Taksim Square to Galata Tower, Walk the Istiklal To Feel Istanbul

This short route from Taksim Square to Galata Tower is perfect to experience a mix of history, culture and shopping in one day. You can experience the energy of Istiklal Street and the charm of Galata's narrow streets. It is ideal for anyone who would like to see two of Istanbul's most famous landmarks in one short trip.

Getting to Taksim Square from Sultanahmet

From Sultanahmet, hop on the T1 Tram toward Kabataş. This is the last stop for the tram line. At Kabataş, take the F1 Funicular straight up to Taksim Square. You can use your Istanbulkart (the same card you used for the tram) for both rides. The trip is quick, cheap, and easy.

Taksim Square - The Heart of Modern Istanbul

Taksim Square is the city's most famous meeting point. It's home to the Republic Monument (built in 1928 to celebrate the founding of the Turkish Republic) and surrounded by hotels, shops, and restaurants.

Istiklal Street & The Historic Tram

Istiklal Street runs for a mile (1.4 km) from Taksim Square to Galata Tower. It's a pedestrian-only street, but the red historic tram still runs along its length. This tram is a nostalgic symbol of the city and a fun way to see the street without walking the whole way.

Landmarks Along the Way

While walking from Taksim to Galata, you'll see many historic spots:

• Hagia Triada Church: A beautiful 19th-century Greek Orthodox church near Taksim.

• Rumeli Han: An old passage filled with cafes and art spaces.

• Hüseyin Ağa Mosque: A 16th-century Ottoman mosque.

• Grand Pera Shopping Mall: Modern shopping in a restored historic building.

• Flower Passage (Çiçek Pasajı): Famous for restaurants and meyhanes (Turkish taverns).

• Galatasaray College: One of Turkey's oldest and most prestigious schools.

• St Anthony Church: The largest Roman Catholic church in Istanbul.

• Santa Maria Draperis Church: A historic Catholic church dating back to the 16th century.

• Galata Mevlevi Museum: Former dervish lodge with whirling dervish performances.

Galata Tower - History & Today

The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's oldest and most famous landmarks. It was built in 1348 by the Genoese as part of their fortifications. Back then, it was called the Tower of Christ.

• Watchtower - to spot fires and enemies.

• Prison - during Ottoman times.

• Legendary flight - In the 17th century, Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi is said to have flown from the tower to the Asian side using wooden wings.

Today, Galata Tower is a museum and viewing platform. From the top, you can see the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and the city's rooftops.