Beyoğlu has been ever present as a vibrant, rich cultural hotspot, and a fan favourite location for many visitors all over the world. A popular hive of activity that stretches for over 1 km. And now with some fabulous new developments, visitors and tourists will be taken on a wonderful journey of connection from the old to the new of important landmarks, places of interest across the district. An unmissable experience awaits starting from the newly developed Galataport, taking you through the depths of the narrow streets of Karaköy and beyond, through the charm and simplicity and sophistication of İstiklal Caddesi and gradually winding up to the innovative and newly transformed Taksim Square.
Where İstanbul Unwinds
Beyoğlu is a true symphony of culture when East meets West and the pulsating heartbeat of İstanbul’s day and nightlife. İstiklal Caddesi - a cobbled thoroughfare teeming with İstanbul’s colourful people - is the centre of the metropolis, while around it a labyrinth of narrow, winding alleys with funky cafés, soulful bars, continental restaurants, historic cinemas, prominent theatres, and exclusive shops stretches in all directions. Taksim Square, with its impressive Monument to the Republic, points the way to the bohemian open-air museum of Beyoğlu, past the Hagia Triada Orthodox Church and the Consulate buildings. The İstanbul Nostalgic Tram quaint old but the most recognised red trams in the world takes passengers past Rumeli Han, Çiçek Pasajı, Cite de Pera, Atlas Pasajı, Galatasaray High School and several elegant consulates.
Every year the Beyoğlu Culture Route Festival, the İstanbul International Film Festival, the İstanbul International Music Festival, the İstanbul International Theatre Festival, and the İstanbul International Jazz Festival are held here and in the surrounding districts. The district is also home to the Beyoğlu Emek Cinema, which hosts the annual Filmekimi film festival.
