Last updated on .
The Beyoğlu Fish Market (Balık Pazarı) is one of the most popular places for locals and tourists to visit along Istiklal Street in Istanbul. It’s located on Sahne Street, with Flower Passage (Çiçek Pazarı) at the corner.
Fish Market
The Fish Market is a great place to see local life in action. Of course, it’s filled with stalls selling fresh fish, but there are also fruit and vegetable stalls and plenty of shops selling souvenirs to tourists. There are places to grab some street food as well.
European Passage
On the left side of Sahne Street is the entrance to European Passage (Avrupa Pasajı). It’s one of the most beautiful arcade galleries in the area. It was built in 1874 by Austrian architect Domenico Pulgher. In the past, it was decorated with mirrors that were used to reflect the light of gas lamps. The passage has entrances on both Sahne Street and Meşrutiyet Street.
Üç Horan Armenian Church
About halfway down Sahne Street, tucked behind a pair of large doors, is Üç Horan Armenian Church, also known as the Surp Yerrortutyun Armenian Church. It was built between 1836 and 1838 by Ottoman Armenian architect Garabet Amira Balyan (1800-1866) but the parish has existed since at least the early 16th century. The church hosted the funeral of Ara Güler (1928-2018), an internationally known Armenian-Turkish photographer, in October 2018.
You can enter the complex when the doors are open, but it’s not exactly the friendliest place to visit. On both of my visits, the caretaker was quite rude and reluctant to show us the church. No photos are allowed inside.
Nevizade
At the next block is Nevizade, a street famous for its meyhanes (tavernas). It comes to life every night of the week, and there are plenty of great places to choose from.
Enjoy some meze plates, then a main meat or fish dish, and wash it down with some rakı, beer, or wine. You’re guaranteed to have a great time.
