İstiklal Avenue
The pedestrian avenue from Taksim to Tünel, with a nostalgic tram running down the middle.
Images: Envato (licensed)
Beyoğlu & Karaköy · Not within walking distance
Why visit?
To see another side of Istanbul — lit shop windows, arcades and crowds in the evening.
Short History
The avenue has been the liveliest axis of Beyoğlu since the 19th century. The nostalgic tram returned to service in 1990.
About
İstiklal Avenue runs for about 1.4 kilometres between Taksim Square and Tünel. A red nostalgic tram runs down the middle; from the Tünel end you can walk down to Galata Tower.
What to know before visiting
No special notices.
How to get here from Meşale
Route from Meşale that we use ourselves: Taksim · İstiklal · Galata
- Walk 8 min towards Sultanahmet
- T1 Sultanahmet → Kabataş
- F1 Kabataş → Taksim
The last rail service is around 00:00; plan your way back in advance if you stay out late.
Your map app calculates the time from live traffic, so we don't print a fixed figure here.
Our walking routes stay within Sultanahmet; this place is reached by public transport.
Get DirectionsView on Google MapsReservation at MeşaleVisit Information
- From Meşale
- Public transport · 3.2 km as the crow flies
- Area
- Beyoğlu & Karaköy
- Hours
- Open area
- Ticket
- Free
Highlights
- Red nostalgic tram
- Walk from Taksim to Tünel
- Arcades and historic buildings
Tags
Source & Freshness
- Source:
- Wikipedia — İstiklal Avenue
- Sources:
- Last checked:
- November 1, 2026
Hours and prices are for guidance only. Please confirm with an official source before your visit.