Travel writing based on first-hand experience
Not sure what to do in Beyoglu Istanbul? Discover both hidden gems and classic experiences in this vibrant district packed with history and local charm.
Exploring Beyoğlu? Read these next
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- What to Do in Karaköy Istanbul
- Shopping in Istanbul: Best Streets and Historic Passages
- Best Things to Do in Istanbul at Night
- Hidden Gems in Istanbul
- Best Local Experiences in Istanbul
- Best Art Galleries in Istanbul
- Istanbul Museums Guide
- Best Views in Istanbul
- Best Places to Visit in Istanbul
- Ultimate Istanbul Itinerary
- Where to Stay in Istanbul
Table of Contents
1. Taksim Square
Taksim Square is one of Istanbul’s busiest and most spacious pedestrian areas, recently redesigned to eliminate vehicle traffic and create a more open walking environment. Here you’ll also find the Taksim Mosque, the Republic Monument, Atatürk Cultural Center, and Gezi Park.
Construction on Taksim Mosque began in 2017 and it opened for worship in 2021. The Republic Monument, symbolizing the War of Independence and the Republic, was created by Italian sculptor Pietro Canonica with help from two young Turkish artists, Hadi Bara and Sabiha Bengütaş, and unveiled in 1928.
The Atatürk Cultural Center was first conceived as an opera house in 1936-1937 but was delayed due to wars and economic hardship. It opened on April 12, 1969, as the “Istanbul Cultural Palace,” but was damaged by fire in 1970. Reopened in 1978 as the Atatürk Cultural Center, it served as a cultural venue until the 2000s. After a major restoration, it reopened in 2021.
Gezi Park is a large city park located right on Taksim Square, ideal for a cool break in the shade of green trees.
2. Istiklal Avenue
İstiklal Avenue is the heartbeat of Taksim. It’s alive 24/7, lined with shops, historic buildings, cafes, cinemas, arcades, churches, and art galleries. The Historic Nostalgic Tram runs along this avenue from Taksim Square to Şişhane. For the full experience, hop on the tram and ride through the entire street.
3. Saint Antoine Church
Located on İstiklal Avenue, Saint Antoine Church is the largest Catholic church in Istanbul, serving the city’s biggest Christian congregation. Originally built by the Italian community in 1725, the first church was demolished and rebuilt in 1912 in a Neo-Gothic style by Italian architect Giulio Mongeri
Visiting hours: Weekdays and Saturdays 08:00–19:30; Sundays 10:00–19:30
4. Avrupa Passage
Built in 1874 by architect Pulgher on commission from Mr. Ohing, it is also known as the Mirror Passage due to the mirrors inside. One of İstiklal Avenue’s oldest arcades, it’s full of antique shops, souvenir stores, and jewelry stands—great for picking up a little something unique.
Opening hours: Weekdays and Sundays 10:00–20:00; Saturdays 10:00–22:00
5. Çiçek Passage
Originally filled with flower shops (hence the name “Flower Passage”), today it’s home to several cafes and restaurants. A lovely place for a meal in a historic setting
Open every day, 24 hours
6. Hagia Triada Greek Orthodox Church (Aya Triada)
Built in 1882, this is the first church constructed in Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest and the largest in the Pera district. It was also the first church granted permission to have a dome.
Visiting hours: Sunday 09:00–13:00, other days 09:00–18:00
7. Syrian Passage (Suriye Pasajı)
Built between 1901–1908 as three separate buildings later connected by bridges, this is one of Beyoğlu’s oldest and largest arcades. Owned jointly by people of Syrian, Egyptian, and Turkish origin, it’s now a registered historical site. You’ll find leather shops, cafes, restaurants, and costume rental stores for film and TV productions.
Open daily from 08:30–23:00
8. Botter Apartment (İBB Casa Botter)
This newly restored site reopened in May 2023 as a cultural hub. Originally built for Jean Botter—fashion designer and tailor to Sultan Abdulhamid II—it served as both his atelier and family home. It’s regarded as Turkey’s first fashion house.
