for its luxury hotels, Turkish restaurants, and historical significance. There is a well-known Republic Monument situated in the heart of this square and Pietro Canonica was made because of keeping the memory of the formation of the Turkish Republic.
Taksim square in Istanbul
Taksim is located in a great position in Istanbul because it was an area to divide the water to other parts of Istanbul and also due to this reason, it was named “Taksim”. When you walk down Istiklal Street, the street parallel to Taksim Square, you can see colors and local life which reflect Istanbul culture. Taksim Square and Istiklal Street are filled with restaurants, hotels, shops, and food joints, these streets are perfect spots to experience and explore everything about your destination on the way.
Istiklal Street in Taksim
Istiklal Street is a long street and continues from Taksim Square to the Karakoy area, and moreover, one of the oldest trams which date back to approximately one hundred years ago breaks through it. There are some religious places like the Hossein Agha Mosque and the domed church, and also some tourist places like the “Madame Tussauds” wax museum whose foundation dates back to 4 years ago.
Istiklal street and its restaurants
After you finish walking in Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, you can enjoy eating in restaurants which are surrounding Taksim square and Istiklal streets like a series of international fast-food restaurants or local restaurants. Al Madina Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurants and has great fame among Arabs because the most professional and famous chefs who Burak heads, work in it. Moreover, this restaurant provides a wide range of Lebanese and Turkish foods in an amazing way with wonderful offers. There are also the Sultan Ahmed Kaftisi Selim Usta restaurant and 360 Istanbul Restaurant on Istiklal street that has distinctive views.
Best resorts in Taksim square
Taksim is one of the best areas of Istanbul because of its hotels. The hotels of Taksim are distinguished because of their variety and can meet all tourists’ tastes. The hotels which are located in Taksim square are among the richest and most diverse hotels and surrounded by the Bosphorus, Taksim Square, the historical city, and others. Point Hotel Taksim, Divan Taksim Hotel, and Elite world Istanbul hotel Taksim are the 5 stars hotels on this street.
Enpera Hotel Taksim, Nippon Hotel Taksim, and Titanic Hotel Taksim are the 4 stars hotels, and finally, Istanbul Autopera Hotel, Taksim Star Hotel, and Cihangir Istanbul Hotel are 3-star hotels of Taksim square.
Taksim square at night
Taksim street at night is a place where everyone can witness many movements in it. In the Istiklal street of Taksim square, life is bustled until midnight. You can also see artists or many music bands who are spread along the street, where their musical instruments are enjoyable for people.
Things you can do and see in Taksim square
There are a lot of things to see on Taksim street like the nostalgic tram, Gezi park, the monument, the domed church of Aya Triada, Huseyin Aga Mosque, etc. In fact, this is the most famous square in Turkey and Istanbul. Walking around this square, passing Istiklal street, and watching people in a lively atmosphere can be one of the memorable things to do in Taksim square.
Best time for visiting Taksim square
Spring and summer are the perfect seasons for tourism in Taksim. In these months the daytime temperature is between 15°C-20°C, and you can experience the perfect weather, walk in a long street and enjoy food and shopping. Shops in Taksim street are open after 10 am and between 7 pm – 8 pm, so it is recommended to visit the square early to see the art, talent, and culture without any hassle also in the afternoon, you can enjoy the tranquil, golden sunset.
Where is Taksim square?
Taksim square is situated in the northern part of Istanbul and its address is Gümüşsuyu, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul in Turkey. The longest distance from Istanbul airport to Taksim square is 55 kilometers.
Some tips you should know about visiting Taksim square
- Nowhere is safe in the world, especially if you are a woman, so avoid dangerous situations.
- There are police and necessary personnel in every street of Taksim, so if you need them or feel unsafe do not hesitate to approach them.
- A 9 to 5 schedule can help you to enjoy Taksim square completely.