This square is quite a shopping and activity hub. There are 5 streets leading out from the square like a star. Each street has a different feel, and the larger ones are filled with shops, markets, hotels and place to eat. The square itself was rather too crowded and hectic for our taste, but many people there seemed to be enjoying the activity. This area of Istanbul is rather modern - not part of the ancient city.

Taksim Square is a major tourist and leisure district, It is surrounded with full of antique/souvenir shops, restaurants, international shopping & food chains, movie theaters, bars, cafes , roof top eateries with Bosphorus . Lots of visitors/tourists, some sit down by the road side café , sip some Turkish coffee , taste all kinds of Turkish snacks , relax to watch the world goes by. While some takes picture with the Square Public Monument, many are seen browsing around shops. Occasionally we get to see the tram passing by. Be great to have more time here !!!

Be very careful shopping or buying food. Don't shop or buy anything from and place or person that doesn't show prices. Specially small ice cream places. However, it is a very nice street to visit.

Taksim Square and Beyoğlu are places that make you feel the heartbeat of Istanbul. Every time I visit, I am enchanted by the lively atmosphere of Taksim and the historical texture of Beyoğlu. While wandering around Taksim Square, I sense that it is a meeting point of different cultures and people. Exploring the narrow streets of Beyoğlu, I see a wonderful balance between the past and the present. The night carries a special charm in this area; with music, laughter, and the dance of lights, I feel like I've stepped into a fairytale land. Taksim and Beyoğlu are places that, for me, reflect the soul and energy of Istanbul in the best possible way.

During our weeks stay in Istanbul, we walked the "Taksim Mile" twice. On both occasions, we were not disappointed as we saw new places for the second time. Also some great restaurants which will be reviewed separately. Just about every fashion brand has an outlet in this area. Both times it was pretty busy with tourists and locals. Well with a visit.

Similar to Oxford st in London. Very crowded with all the expensive shops but some great budget places to eat too such as the kebab places. Must try the tram, the sweetcorn and a kebab wrap and deserts from Haji Mustafa.

We took the Sultanahmet tram to the end of the line (Kabataş) and from there you can go directly below ground and catch the funicular up to Taksim Square. Weirdest funicular anywhere as it is entirely underground as it grinds up the hill from the coast to the peak. And yes, you can use your red tram pass! On arriving at the top, we set off down the pedestrian mall (Istiklal (Independence) ... Interesting architecture but super busy and I have no idea why so many people are absolutely clueless about bumping into others! So felt a bit claustrophobic but the people watching was fun. We walked all the way down and then hooked a left which took us down a very steep street and back to the water and back on to the tram! A great leg stretch and casual way to spend an afternoon. Oh and had a super yummy lunch at a very traditional Hatay restaurant, Antakya Mutfağı, that was just off Istiklal. If you've been to Hong Kong, think about the hardly labelled famiy restaurant on the 4th floor with no elevator. yes, it was worth it. All 4 flights.