Admission (2025): Free
Closed Mondays; open other days 10:00–19:00
9. Atlas Passaji
Built in 1877 as a winter mansion and later expanded, Atlas Passage has housed Moulin Rouge Casino, Atlas Cinema, and more since the 1930s. It was renovated between 2018–2020 and now includes the Istanbul Cinema Museum.
Open daily 09:00–20:30
10. Narmanlı Han
Dating back to 1831, this historical building served as the Russian Embassy and later a prison. It housed many famous Turkish writers and artists. After years of neglect, it was restored starting in 2016. Now it’s a lively space with a central courtyard surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
Open daily 08:00–01:00
11. Museum of Illusions Istanbul
Located inside Narmanlı Han, this interactive museum is full of optical illusions and mind-bending exhibits fun for both kids and adults.
Admission (2025):
- Adults (18–64): 690 TL
- Children (4–16): 590 TL
- Family (2 adults + 2 children or 1 adult + 3 children): 2290 TL
- Students: 590 TL
- Under 4: Free
Open daily 11:00–20:00
12. Asmalı Mescit Street
Once Istanbul’s top nightlife hub, Asmalımescit is still lively with restaurants and clubs open till morning, tucked into its narrow, bustling streets.
13. Nevizade Street
Famous for its meyhanes (taverns), this narrow street is the place to enjoy raki and meze with friends. Expect music, laughter, and tables full of delicious food until the early hours.
14. Santa Maria Draperis Church
Hidden just off Istiklal Avenue, this 459-year-old Catholic church is still active, offering services in Italian and Spanish. Its narrow entrance leads to a serene and beautifully kept sanctuary.
Opening hours: Daily: 08:00–12:00 and 15:00–19:00
15. French Street (Cezayir Street)
Behind Galatasaray High School, this colorful street is alive with restaurants and art events. Painted façades and bright paving stones make it perfect for walking and photos.
16. Galata Mevlevi Lodge (Galata Mevlevihanesi)
This is the oldest Mevlevi lodge in Istanbul, built in 1491 at the request of İskender Pasha. It’s a place where you can learn about the Mevlevi (whirling dervish) tradition and even watch Sema ceremonies.
Admission (2025):
- Museum Pass valid
- Entry fee: 300 TL
Closed Mondays. Open other days 09:00–19:00
17. Galata Tower
A true icon of Istanbul, Galata Tower offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. Over the centuries, it served as a watchtower, observatory, and even a prison.
Legend has it that in 1632, Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi flew from the tower to the Asian side of the city using self-made wings—perhaps the first intercontinental flight!
Admission (2025):
- Museum Pass valid
- Entry fee: 1300 TL
Open daily 08:30–23:00
18. Serdar-ı Ekrem Street
Named after a commander of the Turkish War of Independence, this winding street near Galata is a charming mix of vintage architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. A favorite for photographers and wanderers alike.
19. Crimean Church (Anglican Church)
Built in 1868 by the British to honor soldiers who died in the Crimean War, this Neo-Gothic church was constructed from Maltese limestone by architect George Edmund Street.
After being closed for years, it was reopened in 1991 thanks to Sri Lankan Anglican refugees who contacted the British Consulate.
Open daily 09:00–18:00
20. Kamondo Stairs
A beautifully designed staircase from the 19th century, the Kamondo Stairs connect Galata Square to Bankalar Avenue. Commissioned by banker Abraham Salomon Kamondo so his grandchildren could reach school more easily, they’re now a beloved Instagram spot.
21. Bankalar Street (Bankalar Caddesi)
This historical avenue was once the financial hub of the Ottoman Empire, lined with imposing banks and offices. It’s a great street for admiring architecture—and today, you’ll find trendy cafes among the stone facades.
