Istiklal Avenue

Istiklal Avenue is a very long street that is closed to vehicle traffic in Beyoglu district on the European Side of Istanbul.

The historical buildings that started to be built at the end of the 19th century on both sides of Istiklal Avenue, which was formerly called "Grand Rue de Pera" and has a length of approximately 2.5 kilometers from Taksim Square to Tunel, are spectacular. Istiklal Avenue, which is a kind of open-air museum that keeps the traces of history with its stylish doors and windows, is like an open-air shopping center with many famous brands today.

The Republic Monument, Galatasaray High School, Pera Museum, Saint Pierre Church, Panagia Church, Santa Maria Draperis Church dated 1789, The Armenian Church, Pera Palas Hotel dated 1892, Galata Mevlevi Lodge, Tunel Square, Hussein Agha Mosque, Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage), and Swedish, Russian, Dutch, French and British Consulates are just a few of the must-see points on Istiklal Avenue.

In addition to the shopping opportunities, the place where there is the opportunity to reach the tastes suitable for palatal delights along the avenue, although in a small number, it also includes modern shopping centers.

In general, Istiklal Avenue is a cosmopolitan attraction center where there is a bright and intense circulation. It is full of surprises with its various shops and passages. Its back streets that are surrounded by churches and various entertainment venues are quite interesting and waits for being explored. Besides, Istiklal Avenue is often called "The Heart of Istanbul".