Taksim (Taksim Meydani) is a square, as well as a micro-district in Istanbul, which is part of the large Beyoglu district.
Here is the border between the old and new quarters of the capital. The place is very busy, as it is a major transport hub and people come here to see the many sights in the vicinity of the square, for example, the 12-meter Republic monument (built in 1928), the 19th century Holy Trinity Church, the Galata Tower. It is also from here that the most famous Istiklal Street in Istanbul begins, where numerous hotels, shops, restaurants, bars and nightlife are located and where there are always a lot of tourists.
The name of Taksim Square is translated as “separation”, since until the end of the 19th century, water from forest sources was distributed from here. Currently, most of the tourist routes around the city start from here. All sorts of festive events and mass celebrations are also held here. Nearby is the Taksim-Gezi Park, which is a good place to relax.
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What to see in Taksim district
- The famous Taksim-Gezi Park, one of the smallest, but very popular parks in Istanbul
- Galata Tower, medieval aged tower in the Galata Quarter, one of the most famous buildings in Istanbul
- Istiklal street – a long pedestrianized shopping street, with many shops, hotels, pubs and restaurants, and also with a lot of street musicians.
- Holy Trinity Church
- And many other places.
Taksim district on the map of Istanbul
How to get to Taksim
To get there by metro and funicular, you need to get off at the station of the same name – Taksim. If this is your first time in Istanbul or you need to get to the hotel quickly and directly, it is better to book a taxi in advance.
Read more about Istanbul airports and taxi transfers.
Istanbul Airport (New Airport)
Buses of two routes go to the Taksim, Beyoglu districts: HVIST-16 (Havaist company) and H-2 (municipal). Depending on the location of the hotel, choose the most convenient for you.
Sabiha Gokcen Airport
From Sabiha airport to Taksim can be reached by direct Havabus buses (it takes about 40 minutes, it all depends on traffic jams).
Sultanahmet, Fatih
From Sultanahmet and Fatih can be reached depending on the location of your hotel by tram or metro.
Kadikoy district.
From the Kadikoy pier, the Harem bus station and the Haydarpasa railway station area, you can take bus number 110.
Hotels in Taksim
There are a lot of hotels here, and mostly they are expensive and luxurious. But if you want, you can always find inexpensive options, such as staying in a hostel with a shared bathroom or renting a separate small room. There are enough options, because this place is very popular with tourists.
There are both modern buildings and old ones, which are completely rebuilt inside to meet the needs of the most demanding tourists.