Taksim

It’s impossible to discuss the stunning city of Istanbul without mentioning Taksim, one of the most famous and beautiful areas in the European side of the city.

Taksim stands out at times as a historic square, at others as a witness to an old service landmark, and always as a tourist destination hosting many of Istanbul's iconic symbols, such as Istiklal Street and Galata Tower.

This doesn't detract from Taksim’s unique real estate appeal. It is an ideal place to live, offering residents the best of both worlds: high-quality apartments, proximity to the city's most beautiful historical and tourist attractions, and cultural activities that shape Istanbul.

Overview of the Taksim Area

Taksim is located in the heart of European Istanbul and is part of the Beyoglu district. It is bordered by the luxurious Sisli area to the north and Karakoy to the south. To the east, it overlooks the Bosphorus and Besiktas, while to the west it is surrounded by other neighborhoods of Beyoglu.

The history of Taksim dates back to its famous square, established in the 18th century during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Mahmud I.

The square was originally used for water distribution in Istanbul, hence the name “Taksim” (which means "distribution"). Later, it was modernized to become an architectural and historical symbol, with the Republic Monument erected in 1928 to commemorate the Turkish War of Independence and the republic's founding.

Today, Taksim Square is one of Istanbul’s most central landmarks and its vibrant heart, seamlessly blending historical charm with modern energy, making it a favorite destination for both residents and tourists.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Taksim is a major transportation hub in Istanbul, featuring a wide network of transport options that make it easily accessible. This is due to its importance and its attraction to tourists, visitors, and businesspeople.

• Metro M2
  Taksim Metro Station is part of the M2 metro line, which connects Taksim to areas such as Sishane, Osmanbey, Sisli, and Levent, along a 23.49 km route.
• Tramway
  Taksim is served by the historic tramway that runs along Istiklal Street to Galata Tower, a popular attraction among tourists.
• Buses
  Taksim hosts a bus station with routes to several destinations, including Istanbul's new airport.
• Taxis
  Taxis are widely available, making it convenient to travel to and from Taksim.

Healthcare and Hospitals in Taksim

Taksim is home to several excellent hospitals, including:

• Acibadem Taksim Hospital
  Part of the Acibadem Hospital chain, this private facility offers high-level services across various medical specialties. It has 93 beds, 6 operating rooms, MRI and radiology departments, intensive care units, and surgical consulting rooms. It also provides airport transfers and multilingual translation services.
• Taksim Training and Research Hospital
  This government hospital provides comprehensive services, including neurosurgery, cosmetic and urological surgeries, psychiatry, ophthalmology, and more.
• Taksim First Aid Hospital
  A historic facility specializing in emergency services and first aid, as well as laboratory analyses.

Educational Services: Universities and Schools in Taksim

As a desirable residential area, Taksim and its surroundings host many significant educational institutions to meet residents' needs. These include both modern international schools and historic ones with stunning architectural designs that enhance the overall experience. Notable institutions include:

• Galatasaray High School
  One of the top ten schools in Turkey, founded in 1481 by Sultan Bayezid II. It offers education in Turkish and French, and its graduates are among the most distinguished.
• Saint Pulcherie High School
  A prestigious French school established in 1846, focusing on arts such as painting, sculpture, and cinema, alongside traditional subjects.
• Istanbul Besiktas Elementary School
  A highly-rated school covering preschool and elementary levels, located in nearby Besiktas, offering the Turkish curriculum.

Close to Taksim, there are numerous international schools catering to expatriates, especially Arabs, such as the Sudanese-Turkish Friendship School and King Idris Al-Senussi Libyan School, as well as top-tier language institutes like ABC Horizon.

Nearby Universities

• Istanbul Bilgi University
  A private university established in 1995, collaborating with the London School of Economics. It offers diverse faculties, including media, health sciences, and applied sciences, alongside master’s and doctoral programs.
• Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ)
  Located in Sariyer, north of Taksim, this is one of Turkey's oldest public technical universities, founded in 1773. It offers programs in architecture, IT, electrical and electronic engineering, and more, within a sprawling green campus.
• Istanbul Kent University (Taksim Campus)
  A private university established in 2016, featuring faculties of dentistry, health sciences, social sciences, and arts and design.
• Beykent University Faculty of Law
  Centrally located in Taksim, near the historic Istiklal Street.

