Understand

Galata, located in Istanbul, Turkey, has a fascinating history. Originally a trade colony of the Genoese and Venetians, it played a significant role in the transformation of Constantinople. Even after the Ottomans captured Istanbul, Galata maintained its autonomy, although its city walls were mostly demolished. The area of Beyolu, situated north of Galata, emerged during the 1850s with the opening of the Grand Rue de Pera, which is now known as Istiklal Street. Today, Istiklal Street is one of Istanbul's most prominent pedestrian streets, bustling with thousands of people at any given time. The district also houses numerous diplomatic buildings, many of which were once impressive embassies when Istanbul was the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Galata has always symbolized the West, evident in its neo-classical architecture. The district boasts several "firsts" in Turkey, such as the first street lighting, the first underground railway (the Tnel, also the oldest in continental Europe), and the first European-style theaters. The Ottoman dynasty's decision to abandon the traditional Topkap Palace in the old city for the western-style Dolmabahe Palace near Beyolu marked a significant shift towards westernization during the last century of the Ottoman Empire.

Get in

Are you planning to explore Istanbul? Taksim Square is the perfect starting point. You have various options for transportation to reach this bustling hub of the city. The HAVA airport shuttles provided by Havas connect Taksim Square with both Ataturk and Sabiha Gken Airports. If you prefer public transportation, you can easily find a direct bus from anywhere in the city to Taksim Square, except for the outermost suburbs. Some of the most useful public bus lines for travelers are the 61B from Taksim to Beyazt near Sultanahmet, the 96T from Taksim to Ataturk Airport, and the 110 from Taksim to Kadky. Dolmues also offer transportation from Beikta, Bakrky, Kadky, and Bostanc to Taksim. If you're coming from districts located north, you can take the metro line to Taksim Square. For a scenic journey along the Bosphorus, you can hop on the modern tram line that connects lower parts of Taksim with the peninsula of Old City. Ferries from Kadky across the Bosphorus also moor at Karaky, providing another means of getting to Taksim. If you prefer a taxi, a ride from Istanbul Airport to Taksim Square costs 160 TL. Additionally, you can walk from Eminn to Galata/Karaky side via Galata Bridge. Whether you arrive by air or explore the city by bus, metro, or tram, Taksim Square is the heart of Istanbul's vibrant city life!

Popular Foods

Dish 1: Köfte - Köfte is a traditional Turkish dish consisting of seasoned minced meat, typically beef or lamb, formed into patties or torpedo shapes and grilled or fried. It's often served with flatbread, vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce called cacık.

Dish 2: Kebap - Kebap refers to a variety of grilled meat dishes in Turkish cuisine, typically featuring marinated cubes or thin slices of beef, lamb, or chicken, skewered and grilled over an open flame. They can be served plain or with a side of rice, bulgur, or flatbread, and often accompanied by a range of sauces and condiments.

Dish 3: Baklava - Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios), and butter, then cut into diamond or square-shaped portions and held together with honey or sugar syrup. This rich, crunchy dessert is a staple in Turkish cuisine and often enjoyed during special occasions or as a treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing