Post Overview: Helpful tips for visiting Taksim and Turkiye to the first time.
Taksim is a famous district in the heart of the European part of Istanbul with all its historical buildings, architectural monuments, old and modern constructions, shops and cafes and of course with its world well-known red nostalgic tram. It’s the place where the majority of all guided city tours begin.
Taksim is translated as “division” in Turkish and it has a historical explanation. In the 18th century there was a station that gathered all the water from Belgrade’s wood and then the water was divided among all the districts of Istanbul.
What to seeTaksim Square
Taksim square looks like a circle divided into 4 parts. At the sections between pedestrian sideways there are flower-beds, trees and shrubs. In the center of the square you can see the monument “Republic” that was built in 1928 in honor of 5 years of a republican system of government. It is dedicated to Turkey’s struggle for independence and its turning into republic.
Taksim square has a very nice location so that the majority of all tour itineraries go through it. From Taksim square you can easily get to Galata tower, walk down the Istiklal street and reach Gezi park.
Istiklal Street
Istiklal street is one of the main pedestrian zones of Istanbul and it’s popular with both locals and visitors. It’s a heart of hotels, cafes, restaurants, bookshops, souvenir shops and bakeries to suit any taste. Along the Istiklal street you can go by its famous red nostalgic tram. Read all details about Istiklal Street
Gezi Park
Gezi park is a little green location amidst the hustle and bustle of Taksim district. It’s not as famous as, for example, Emirgan park, but it’s a lovely place to take a break from the heat and fuss of the city.
Galata Tower
Galata tower is not very close to Taksim square but you can easily get there either by bus or on foot down the Istiklal street. It’s a famous historical building, besides, it a terrific viewpoint with a beautiful prospect to Bosphorus strait and Golden Horn. read more Galata Tower
Where to stay?
There is a variety of hotels in Taksim for any taste and budget, but it’s better to keep in mind that the district is rather noisy at daytime and its nightlife is colourful as well, so Taksim is not very suitable for a calm family vacation. Here is our pick of hotels and hostels of Taksim.
Where to stay
In Taksim, you can find out the tastes of different cuisines from every region of Turkiye such as hot and spicy oriental cuisine, Aegean cuisine with virgin olive oil and various herbs, Bosphorus fishes, types of dough and ravioli as well as the tastes of world cuisines.
Fiore Pizzeria Italian
You can try Italian delicacies such as Fiore Pizzeria Italian Restaurant Ta Melanzane Alla Parmagiano, Carpaccio Di Manzo, Filetto Alla Gorgonzola, Tortillini Formatge, Panna Cota, Tiramisu.
Asmali Mescit Dürümcüsü
Cozy Ambiance, Lip Smacking Food, Cute Little Place, Great Recommendations, Good Portions
Things to entertain kids
With kids you can go to cafes and try local delights, go to Gezi park with its playground, reach Galata tower and take a look from its viewpoint, use underground funicular railroad to go to the pier and finally – ruffle all cats fur that you meet on your way as there are too much of them in Istanbul!
Miniaturk
Miniaturk is spreading over an area of 60,000 square meters. 15,000 square meters of area, as well as 300 parking spaces, restaurants, cafeterias, souvenirs, exhibition halls, outdoor playground area, children’s playground, ferry, remote boat, sightseeing train, fairy tale tree, Mini Stadium ‘ 4 adults, when you visit the maze of chess and Turkey-Istanbul tourism Miniatürk Simulation teacher, thought something.
Ticket Price: 90 Turkish lira/ per person Buy Miniaturk Ticket
Important Note: Unfortunately, balloon tours are not organized in Istanbul. For the balloon tour, we recommend travelling 1-3 days tours to Cappadocia. Read our blog to visit Cappadocia at the best time
