İstiklal Caddesi

"(EN) Historically known as the Grand Avenue of Pera, it is an 1.4 kilometre pedestrian street and one of the most famous avenues in Istanbul, Turkey. It acquired its modern name after the declaration of the Republic, İstiklal (Independence) commemorating Turkey's triumph in its War of Independence. During the Ottoman period, the avenue was called Cadde-i Kebir (Grand Avenue) in Turkish or the Grande Rue de Péra in French. It was a popular gathering place where Ottoman intellectual rubbed shoulders with Europeans and the local Italian and French Levantines. In the 19th-century travelers referred to Constantinople (today Istanbul) as the Paris of the East, they considered the Grande Rue de Péra and its cosmopolitan, half-European, half-Asian culture. (ES) Históricamente conocida como la Gran Avenida de Pera, es una calle peatonal de 1,4 kilómetros y una de las avenidas más famosas de Estambul, Turquía. Adquirió su nombre moderno tras la declaración de la República, İstiklal (Independencia), que conmemora el triunfo de Turquía en su Guerra de Independencia. Durante el período otomano, la avenida se llamaba Cadde-i Kebir (Gran Avenida) en turco o Grande Rue de Péra en francés. Era un lugar de reunión popular donde los intelectuales otomanos se codeaban con los europeos y los levantinos italianos y franceses locales. En el siglo XIX, los viajeros se referían a Constantinopla (hoy Estambul) como el París del Este, consideraban la Grande Rue de Péra y su cultura cosmopolita, mitad europea y mitad asiática."

"Take a leisurely stroll down Istiklal Avenue, located in the heart of Istanbul, is a bustling pedestrian street that pulsates with life day and night. Lined with an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, and historic buildings, it's a vibrant hub of activity that attracts locals and tourists alike. Whether you're strolling along its cobblestone streets, admiring the stunning architecture, or indulging in a spot of shopping, Istiklal Avenue offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Istanbul's cosmopolitan charm. From trendy boutiques to traditional Turkish eateries, there's something for everyone to discover along this iconic thoroughfare. And as the sun sets, Istiklal Avenue truly comes alive, with street performers, live music, and an electric atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to soak up the energy of the city. It is always very crowded, though incidents are rare, it's always wise to take precautions against pickpocketing etc. Keep your belongings secure by wearing your backpack in front of you or holding onto your bags and by just staying vigilant. "

"👉 İstiklal Caddesi means Independence Avenue. 🚶This pedestrian street leads downhill from Taksim Square to the southern end, where you can catch the Tünel to the Galata Bridge. 😊 Or wander down the narrow cobblestone lanes filled with touristy shops and cafes. 🛍️ İstiklal is a broad boulevard crammed with people and lined with contemporary boutiques and sweet shops selling baklava and Turkish Delight. 🚃 An old-fashioned red tram runs down its length for tourists to ride. 🇹🇷 If you want to shop Turkish brands, check out: 🌹 Golden Rose for Make-Up 👖 Mavi for Jeans 🛍️ Kotton for everyday clothing for the whole family 👆 While walking along the street, remember to look up at the marvellous architecture. 🤩 The street was once called Rue of Grand Pera, lined with stunning 19th-century apartments, from Art Deco to Neo-Gothic and first National Turkish Architecture. 😋 Feeling hungry, stop at Hacı Bekir Sweet Shop for lokum (Turkish Delight). 💎 This is one of the most beautiful shops on the street, and downstairs, there’s an awesome baklava bar!"