Located on the European side of Istanbul, Taksim is not just a neighbourhood; it is a symbolic centre that unites the city's historical past with its modern face. From the Ottoman Empire to the Republic, from art to entertainment, from shopping to religion, many elements come together here. Taksim and its surroundings are an indispensable route for those who want to feel the spirit of Istanbul. So, what to see in Taksim? Where to visit in Taksim? Where to in Taksim? And how to reach Taksim? Let's explore together 👇
What to See in Taksim: Istanbul's Vibrant Heart Explored
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🏛️ Taksim Square and Surroundings
Taksim Square
Named after the 18th-century “taksim” process by which waterways were divided and distributed throughout the city, this square symbolises the transformation of Istanbul's public spaces. Modern Taksim has been the centre of social movements, celebrations and commemorations in various periods.
Republic Monument
Built in 1928 by Pietro Canonica and installed with the contributions of architect Giulio Mongeri, this monument tells the story of both the War of Independence and the founding of the Republic. It attracts attention with statues of important figures such as Atatürk, İsmet İnönü and Fevzi Çakmak.
Taksim Mosque
Opened in 2021, Taksim Mosque combines classical Ottoman mosque architecture with modern elements. With a capacity of 3,000 people, the mosque is an important place of worship in the region. The lower floor houses art galleries, a library and social service areas.
Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM)
First opened in 1969, AKM was closed for a long time after a fire in 2008. Reopened in 2021 with the design of architect Murat Tabanlıoğlu, the building hosts international opera, ballet, concert and theatre events. It includes large and small halls, art galleries and cafes.
🛤️ Istiklal Street and Historical Buildings
Istiklal Street
This 1.5-kilometre street, which stretches from Taksim to Galata, has been the centre of Istanbul's socio-cultural life since the 19th century. Neo-classical and art nouveau buildings, consulates, art galleries, historic arcades and nostalgic trams characterise the street.
Flower Passage
Built in 1876 and originally known as the “Cité de Péra”, it was named the “Flower Passage” after the noblewomen who fled the court of the Russian Tsar and sold flowers here. Today, it is famous for its traditional taverns.
St. Antuan Catholic Church
The largest Catholic church in Istanbul, this building belongs to the Franciscan order. The Gothic church is still open for worship and receives a lot of visitors, especially during the Christmas season.
Galatasaray High School
Founded in 1868 as Mekteb-i Sultani, this institution is one of the symbols of reform in education from the Ottoman Empire to the present day. The entrance gate in its garden and its historical building are among the most striking buildings on Istiklal Street.
🎨 Museums and Cultural Sites
Pera Museum
Opened in 2005, this museum belongs to the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation. Its collections include orientalist paintings, Anatolian weight measurements and Kütahya tile ceramics. The museum also hosts international exhibitions.
Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum
Founded in 1491 by İskender Pasha, it was the first Mevlevihane in Istanbul. Mevlevi dervishes used to perform sema performances and Sufi music. Today it operates as a museum, exhibiting dervish clothes and musical instruments.
Madame Tussauds Istanbul
Opened in 2016, the Istanbul branch exhibits wax sculptures of many local and foreign celebrities such as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Barış Manço, Zeki Müren, and Michael Jackson. It is located in the Grand Pera building on Istiklal Street.
Source: Pera Müzesi
🌳 Natural and Social Areas
Taksim Gezi Park
Opened in 1939 as part of Henri Prost's urban planning, the park is one of the rare green spaces in the centre of Istanbul. Formerly known as the Pangaltı Cemetery, today this area has walking paths, benches and resting areas.
Cihangir and Çukurcuma
Known as the heart of bohemian life, these neighbourhoods attract artists, writers and young entrepreneurs. Antique shops in Çukurcuma offer retro objects and a nostalgic atmosphere. The view of the Bosphorus can be seen from the Cihangir Mosque.
🏰 Historical Buildings and Monuments
Galata Tower
The tower, which was built by the Genoese in 1348, is 67 meters high. The rumour that Hazerfen Ahmet Çelebi flew from Galata to Üsküdar on wings is based on this tower. In 2020, it was restored, and the panoramic viewing terrace was made more modern.
Taksim Maqam
Built in 1731, this octagonal structure is the centre where the water from Topuzlu Bendi is distributed to the city. It shows Baroque architectural features. Today, it is occasionally used for cultural events.