22. Salt Galata
Housed in the former Ottoman Bank building, Salt Galata now hosts exhibitions, talks, and events. It also includes a beautiful public library and a cafe, and offers scenic views of the Galata Bridge from its window
Admission (2025): Free
Closed Mondays. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11:00–19:00
23. Galata Bridge
Spanning the Golden Horn and connecting Karaköy with Eminönü, Galata Bridge is a picturesque spot for a stroll. Wave to the fishermen and enjoy city views, with landmarks like Galata Tower making perfect photo backdrops.
24. Pera Palace Hotel
Built at the end of the 19th century, the Pera Palace has hosted many famous guests over the decades—including Atatürk himself. Originally built for elite passengers of the Orient Express, it was one of the first buildings in Istanbul to have electricity and an elevator.
Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth visiting the restaurant or enjoying a coffee in its refined, historic atmosphere.
Author’s Note: Ideal for a short break or to soak up historic charm, even without booking a room.
25. Pera Museum
Opened in 2005 by the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Pera Museum hosts a rich collection of Turkish art as well as international exhibitions. It’s also home to educational programs for children and adults through its ‘Pera Learning’ initiative.
2025 Admission:
- General: 300 TL
- Discounted: 150 TL
- Groups (10+): 200 TL
- Free on Wednesdays for students and on Fridays from 18:00–22:00 for all
Opening hours: Closed Mondays; Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00–19:00, Sunday: 12:00–18:00
26. Orhan Kemal Museum
Dedicated to the celebrated Turkish author, this small but rich museum displays photos, letters, first editions, and personal belongings. Many photos were taken by legendary photographer Ara Güler.
2025 Admission:
- General: 100 TL
Opening hours: Closed Sundays; Open other days: 10:00–18:00
27. Galataport
A cutting-edge cruise terminal and lifestyle destination on the Bosphorus, Galataport blends waterfront dining, luxury shopping, and art spaces. It’s one of the newest hotspots for both tourists and locals.
27. Istanbul Modern Museum
This contemporary art museum celebrates Turkish and global modern artists. With rotating exhibitions, a cinema, library, and café, it’s a key cultural institution by the sea.
2025 Admission:
- General: 750 TL
- Discounted: 470 TL (students, teachers, seniors)
Opening hours: Closed Mondays; Tuesday–Thursday & Saturday: 10:00–18:00, Friday: 10:00–22:00
28. Fındıklı Park
Located between Kabataş and Beşiktaş, next to Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Fındıklı Park is a peaceful green spot by the Bosphorus, dotted with student sculptures and ideal for a tea break.
29. Aynalıkavak Pavilions
A surviving piece of the once-massive Tersane Palace, this waterfront Ottoman pavilion now hosts a small musical instrument museum and offers weekend breakfast service.
2023 Admission:
- General: 250 TL
- Discounted: 100 TL
- Museum Pass valid
Opening hours: Closed Mondays; Open other days: 09:00–18:00
30. Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Perfect for families and curious minds, this museum covers industrial history through full-sized ships, submarines, trains, and planes. Founded by Turkish businessman Rahmi Koç in 1994.
2025 Admission:
- General: 700 TL
- Discounted: 350 TL
- 10% discount for Museum Pass holders
Opening hours: Closed Mondays and major holidays; Tuesday–Friday: 10:00–17:00, Weekends: 10:00–18:00
31. Tophane-i Amire Culture and Art Center
Once an Ottoman cannon foundry, this domed building now hosts exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art. It’s part of Mimar Sinan University’s cultural spaces.
Admission: Free
Opening hours: Closed Mondays; Open other days: 09:00–18:00
32. Karaköy Square and Streets
Where Galata and Eminönü meet, Karaköy is full of contrasts—historic buildings, vibrant restaurants, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. It’s one of Istanbul’s most walkable and exciting neighborhoods. Find out about what to do in Karakoy here.
33. French Passage (Fransız Geçidi)
Dating back to the 1860s, this neoclassical arcade once welcomed French naval visitors and is now home to chic cafés and shops. Its architecture and old-world charm make it a local favorite.
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