Taksim Square
The central hub of modern Istanbul, Taksim Square is a major transport nexus and gathering point. It's dominated by the Republic Monument, commemorating the founding of the Turkish Republic.
“To feel the pulse of contemporary Istanbul and use it as your main transport hub to explore the city.”
See the exact spot on the map at right. The highlighted pin clearly marks this stop.
Taksim Square is the functional heart of the city, where the main metro lines converge and buses fan out to every district. It's less a traditional 'square' and more a vast, open transportation roundabout, always pulsing with activity. The focal point is the Republic Monument, a large sculpture by Pietro Canonica unveiled in 1928 to mark the republic's fifth anniversary. From here, you can easily walk down the famous İstiklal Avenue or catch transport to almost anywhere in Istanbul.
Crossing the square itself is chaotic; use the underground pedestrian passages for a safer and faster route to the metro or other sides.
The square surface is flat but very crowded. The metro station and underground passages have elevators and escalators for step-free access.
Keep going in Beyoğlu
A few places that pair well with this stop on the same day.
İstiklal Avenue
A 1.4-kilometer pedestrian street running through the heart of Beyoğlu. It's the city's main artery for strolling, shopping, and people-watching.
Galata Bridge
The bridge that crosses the Golden Horn, connecting Eminönü and Karaköy. It's a working piece of the city where people fish, commute, and watch the ferries come and go.
