Taksim Square
Taksim Square is the modern heart of Istanbul's European side, anchored by the Republic Monument and the starting point of Istiklal Avenue. Free.
Walk in Istanbul
Bosphorus Shoreline Walk
The Bosphorus Shoreline Walk follows the European waterfront from the Ortakoy neighborhood past the first Bosphorus Bridge toward the upscale village of Bebek. Free. The route passes Ottoman-era wooden mansions (yalis), waterfront cafes, fishermen, and views across to the Asian shore. Budget travelers start at Ortakoy (reachable by cheap bus from Taksim), walk to Bebek in about an hour, drink a Turkish tea at a waterfront cafe, and bus back. One of the best free walks in Istanbul.
The route
Where it stops
Each stop is free to stand in front of, whatever the tour costs.
Istiklal Avenue
Istiklal Avenue is Istanbul's main pedestrian boulevard, running from Taksim Square to the Galata Tower end, with a nostalgic red tram rattling down its center. Free to walk.
Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower rising above the rooftops of Beyoglu on the European side. Entry to the observation deck is paid.
Kadikoy
Kadikoy is the commercial heart of Istanbul's Asian side, a bustling neighborhood of markets, street food, bookshops, and vintage stores reached by a cheap ferry from Eminonu. Free to walk.
Everything else Istanbul costs.
Istanbul