Beyazıt Square Istanbul
A historic Istanbul square featuring Istanbul University's grand gate, a mosque, and lively street vendors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Beyazıt Square Istanbul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Istanbul square featuring Istanbul University's grand gate, a mosque, and lively street vendors.
"Beyazıt Square offers a vibrant glimpse into Istanbul's history and daily life."
🎯 Stay Alert for Pickpockets
Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Locals advise keeping valuables secure.
💳 Get an Istanbulkart
Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Istanbul University Main Gate
North side of the square
The grand, historic main gate of Istanbul University, a stunning architectural landmark.
Beyazıt Mosque
Adjacent to the square
A beautiful Ottoman-era mosque offering a serene escape and impressive architecture.
Bustling Street Vendors
Throughout the square
Experience the vibrant atmosphere with local vendors selling a variety of goods and snacks.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Beyazıt Square Safely
Smart Transportation to the Square
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Stay Alert for Pickpockets
Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Locals advise keeping valuables secure. +1
💳 Get an Istanbulkart
Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries.
🚌 Airport Transfer Hack
Havaist bus is a cost-effective way to reach the city center from the airport.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The square's historic buildings offer great photo opportunities, especially in good light.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Stay Alert for Pickpockets
Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Locals advise keeping valuables secure. +1
💳 Get an Istanbulkart
Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries.
🚌 Airport Transfer Hack
Havaist bus is a cost-effective way to reach the city center from the airport.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The square's historic buildings offer great photo opportunities, especially in good light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Beyazıt Square to be a historically rich and lively public space, offering a genuine slice of Istanbul life. Its accessibility and proximity to key landmarks like Istanbul University and the Beyazıt Mosque are frequently praised. However, some note the need for vigilance against pickpockets in the bustling environment.
"Cozy area, never sleep or get quiet. Beyazit Square is a great spot for locals and tourists. Very close to Grand Bazaar. A long street filled with shops, pedestrians and sellers."
Abu Firas
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Saturday lunch break sanctuary - who knew?
Stumbled into Beyazıt Square around 12:49 on a Saturday and honestly, it felt like finding a secret pause button in the middle of Istanbul's beautiful chaos. While the rest of the city is honking, hustling, and generally being fabulous but overwhelming, this square just... breathes.
The midday crowd here moves at a completely different pace - locals actually sitting and chatting instead of power-walking to their next appointment. Watched an elderly gentleman feed pigeons for a solid 20 minutes while university students sprawled on benches with books. It's like someone sprinkled chill powder over the whole area.
Perfect spot if you need to decompress between mosque visits or shopping marathons in the Grand Bazaar nearby. The surrounding Ottoman architecture gives you plenty to look at without demanding your full tourist attention. Plus, decent shade options if you're visiting during those "why did I wear black in Turkish summer" moments.
Pro tip: Grab a simit from a nearby vendor and embrace the slow life for 30 minutes. Your feet (and sanity) will thank you. Just don't expect WiFi paradise - sometimes disconnecting is the whole point! 📍🕌"
Tom Dobler
"Beyazit square is a vibrant and historic public area located in place to the grand bazaar as well as the Sultan Beyazit Camii (mosque) in old Istanbul, Turkey. It is adjacent to the university of Turkey and the public Square is filled with many cultural activities, including local musicians, students, couples and families. A truly relaxed and wonderful place to visit."
Bobby singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended and budget-friendly option is the Havaist bus service. Havaist #12 is a popular route that can take you directly or with a short transfer to Beyazıt Square. Taxis are also available but are significantly more expensive.
Yes, Beyazıt Square is well-connected by public transport. You can use trams and buses, and having an Istanbulkart will make your journeys seamless and cost-effective.
For exploring Istanbul, the Istanbulkart is your best friend. It works on trams, buses, metro, and even public ferries, making it easy to hop between attractions like Beyazıt Square and other districts. +1
While Beyazıt Square itself is generally safe, some travelers advise caution in certain less tourist-centric areas. Sticking to well-known districts like Sultanahmet, Beyoğlu, and Şişli is often recommended for first-time visitors.
Yes, taxis are available throughout Istanbul, including to Beyazıt Square. However, be prepared for potentially higher fares, and it's always a good idea to ensure the meter is used or agree on a price beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Beyazıt Square is a public space and does not require an entrance ticket. You are free to wander and explore the square at your leisure.
As a public square, Beyazıt Square is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and attractions will have their own operating hours.
Entry to the Beyazıt Mosque is generally free for visitors. However, modest dress is required, and donations are appreciated.
Yes, you'll find numerous street vendors around Beyazıt Square selling a variety of souvenirs, local crafts, and snacks. Haggling is often expected.
Visiting during weekday mornings can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light and a lively atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The main gate of Istanbul University is a prime spot for photography. The Beyazıt Mosque also offers stunning architectural shots. The square itself provides a great backdrop for capturing the city's vibrant street life. 
While generally accepted, it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors or those engaged in prayer.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful warm light that enhances the architecture and atmosphere. Weekday mornings can be good for capturing the square with fewer people.
There are no general restrictions on photography in the public areas of Beyazıt Square. However, inside mosques, it's respectful to avoid flash photography and be mindful of worshippers.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide shots of the square and details of the architecture. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, consider the safety tips shared by travelers, especially regarding keeping an eye on children in crowded areas and securing belongings. Utilizing the Istanbulkart for public transport can make family outings more affordable and convenient.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Utilizing public transport with an Istanbulkart is an economical way to explore the city from Beyazıt Square and beyond. Don't hesitate to engage with friendly locals if you need directions or recommendations.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Capture the dynamic energy of the street vendors and the daily life unfolding in the square. Remember to be respectful when photographing people, and consider visiting during quieter times for unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Beyazıt Square's Significance
+1The presence of the Beyazıt Mosque adds a spiritual dimension to the square, offering a place of worship and architectural beauty. Surrounding the square, you'll find a lively atmosphere with street vendors selling everything from traditional Turkish delights to souvenirs, reflecting the ongoing pulse of daily life in Istanbul.
For visitors, Beyazıt Square serves as a gateway to understanding the blend of history, education, and commerce that defines Istanbul. It's a place where you can observe local life, admire Ottoman architecture, and feel the city's vibrant energy.
Navigating Istanbul's Public Transport
When arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST), the Havaist bus service is a highly recommended and cost-effective alternative to taxis. Routes like Havaist #12 can take you directly to key areas like Beyazıt Square, offering a comfortable and affordable transfer into the city.
For those looking to save even more, the train system is another option, though the Havaist bus is often considered more convenient for direct access to popular tourist spots. Understanding these transport options will help you navigate Istanbul like a local and maximize your exploration time.
Safety and Awareness in Crowded Areas
Simple precautions, like using a cross-body bag zipped up or a money belt, can make a significant difference. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive electronics openly. Following safety tips shared by locals can help ensure a worry-free experience.
While Beyazıt Square is a vibrant and generally safe area, being prepared and mindful of potential risks will allow you to fully enjoy the historical and cultural richness it offers without unnecessary stress.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit