Sultanahmet Quiet And

It seems like it’s not going to leave the city anytime soon. The city looks even more beautiful in snow though..

This is the longest and busiest pedestrian street in Istanbul. It’s called ‘Istiklal Caddesi’, meaning ‘Independence Avenue’ in Turkish. It runs all the way from Taksim Square which is considered to be the city center to Tünel (Tunnel), where the second oldest subway station in Europe is (dating from the end of 19th century). From Tünel, the Galata Tower is only 5 minutes walking distance away.

The nostalgic tram which is red, runs on the pedestrian street. It might be going as fast as you walk, however it is nice to take it and go back in time for 40 years or so. It’s also one of the most important symbols of the city, seen in many postcards and shots from Istanbul.

The area, called Pera back in the day, was where all the European powers had their embassies. Today,  most of those buildings are consulates.