Taksim Square 2024 (The Best Guide)
Taksim Square is almost the opposite of the historical Sultanahmet Square. This is the main square of the modern city center. There are no ancient sights on it, and it doesn’t mainly attract tourists who know it tangentially.
When pedestrians come from Istiklal, they usually take a short break here and take a few pictures against the backdrop of the central monument. The field is handy for us from a practical point of view.
What’s in Taksim Square?
Those renting a hotel in the Beyoglu region first come to Taksim from the airport. Let me remind you that Beyoglu is the second good area to settle there during a trip to Istanbul, but of course, it is less convenient than the Sultanahmet area. You can try the prices of the hotels in this area.
Secondly, Istiklal street starts from Taksim square. More precisely, the road ends in Taksim because most tourists come from the other end of Istiklal, Galata Tower. People arrive in Taksim, turn around and return or leave here by public transport. Make sure you visit Istiklal; it deserves it!
Third, this square is a good landmark and a great place to meet. If you get lost in this area, arrange a meeting in advance in Taksim near the monument. Any local will show you how to find this place.
Fourth, this is the upper funicular station. It is beneficial! Riding the funicular is interesting in itself. But the plus is that you can go down the hill and see the lovely views.
What to See in Taksim?
The monument locates in the middle of Taksim Square. This is, in fact, the only attraction that draws attention. Many believe the court doesn’t fit in its space, but this doesn’t prevent anyone from being photographed against its background.
Think about it, but besides the statues of Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, and the Turkish people, there is also a statue of Soviet Marshal Voroshilov. But it isn’t easy to understand exactly what this figure is; it can only speculate.
This is the local Arbat, starting from Taksim Square and almost reaching the Galata Tower.
The street is a must-visit as it is the area’s main attraction. There is a historical tram that you can get on. Musicians also perform here; there are many cafes and shopping centers.
Gezi Park locates next to the square. Tourists aren’t very interested, but you can look here if you need to hide from the hustle and bustle for a while. This is an ordinary city park, nothing beautiful except the scandals around it. In 2003, they wanted to demolish this place and build shopping centers. This caused severe long-term public unrest.
You should also see the street exhibits. Sometimes street exhibitions of photographs and paintings are held here. It’s an ordinary event held in many cities, but you can have a look at it as you pass by.
Taksim Mosque is one of the places you should see. It is enough to look outside, and the view is striking. It isn’t among the top ten mosques recommended to visit in Istanbul.
How to Get to Taksim Square in Istanbul?
Most of the time, they reach the square on foot while walking along Istiklal Street. But we’ll give you other standard tapping methods that might work:
· From Istanbul New Airport: The easiest way is to take the Havaist shuttle bus. Travel time is approximately 1 hour. Buses don’t come to the square itself but stop within 500 meters. To reach the court, you must proceed along Cumhuriyet Street, which runs along the park.
· From Sultanahmet Square: Take the light rail system T1 blue line and go to the last stop, Kabatas. You go to the lower station of the funicular from the underground passage and go to the upper station. Now you go into the city and find yourself right in the square.
When is Taksim Square Open?
Taksim square is always open.