It's estimated that a million people a day pass through Istiklal Avenue. Join in the buzz and have a stroll through this fun, commercial hub. Bars, restaurants and shops selling European and American brands sit next to religious centres and numerous consulates. You'll come across fal evi or fortune tellers who'll read your coffee grains. If you're with an interpreter, give this culturally engrained activity a go!
I have and always will be charmed by the red tram that crosses Independance Avenue. With its retro look, it links Taksim Square to the Sirkeci Railway Station. A trip on the tram will give you the chance to see some magnificent 19th Century buildings. The atmosphere along the avenue is only enhanced by all the buskers, who are invariably out in force.
Don't move on from the erstwhile named Pera Avenue without snacking on an Islak hamburger, a local speciality. The donner kebab restaurants at the end of the avenue (opposite the French consulate) serve them. Personally, I'm a fan of the stuffed mussels that are sold on street stalls. A real culinary delight!
Istiklal Avenue is a must during a holiday in Turkey or trip to Istanbul.