Beyoglu Guide

Beyoğlu, formerly known as Pera, is one of the most popular neighborhoods on the European side of Istanbul. Established on the opposite side of the area known as the historical peninsula and the Golden Horn, the region has been known as Pera, which means “opposite bank” in Greek, almost since the Middle Ages. After the region fell into the hands of the Turks, the area began to be called Beyoğlu when a gentleman, the son of a Venetian ambassador, stayed there. In 1925, the name Pera was removed from official correspondence and the name Beyoğlu was started to be used completely.   

Although the history of Galata district in Beyoğlu district is very old, Beyoğlu is a district where settlement started to increase in the 16th century. In the 17th century, with the increase of Christians and European ambassadors who started to come and settle in Galata and its surroundings, the district and the vicinity of Istiklal Street took on the appearance of a European neighborhood. Beyoğlu has been one of the most culturally and socially important districts of Istanbul since the beginning of its settlement.    

Even today, Beyoğlu is one of the districts of Istanbul that most reflects Istanbul with its history, culture and social life. It is the central district. Beyoğlu is an Istanbul district that still maintains its old popularity with the continuation of the cosmopolitan life of places such as Istiklal Street, Taksim and the entertainment and commercial life of streets such as Cihangir, Inonu and Cumhuriyet.

In addition to luxury stores and shopping centers, there are also many historical buildings in Beyoğlu. Especially the buildings reflecting the architectural features of the 19th and 20th century are quite numerous on the streets of Beyoğlu. Some of the historical buildings have been restored, while others remain empty even today.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Beyoğlu Hotels page.