Yes, Taksim and Sultanahmet are relatively close—about 3.4 3 . 4 to 5 5 km apart—and are easily connected by a direct 15 1 5 - 20 2 0 minute tram or funicular ride, despite having distinct atmospheres. They are in the same general area, but separated by the Golden Horn, making public transport (T1 tram + F1 funicular) the fastest, most convenient, and most recommended method.
If it's your first time here, don't think twice: sleep in Sultanahmet, undoubtedly the best area to stay in Istanbul. This neighborhood is the oldest part of the city, the former heart of Constantinople, and is the perfect base for exploring major historical wonders on foot.
Taksim Square is located very close to Istanbul's most iconic tourist attractions. From this central point, you can easily reach the city's historical and cultural treasures. Major landmarks such as Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque are just a short metro or tram ride away.
Sultanahmet (old city): very safe. It's the historic heart, ultra-monitored. You can wander there day or night without worry. Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are in this sector, with reinforced security.
Visiting Istanbul? Do NOT Stay In Sultanahmet (Do This Instead)
Is Taksim Square safe at night?
Yes, Taksim Square is generally safe at night as there is a constant police presence, and the area is crowded with tourists and locals. However, it is always best to be careful and avoid side streets that are not well lit.
Sultanahmet is by far the most important borough of the historical peninsula of Istanbul. It was the heart of the Byzantine, Constantine and Ottoman empires. Today people still refer to Sultanahmet as the historical heart of Istanbul.
Sultangazi is a district on the European side of Istanbul that is known for its low-income residents and high poverty rates. It is a densely populated area, and the living conditions can be challenging for many of the residents.
Another one of the best areas to stay in Istanbul is near Taksim Square. This area is perfect for those who enjoy the vibrant energy of city life and want to be surrounded by shops, restaurants, and great nightlife.
Sultanahmet being the epicenter of Istanbul tourism, prices are higher here than in other parts of the city, and more restaurants are aimed at foreign clientele.
The T1 tram line is the best way to explore Sultanahmet, while the M2 metro connects modern districts like Taksim and Levent. Avoid rush hours (8-10 AM and 5-7 PM) to dodge heavy crowds.
Walk through the lively streets of Turkey's largest city to visit the former basilica of the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel and an important monument from the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
İstiklal Street (İstiklal Caddesi in Turkish) is centrally located in the Beyoğlu district on the European side of Istanbul. It serves as the main artery connecting the bustling Taksim Square in Istanbul at its northern end to the historic Galata neighborhood and the Golden Horn to the south.
Jeans are very popular combined with a sweater and jacket in the cooler months. Although there are no rules for dress, it's better to dress quite modestly to avoid unwanted attention and beachwear certainly isn't recommended.
Taksim, while not inherently unsafe, is a vast and bustling area with many winding backstreets and a lively nightlife scene. Visitors should exercise caution, especially during evening hours.
From the opulent villas of Bebek and Etiler in Istanbul, to the exclusive coastal retreats of Bodrum and Göcek, Turkey's elite know how to live in style. Whether it's sipping Turkish coffee with a Bosphorus view or sailing into a private bay, these neighborhoods are all about luxury, heritage, and high-end living.
This vibrant piece of Ottoman Empire history sits in the heart of the historic Fatih district, near Beyazıt Square. Sultan Mehmed II founded it shortly after the Ottoman Conquest of Constantinople in the 15th century. Today, the Istanbul Grand Bazaar is among the best markets in Istanbul.
Some people think that Sultanahmet, being the historic part of Istanbul, is much more atmospheric and authentic than Taksim. There are, of course, plenty of restaurants in Sultanahmet to enjoy. These are a little pricier than the restaurants on the Taksim side, but do offer a range of Turkish and international food.
The Sultanahmet Mosque is called the Blue Mosque due to the iconic, 20,000 handmade blue tiles adorning its interior. The upper levels are also painted blue to complement the tile decor.