Apartments in Taksim Area

For those seeking apartments for sale in Taksim, Istanbul, a stunning variety of options awaits, with properties ranging from historic to ultra-modern. Apartment prices depend on their size, location within the area, level of finishing, services, and the building’s age. Generally, Taksim Square is one of Istanbul’s most expensive areas due to its central location and tourist appeal, attracting the wealthy and tourists alike.

Apartments in Taksim vary from luxurious units in modern residential complexes to more affordable options in traditional buildings. Below is an updated summary of approximate prices according to the real estate market in 2024:

Advantages of Living in Taksim, Istanbul

Choosing an apartment in Taksim ensures living in a place with robust infrastructure and excellent services. The advanced transportation network makes traveling within and outside the area extremely convenient. Residents also enjoy proximity to Istanbul’s most historic, upscale, and entertaining spots, such as Istiklal Street, with its many restaurants, cafes, and shops.

If you opt for a Taksim apartment as a long-term real estate investment, rest assured it’s a wise choice. The area’s increasing demand among tourists and investors, coupled with rising property values driven by local developmental projects, ensures excellent returns. While prices may be high, the location, services, and infrastructure make any property in Taksim a lucrative asset for renting or reselling.

Key Attractions and Activities in Taksim

1. Taksim Square
   Taksim Square is Istanbul’s vibrant heart, bustling day and night. It houses the Republic Monument and is surrounded by top-tier hotels, global restaurant chains, Turkish cafes, and the majestic Taksim Mosque, adorned with stunning Islamic designs.
2. Istiklal Street
   Istiklal Street is a unique blend of Ottoman, French, Greek, and Italian architectural styles, featuring historical European-style buildings alongside modern ones. The street offers a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and theaters, making it a popular spot for shopping, strolling, and soaking in the city's rich heritage.
3. Galata Tower
   One of Istanbul's oldest historic towers, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and both the Asian and European sides of the city. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking photography opportunities and dine at its distinctive rooftop restaurant.
4. Dolmabahce Palace
   Known as the “Palace of Sultans,” this nearby historical museum in Besiktas showcases exquisite artworks, valuable manuscripts, and luxurious carpets.
5. Galatasaray Hammam
   A historic Turkish bath offering a traditional spa experience, including therapeutic massages and warm, soothing rituals.
6. Parks and Gardens
   Taksim and its surroundings feature beautiful green spaces perfect for walking, family outings, and relaxation. Notable spots include Gezi Park overlooking the Bosphorus and Macka Park in Sisli.
7. Shopping
   Taksim’s markets offer a delightful shopping experience, featuring not only quality goods but also lively music and vibrant crowds. Istiklal Street boasts unique stores, including Fitas Passage, with bookshops, movie theaters, and music halls, as well as Istiklal Mall, featuring diverse shops and affordable massage clubs. For souvenirs, visit Atlas Market for modern and traditional items and the Istanbul Cinema Museum, which displays vintage filmmaking equipment and classic Turkish films.
8. Cultural and Artistic Activities
   Taksim hosts numerous cultural and artistic events throughout the year, including musical performances and exhibitions. Taksim Square is also a focal point for festive gatherings, particularly during national celebrations. Highlights include the Pera Art Gallery and the Municipal Theater.
9. Cafes and Restaurants
   Taksim’s restaurants and cafes epitomize the essence of Turkish cuisine. From delicious kebabs and baklava to Turkish coffee and tea, the area offers something for every palate. Highly rated establishments include Mado Restaurant, Hafız Mustafa 1864, Simit Sarayi, and Ara Cafe.

Hotels in Taksim

Taksim hosts the largest concentration of hotels in a compact area, offering choices for every budget. Most hotels provide luxurious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast. Notable options include:

• The Marmara Taksim Hotel
  A five-star hotel overlooking the square and the Bosphorus. It features elegant vintage furniture and is surrounded by shopping venues and excellent restaurants.
• Hotel Marble
  A four-star hotel with a stunning marble and glass facade in Cihangir, offering views of the Sea of Marmara. It’s just a 3-minute walk from Taksim Square.
• Nisa Sultan Taksim Flats
  A three-star hotel featuring small, private apartments, located 9 minutes west of Taksim Square.
• Hotel V Plus Taksim
  A budget-friendly two-star hotel with cozy rooms and a prime location just minutes from Taksim Square, ideal for individuals or small families.

With its central location, rich history, and modern conveniences, Taksim remains one of Istanbul’s most desirable neighborhoods for living, exploring, and investing.