🚇 Transportation and Travel Tips
Transportation: Transportation to Taksim is quite easy. You can easily access the M2 metro line, Kabataş-Taksim funicular line (F1), IETT buses and minibuses. Airport buses also provide transportation to Taksim.
Walking: Taksim and its surroundings are ideal for sightseeing on foot. Istiklal Street and side streets are closed to vehicular traffic, making exploration enjoyable.
Time to Visit: Early mornings or weekdays are ideal for a more enjoyable trip away from the crowds.
Safety: It is recommended to be careful of pickpockets in crowded places. Bags and wallets should be kept in sight.
🧭 Little Known But Interesting Points
Istanbul Cinema Museum (Atlas Passage):
Opened in 2021, this museum conveys the important moments and personalities of Turkish cinema history to its visitors with a modern presentation. There are exhibitions ranging from Yeşilçam films to digital cinema. The museum also draws attention with its interactive sections and special exhibitions.
Asmalımescit
Very close to Istiklal Street, this neighbourhood is famous for its nostalgic street lamps, cobbled streets and historic buildings. Known for its vibrant nightlife, especially in the 2000s, Asmalımescit continues to be an alternative point of attraction with its bars, boutique cafes and art galleries.
French Consulate and Notre Dame de Sion Garden:
The French Consulate on Istiklal Street also represents Istanbul's French cultural influence. The garden of the adjacent Notre Dame de Sion High School is occasionally opened to the public for cultural events. It is a symbolic point to understand Taksim's multinational past.
Source: Beyoğlu Atlas Sineması
🕍 Different Religious and Ethnic Structures
Hagia Triada Greek Orthodox Church:
Located close to Taksim Square, this magnificent church is one of the largest Greek Orthodox churches in Istanbul. It was built in 1880. The building, which attracts attention with its two bell towers and large dome, is still actively used.
Surp Hovhan Vosgeperan Armenian Catholic Church:
Built in 1840, this church is one of the oldest Armenian Catholic places of worship around Taksim. Despite its simple exterior, the interior is decorated with elegant ornaments. The church, where regular services are still held today, is an important representative of the Armenian heritage in the region.
🎭 Theatre, Art and Alternative Culture Venues
Akbank Sanat (Aksanat):
Opened in 1993, Akbank Sanat hosts contemporary art exhibitions, film screenings, concerts and theatre plays. Supporting cultural diversity, this centre is especially known for supporting young artists.
Ses Theater (Ortaoyuncular Theater):
Built in 1915 and first used as a movie theatre, this building was later transformed into a theatre under the leadership of Ferhan Şensoy. It has a special atmosphere that makes you feel the transformation of performing arts from the Ottoman Empire to the Republic.
Salt Beyoğlu:
Located on Istiklal Street, this cultural institution is known for its research-based exhibitions, talks and archival work. Operating in the renovated building of the former Siniossoglou Apartment, Salt represents the intellectual face of Istanbul.
Source: Salt Galata
📚 Historical Passages
One of the characteristic elements of Taksim and Istiklal Street is the historic arcades. They are not just passageways, but gateways to the past.
Atlas Passage is home to both the Atlas Cinema and the Istanbul Cinema Museum. Built in the 1870s, this building still carries the splendour of its era.
Syria Passage was once home to newspapers and printing houses, and today it is a centre full of bookstores and alternative shops.
Hazzopulo Passage is famous for its tea garden, offering a peaceful respite in the middle of Istanbul.
These passages reveal not only the modern face of Taksim but also the transformations it has undergone throughout history.
Source: Istanbul Valiliği
🍽️ Food and Drink Culture Recommendations
Taksim and its surroundings offer a wide variety of delicacies for every palate. However, some places hold a special place because they are both nostalgic and reflect the local fabric.
Kızılkayalar is a late-night saviour with its famous wet hamburger.
Hacı Abdullah Lokantası serves the most traditional examples of Ottoman-Turkish cuisine; the dishes served on copper plates are like a journey into the past.
For Turkish coffee aficionados, Mandabatmaz is known for its thick, frothy coffee.
In addition, the Lebanese, Iranian and Afghan restaurants hidden in the side streets make you feel the cosmopolitan nature of Taksim on your palate.
Source: Hacı Abdullah Lokantası