Exploring the streets of Istanbul

The size of Istanbul means it can be explored numerous times and still find somewhere new; getting lost is easy and fun although can be frustrating if you want to be doing or going somewhere in particular. For newcomers to the city, meandering around the city discovering the old and the new is a great past time, one that long time residents also indulge in. There are a number of particular streets that are well worth heading to for a day’s meandering and a bit of shopping.

Istiklal Street

Independence Boulevard, Istiklal Cad had its name changed from the Grand Rue de Pera sometime in the early days of the republic. It is here you will find a perfect juxtaposition between old and modern Istanbul. Split down the centre by the antique red tram trundling up and down its length; you will find top end boutiques alongside high street names, art shops, bistros and bars that the area is famous for. Stretching from Taksim square to Galata, Galatasaray square is midway and nearby you will find the fish bazaar (Balık Pazarı) and the much loved flower passage (Çiçek Pasajı). Here the 19th century architecture houses consulates and cultural centres alongside the shops. The multi layered buildings hold a variety of shops that can be found in housed in interesting layers within the tall buildings the higgledy piggledy arrangements fascinating to visitors and residents alike.

Turnacibasi Sokak

Just before you reach the Galata end of Istiklal Cad you can make a slight detour into Turnacibasi Sokak. The name has an interesting history from Ottoman times when young Christian boys where rounded by the Master of Cranes (Turnacibasi) to become Janissaries to fight for and protect the sultans of the time. Turnacibasi was so named as the group when walking in formation resembled a flock of cranes in flight; walking in a V shaped arrangement with the Turnacibasi in the lead. This atmospheric street is designed for meandering, taken up by young artists you will find modern art mixing with vintage records, antiques and bookshops. You will also find a number of small workshops here reclaiming furniture and creating new pieces.

Bagdat Avenue

Now this is the place to walk to be seen! Ladies in their best outfits will wander up and down this street, not watching of course, the boys driving slowly along the road not watching them! On the Anatolian side of Istanbul this 14 km street is ‘The’ shopping street, with many recognizable brands to be found. Pedestrian friendly with wide sidewalks and one way traffic, populated with many cafes and up market restaurants this lively and popular street is a fun place to spend the day. Occasionally celebrations will be held here that add to the bustling, friendly atmosphere.

Galata Bridge

Not quite a street but certainly a interesting walk that displays the sights, the sounds, the sense that is Istanbul. A long time favourite, this crossing across the Golden Horn from Beyoğlu to Eminönü, not only serves its function as a bridge but is popular for its nargile cafes and restaurants that lie beneath the bridge. Walking across at almost any time you will find anglers trying their luck, sellers of simits (popular Turkish bread snack) all enjoying the iconic skyline and the ferries sailing the Bosphorus.