- My recommendation: Dreamers V&V Hotel Cihangir
- Location: Close to Taksim Square and İstiklal Avenue
- Pros: Vibrant shopping scene with both local and international brands. Diiverse dining options from street food to fine dining and lively nightlife.
- Cons: Can be very crowded, especially on weekends and noisy, particularly at night. Some areas may feel overly commercial or touristy
Taksim centers around Taksim Square, a major transportation node and a popular meeting point.
Stretching from the square is İstiklal Avenue, a 1.4 km long pedestrian street that is where you’ll want to visit. Walking down İstiklal Avenue is like taking a journey through the many facets of Istanbul - you'll pass by centuries-old churches and mosques, cutting-edge fashion boutiques, traditional Turkish delight shops, and bustling cafes all within a few blocks.
You can shop for stylish jeans at Mavi, a popular Turkish denim brand, browse through books at the iconic Robinson Crusoe 389, or admire exquisite Turkish glassware at Paşabahçe.
For dining, you might enjoy Ottoman-era cuisine at the historic Hacı Abdullah restaurant, try Circassian specialties at cozy Ficcin, or take in panoramic views while enjoying fusion dishes at the rooftop restaurant 360 Istanbul.
Notable attractions include the nostalgic red tram that runs the length of İstiklal, the 19th-century Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage) filled with traditional meyhanes, and the ornate Ağa Camii mosque.
. Popular nightspots include Babylon for live music and DJ sets, Indigo for electronic dance music, and Mask Live Music Club for rock performances.
Why I love it: Taksim is a place where the city's energy is at its most palpable.
Best hotels in Taksim
- Best boutique stay: Dreamers V&V Hotel Cihangir. This charming boutique hotel has individually designed rooms and a cozy atmosphere, it's perfect for creative travellers seeking an authentic local experience in a hip area of Istanbul.
- Best for art enthusiasts: Endless Art Hotel-Special Category. As its name suggests, this unique hotel is a haven for art lovers. Featuring an extensive collection of contemporary artworks throughout its premises, it offers a visually stimulating stay.
- Best for Bosphorus views: Loop Hotel Bosphorus İstanbul. This modern hotel offers stunning views of the Bosphorus strait. With its sleek design, rooftop terrace, and rooms overlooking the water, it's perfect for travellers who want to enjoy Istanbul's iconic waterfront scenery.
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