During my stay in Istanbul over the past five days, it occurred to me that taking a stroll along the city’s popular Istiklal Street is something that never gets old.
This three-kilometer long, pedestrian-only avenue on the European side of the city acts as the heart of the shopping/entertainment/nightlife district of Beyoglu, with an endless variety of both local and international stores, bookshops, cafes, restaurants, meyhane, food stalls, chestnut vendors, bakeries, bars, clubs, shisha cafes, tea houses and so much more lining both the street itself as well as the dozens of tiny lanes that branch off on both sides.
And the other night, as I found myself in Taksim Square, which lies at one end of Istiklal Street in Istanbul, I thought that you might be interested in joining me for a walk through this area…
(Warning: This is actually more of a sprint than a walk!)
*For those reading this post as an email, you’ll need to click here and visit my site to view the video. It’s not possible to embed the videos in the email unfortunately.
Have you been to Istiklal Street in Istanbul? Have you been to Istanbul in general? Is it on your list of places to visit?
Join 21,000+ people and get your weekly travel inspiration.
New blog posts, honest updates from my 21 years of constant travel, personal recommendations and the best of travel from around the world.
[…] pedestrian street. Just imagine a mile-long avenue filled with feasts, music, and cinemas. The place will surely cater to your entertainment needs by day and night. The bars and nightclubs make sure […]
Hey Ranjitha – Everything from the Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia to Istiklal Street (at night) to Galata to taking the ferry to the Asian side and so much more. Just wander around this city and you’ll have great experiences…it’s hard to go wrong in Istanbul!
Just landed today in Istanbul Earl,
staying at Agora per your recommendation.
Love the cats, love the noise, … tomorrow Isiklal.
If you have any Hamam recommendation, do let us know.
I hate to bring up scams in Istanbul because I had positive experiences during my month in Turkey but it was certainly an experience that informed my time there. I’m sure you would have been engaged in multiple interactions walking on that iconic strip. I feel Istanbul is one of the most ascendant cultural capitals in the world, there’s an energy there.
Of all the places I’ve visited in the Middle East, Istanbul was definitely one of the highlights. It seems Istiklal Street is one of the best places to get a feel for the diversity and multicultural character of Turkey. You can have a traditional Turkish breakfast and tea and go shopping at Western clothing stores in the morning, see Turkish people performing an impromptu traditional dance in the middle of the street in the afternoon, and finish the day off at an Irish pub in the evening. All within a one mile radius!
What a great video. It played straight through without having for it to wait and load. What are the lights strung across the street for? Any particular reason, or are they always there. It looks like a happening place for sure. Loved the little detour!
Love love love LOVE ISTANBUL. I so could live there one day. I spent 2 weeks there recently and wanna go back to spend more time. I love that city really is where WEST meets EAST. I love that at every turn you find something beautiful. I loved walking everywhere.
Ah Istanbul. Why you always make me envy with your posts! And Istanbul is definitely the core. I always wanted to go there, for one sole reason.
You know how Turkey is the center of two biggest nations in the world European and Asian and how Eurasian derived and stuffs and so being a Muslim and to look at people with their Caucasian look with blue eyes and blonde hair and greeting you with ‘Assalamualaikum’ (the kind of Muslim way to say hello) is kind of ‘different’. Awesome in a way. No no. Not racist. It is the kind of awe and amaze feelings of how world has so many different races and colors and roots but still at some point, religion unites people.
Way too glib if that may sound but the point is, I love Turkey, Istanbul in particular obviously! The weather, the architectures, the foods, the people everything! Been reading to Constantinople and Byzantine era and Roman and Ottoman empire etc. Turkey is one of a kind. History makes me nerd, in a good way. You know when you were a kid and you went to candy store and you were so happy you can pick almost about everything, I was that happy when it comes about Istanbul, my candy country.
I call Turkey ‘the fusion land’ as being bordered with so many countries make Turkey different at its best, don’t you think ey?
Hey Kerol – Turkey certainly has a unique feel to it and absolutely does offer a visitor an incredible mix of culture, religion, history, architecture, etc. I think more and more people are discovering its appeal these days as Istanbul itself is becoming quite a popular tourist destination. And I agree with you, its location does make it a ‘bridge’ between cultures, which is why so many people are fascinated by this country.
Hey Shane – Actually, we did go for some nargile right after we finished making the video. Maybe I’ll make a video of that during my next visit to Istanbul 🙂
I actually used to walk the length of Istiklal nearly every morning, because it was the most direct route to work. It’s always magical, but lemme tell you, it can get old.
Wow!ingborid orhi thanks for this, I feel like I’m back there in the buzz that is Istanbul! It is always an exciting place and I imagine you’ve stirred a few happy memories for many people! Make the most of it.
That video was actually in slow motion. Earl walks very fast – at least for me since I’m half his height…and since you’re half mine, you’d have to be at full sprint 😀
Hey Deniz – I guess you haven’t seen how my brain works 🙂
Deniz
March 30, 2012 at 5:16 pm
A trip to Istanbul is long overdue for me, you’re right. Now if I could only figure out the pin to Anil’s bank account, I’d be able to buy a ticket tomorrow. But I’m using my time here to prepare myself so that I’ll be able to cream you guys in any race. I’ll be back with a vengeance! 🙂
Earl
March 30, 2012 at 6:25 pm
The challenge has been accepted. And surely Anil should fly you to Istanbul…I’ll work on it.
I am going to have a 8 hour long layover in Istanbul. Is it possible to get a glimpse of Istanbul then and what would you recommend to do/see/eat for example? 🙂
Hey Mikaela – It all depends on which airport you are flying into…if you are flying into Ataturk, you could take the metro/tram over to Sultanahmet (it takes about 1 hour from the airport) where you could visit the main sights – the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. That would definitely be worth it 🙂
Hey Nicole – It’s a great walk, one that I do almost every evening whenever I’m in Istanbul. I vaguely remember the main street in Pisa…I guess I’ll have to go again to confirm their similarities 🙂
Hiya Earl, I so envy you and your travels but I just realized how much I miss Istanbul and my family after watching you stroll around Beyoglu. I am a Turk living in the US, a slave to the corporate world often wondering why I cannot do what you have been doing.
Please visit Asmalimescit and Cihangir while you are in the area and you must definitely post more videos.
I do hope you make some Turkish friends because Turks are all nomads, just like you.
Cheers
Evrim
Hey Evrim – I am back in the US right now but when I go back to Istanbul in a month I will try to visit those areas you mentioned! And I will definitely make more videos, that’s for sure. Perhaps I shall see you out here one day…just remember, if the corporate world is not what you want, you have the power to change your life!
[…] pedestrian street. Just imagine a mile-long avenue filled with feasts, music, and cinemas. The place will surely cater to your entertainment needs by day and night. The bars and nightclubs make sure […]
[…] – Stroll along the İstiklal street […]
Wandering Earl, there is a mistake because the Istiklal Street is in the Asian side of Istambul
Hey Norma – Istiklal Street is actually on the European side 🙂
Sorry, you are right. Very nice the video. Thanks
Hi,
just got introduced to your wonderful blog.
Could you suggest the absolute must dos in Istanbul
am planning to spend at least a week there.
thanks
Hey Ranjitha – Everything from the Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia to Istiklal Street (at night) to Galata to taking the ferry to the Asian side and so much more. Just wander around this city and you’ll have great experiences…it’s hard to go wrong in Istanbul!
Just landed today in Istanbul Earl,
staying at Agora per your recommendation.
Love the cats, love the noise, … tomorrow Isiklal.
If you have any Hamam recommendation, do let us know.
See you somewhere down the road!
Hey Hans! Glad you’re enjoying Istanbul and Agora! As for a Haman, check out this one: https://www.cemberlitashamami.com/
I hate to bring up scams in Istanbul because I had positive experiences during my month in Turkey but it was certainly an experience that informed my time there. I’m sure you would have been engaged in multiple interactions walking on that iconic strip. I feel Istanbul is one of the most ascendant cultural capitals in the world, there’s an energy there.
Of all the places I’ve visited in the Middle East, Istanbul was definitely one of the highlights. It seems Istiklal Street is one of the best places to get a feel for the diversity and multicultural character of Turkey. You can have a traditional Turkish breakfast and tea and go shopping at Western clothing stores in the morning, see Turkish people performing an impromptu traditional dance in the middle of the street in the afternoon, and finish the day off at an Irish pub in the evening. All within a one mile radius!
Hey Hannah – That is a great summary of Istiklal Street and probably the reason why most travelers love this area!
Great video at some speed! Love Istanbul and just wish we could get there more often.
Hey Judy – Thanks for watching! And Istanbul certainly is a city that one could visit over and over again without getting bored at all.
What a great video. It played straight through without having for it to wait and load. What are the lights strung across the street for? Any particular reason, or are they always there. It looks like a happening place for sure. Loved the little detour!
Hey Jan – I’m not sure what the lights are for exactly but they have always been there as far as I can remember. Just some decoration I guess.
I’ll be there for a week in June. Can’t wait. Love your posts 🙂
Hey Dorota – You will have a great time!! It’s such an amazing city…let me know before you go as I might be there myself in June 🙂
Love love love LOVE ISTANBUL. I so could live there one day. I spent 2 weeks there recently and wanna go back to spend more time. I love that city really is where WEST meets EAST. I love that at every turn you find something beautiful. I loved walking everywhere.
Hey Jaime – I’m glad you loved Istanbul as well! It really is one of my favorites these days and I can’t seem to get enough of that city myself.
