Location of Taksim Square:The general location address for Taksim Square is - Gümüşsuyu, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey. It is roughly located in the northern part of Istanbul.
Taksim Square distance from Istanbul Airport:
The distance between Taksim Square and Istanbul is roughly around 55 kilometers. However, the shortest route is just 44 kilometers via D020.
History of Taksim Square
The utmost importance of Taksim Square was to distribute water into other parts of the city from northern Istanbul. This area was mainly founded by Sultan Mahmud I from the Ottoman Empire and became the prime distributor of water after Sultan Mahmud I built Maksem during the years 1732-1833.
The Republic Monument located at the heart of Taksim Square is a historical monument, which depicts the Turkish War of Independence on one side and the Turkish Republic on the other side. The Turkish Republic was founded by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who was an excellent Statesman, a field marshal, author and the first President of the Republic of Turkey.
During the 19th century, Taksim Artillery Barracks was another important building situated near Taksim Square, which was later set to demolish to start the construction of Taksim Stadium. However, soon during the years 1939-1940, the stadium too was demolished for the construction of Taksim Gezi Park, Istanbul’s one of last remaining green parks.
Taksim Square has also witnessed many protests and mass demonstrations against the Republic of Turkey’s governance and their fascist regimes. In 2013, after the municipality wanting to tear down the park to add more shops, began to forcefully remove people who camped in the park.
After the news of Police brutality spread all over the world, Gezi park saw one of the largest protest demonstrations ever since. The Istanbul Pride walk was also a major mass gathering in Taksim Square, but it has been sadly banned by the governor since 2015.
Places to Eat in Taksim Square
Turkish cuisines and snacks are popular all over the world. Their rich and prosperous heritage of cooking and serving delicious food still thrives in today’s generations. Some places have been in business and have been serving customers for over 100 years.
1. Arch Bistro
Arch Bistro is one of the top restaurants in Istanbul, near Taksim Square. They specialize in Turkish, Mediterranean and exquisite salads. Tea, bread and dessert that is served here, is complimentary and is a perfect place to read a book and dine.
The restaurant is aesthetically decorated with pictures, books and their unique lighting design, making the whole experience very fulfilling. This place is ideal for romantic dinners and has a different bar section, where you can find many brands and varieties.
Address: Kucukayasofya Mahallesi, Kadirga Limani Cad. No: 113 Sultanahmet, Istanbul 34122 Turkey
Timings:
- Tue- 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Wed-Mon- 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
2. 360 Istanbul
360 Istanbul is Taksim Square’s one of the most popular restaurants. The restaurant is made on a rooftop that offers a complete 360° view of the square and neighboring areas. You will find a variety of dishes here inspired by Turkish, Indian, Italian and Mediterranean cuisines. They also serve exquisite European wine that will make your dining experience unforgettable.
Address: Tomtom Mh. İstiklal Cad. Mısır Apt.No:163 K:8 Tomtom 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
Timings: 10 am to 7 pm
3. Eleos Fish Restaurant
This restaurant was probably made for seafood lovers. The place is rather cozy and the entrance may seem weird to some people, as it is very small and does not look like an entrance at all. However, once you are inside, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Bosphorus from the dining room.
This Greek restaurant will also offer you Ouzo, which is a traditional alcoholic beverage in Greece. If you don’t mind eating in cozy spaces and love seafood, you should definitely try out Eleos.
Address: 231 İstiklal Caddesi, İstanbul, 34421, Turkey
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
Nightlife at Taksim Square
Many people have different experiences of nightlife in Istanbul. However, it is important to choose the right bar if you are looking to have a drink and relax. If you want to sit, relax, listen to music and have a drink, here are two bars that you should try:
1. Sefahathane
A beautiful Bohemian bar located just off Istiklal Avenue in the interior of Atlas Pasaj, where you and your friends can have a unique experience. This keeps the ambience perfect for couples, singles, and groups and they enjoy their time.
2. Crab Bar
Located in Istiklal Avenue, this bar hosts some of the popular performers of the country. If you are up for a beer and an evening of Turkish music, look no more. Crab bar is a wonderful place to spend an evening with your close ones or alone.
Tips on Visiting Taksim Square
- Do not visit the establishment called Pavyon as there is a prominent history of many fraudsters and potentially criminal activities.
- There is no safe place anywhere around the world, especially if you are a woman. So always try to evaluate the probability of a dangerous situation and avoid it before you actually/accidentally end up in one.
- Due to Taksim Sqaure’s history of mass demonstrations and protests, the government has employed riot cops and necessary personnel to patrol the streets of Taksim and nearby areas. If you feel unsafe you can find Police personnel almost at every intersection of any street and never hesitate to approach them.
- Try to design a 9 to 5 schedule to enjoy Taksim Square at its best.
