Istiklal Caddesi (Istanbul)

Istiklal Caddesi, translated as Independence Avenue, is Istanbul’s busiest pedestrian thoroughfare, visited by an amazing three million people a day during weekends. Located in the historic Beyoglu district, it stretches for two miles of elegant boutiques, book stores, cafes, art galleries and grand historic mansion blocks. Istanbul cheap city breaks for history buffs can enjoy late Ottoman era buildings designed in Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau along with attractive Art Deco department stores. At any time of day it is a vibrant hive of activity. Throughout the day it is thronged with shoppers, early evening is for strolling and people watching and late into the night it transforms into a lively entertainment district with live music, cinema and trendy bars.

 

There is no shortage of sightseeing opportunities along Istiklal Caddesi. The Pera Museum is worth a browse for its huge collection of ancient coins, tapestry and manuscripts. Other noted landmarks to see on short breaks in Istanbul include the historic theatre of Ortaoyuncular Sahnesi, Galatasaray Turkish Bath and the Fish Bazaar. Historic trams scoot up and down the Istiklal Caddesi all day long and this is a good way to catch your breath and escape the hot sunshine while taking in all the lively street drama.

 

Of course, a visit to Istiklal Caddesi will severely test your resolve not to spend money in its inviting boutiques and department stores. There is no shortage of goodies to catch your eye from elegant silk shops, second hand book sellers, trendy fashion stores and cheap electronics. The numerous small alleys leading off the main drag are the preserve of serious bargain hunters and haggling is de rigour. Weekend breaks in Istanbul can sample truly delightful Turkish delicacies on Istiklal Caddesi and its famous ice cream parlours can be found every few metres or so.