Hey Earl
Ah Istanbul. Why you always make me envy with your posts! And Istanbul is definitely the core. I always wanted to go there, for one sole reason.
You know how Turkey is the center of two biggest nations in the world European and Asian and how Eurasian derived and stuffs and so being a Muslim and to look at people with their Caucasian look with blue eyes and blonde hair and greeting you with ‘Assalamualaikum’ (the kind of Muslim way to say hello) is kind of ‘different’. Awesome in a way. No no. Not racist. It is the kind of awe and amaze feelings of how world has so many different races and colors and roots but still at some point, religion unites people.
Way too glib if that may sound but the point is, I love Turkey, Istanbul in particular obviously! The weather, the architectures, the foods, the people everything! Been reading to Constantinople and Byzantine era and Roman and Ottoman empire etc. Turkey is one of a kind. History makes me nerd, in a good way. You know when you were a kid and you went to candy store and you were so happy you can pick almost about everything, I was that happy when it comes about Istanbul, my candy country.
I call Turkey ‘the fusion land’ as being bordered with so many countries make Turkey different at its best, don’t you think ey?
– Kerol –
Hey Kerol – Turkey certainly has a unique feel to it and absolutely does offer a visitor an incredible mix of culture, religion, history, architecture, etc. I think more and more people are discovering its appeal these days as Istanbul itself is becoming quite a popular tourist destination. And I agree with you, its location does make it a ‘bridge’ between cultures, which is why so many people are fascinated by this country.
Hopefully I will see you there one day!
What, no stops for a nagile?
Hey Shane – Actually, we did go for some nargile right after we finished making the video. Maybe I’ll make a video of that during my next visit to Istanbul 🙂
Really enjoyed the vid Earl. Would love to see it for myself one day and hopefully I will :).
Hey Forest – I’m sure you will see it! How’s things in NZ??
I actually used to walk the length of Istiklal nearly every morning, because it was the most direct route to work. It’s always magical, but lemme tell you, it can get old.
@sarahlizp – That’s a great street to walk down every morning, but I guess after awhile the magic does begin to wear off, just like with anything 🙂
Wow!ingborid orhi thanks for this, I feel like I’m back there in the buzz that is Istanbul! It is always an exciting place and I imagine you’ve stirred a few happy memories for many people! Make the most of it.
Hey Connie – Glad you have some good memories of Istanbul…it is one of those cities that is hard not to love!
That was great! Almost made me feel like I was there, except I can’t walk that fast. :))
That video was actually in slow motion. Earl walks very fast – at least for me since I’m half his height…and since you’re half mine, you’d have to be at full sprint 😀
I am NOT half your height! We are the same height when I stand on the sidewalk and you’re on the street. Thank you and GOOD DAY. >:(
Hey Anil – Are you and Deniz ready for an Istiklal race??
If it’s a race to food, I’ll definitely win.
The race is on…isn’t it about time you made it back to Istanbul anyway???
Hey Deniz – It’s funny because as we were walking down the street Anil told me that you walked slower than anyone he knows 🙂
It’s funny he said that because Anil’s brain works slower than anyone I know! 😉
Hey Deniz – I guess you haven’t seen how my brain works 🙂
A trip to Istanbul is long overdue for me, you’re right. Now if I could only figure out the pin to Anil’s bank account, I’d be able to buy a ticket tomorrow. But I’m using my time here to prepare myself so that I’ll be able to cream you guys in any race. I’ll be back with a vengeance! 🙂
The challenge has been accepted. And surely Anil should fly you to Istanbul…I’ll work on it.
Hi!
I am going to have a 8 hour long layover in Istanbul. Is it possible to get a glimpse of Istanbul then and what would you recommend to do/see/eat for example? 🙂
Hey Mikaela – It all depends on which airport you are flying into…if you are flying into Ataturk, you could take the metro/tram over to Sultanahmet (it takes about 1 hour from the airport) where you could visit the main sights – the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. That would definitely be worth it 🙂
That looks awesome – and a really fun walk. It remind me of the main street through Pisa in Italy!
Hey Nicole – It’s a great walk, one that I do almost every evening whenever I’m in Istanbul. I vaguely remember the main street in Pisa…I guess I’ll have to go again to confirm their similarities 🙂
Hiya Earl, I so envy you and your travels but I just realized how much I miss Istanbul and my family after watching you stroll around Beyoglu. I am a Turk living in the US, a slave to the corporate world often wondering why I cannot do what you have been doing.
Please visit Asmalimescit and Cihangir while you are in the area and you must definitely post more videos.
I do hope you make some Turkish friends because Turks are all nomads, just like you.
Cheers
Evrim
Hey Evrim – I am back in the US right now but when I go back to Istanbul in a month I will try to visit those areas you mentioned! And I will definitely make more videos, that’s for sure. Perhaps I shall see you out here one day…just remember, if the corporate world is not what you want, you have the power to change your life!