Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue), Istanbul (must see)

Welcome to the most organic facet of modern Istanbul — Istiklal Avenue — a mosaic of cultures and ideas that feels both Turkish and unmistakably European. Indeed, here East meets West, sharing a drink, grabbing a bite, and staying up past midnight. In this collision of life, languages, and late-night pastry shops, embassies stand shoulder to shoulder with indie bookstores, street musicians jam beside polished art galleries, and the air hums with both espresso machines and the murmur of ten thousand footsteps.

Moving through Istiklal, you can't miss the sight capturing everyone’s attention — the nostalgic red tram. The only vehicle allowed here, it quietly glides down the middle, linking Taksim and Tünel squares. Its slow pace contrasts with the endless flow of people from every corner of the world. Riding it isn’t about distance; it’s about presence — sharing a moment with Istanbul’s glorious chaos.

Look left, right, and a little skyward. All along this avenue, history and art live side by side. Historic cinemas such as Atlas and Beyoğlu still light their marquees, and elegant passages like Çiçek and Hazzopulo recall the Belle Époque charm of old Istanbul. The Church of Saint Antoine, with its Venetian Gothic façade, stands as a reminder of the city’s layered faiths and communities. Nearby, galleries such as SALT Beyoğlu, ARTER, and the Mısır Apartments bring contemporary energy to the street’s historic architecture.

Take a turn down any alley, and Istanbul will reward your curiosity. Here, the tempo softens with small smoky taverns, cafés, and rooftop terraces inviting visitors to pause — to taste, to listen, to observe. The hum of conversation, the scent of coffee, the echo of live music: all merge into one continuous story of Istanbul — vibrant, diverse, and always in motion. Indeed, this street doesn’t walk — it dances.

Just remember — keep your wallet close, your eyes anywhere but in front of you (a neat trick that clears your path), and avoid walking the minor alleys after midnight.