Last Sunday, I had one of my most peaceful and beautiful days in Istanbul. Normally I don't prefer to go out on weekends because the city is usually very crowded. Istanbul is always lively, especially on Sundays, and sometimes this crowd can tire people. But last Sunday was different. For some reason, the city was quieter and I decided to enjoy being outside.
I started my walk from Şişli and walked to Taksim Square. The weather was great. It wasn't cold at all, it could even be considered quite hot for spring. The sky was clear and there was a soft energy on the streets that made people happy.
When I arrived at Taksim Square, I first prayed at Taksim Mosque. After that peaceful moment, I slowly started walking towards Istiklal Avenue. I like to visit this street whenever I have free time because it has a unique atmosphere. There are always people walking, historical buildings on both sides, bookstores, cafes, street sounds and a red nostalgic tram that adds a special beauty to the street.
Normally, Istiklal Street is very crowded and it becomes difficult to walk comfortably. But this time the street was much quieter. I don't know why. Maybe it was due to economic problems, maybe it was due to the small number of tourists. Whatever the reason, this calmness made me happy because I was able to live the street slowly and peacefully.
I took a lot of photos while walking. The red tram, colorful streets, old buildings and the moments when the evening lights started to burn created very beautiful frames. Sometimes the beauty of a city is hidden in small details, and I could really feel it that day. Each corner was like a separate photo frame.
During my walk, I sat in a Turkish-German cafe for a while and spent time. I've shared it before, but it felt so good to go again. Sitting there, watching people and enjoying the good weather gave me peace.
Then, continuing to walk, I passed in front of Galata Tower and started to go down to Karaköy. My walk from Şişli to Karaköy lasted almost three hours, but I enjoyed every minute of it. I wasn't in a hurry. I wanted to feel the streets, the air and that moment.
One of the best things about the day was that I was alone. Walking alone gave me a different peace of mind. I was listening to music while walking. Sometimes I turned down the music and listened to the sound of the street; people's speeches, the sound of the tram, the steps and the vitality of the city... Sometimes when the street noise increased, I turned the music back on. This was a very nice balance between my own world and the city.
It was as if time had slowed down. Everything was flowing calmly and I was in that moment. Such days remind people how valuable the simple moments of life are. There is no need for big plans, rushing or rushing; just walking, observing and enjoying the moment is enough.
Last Sunday, it wasn't just a walk in Istanbul. It was also a reminder of slowing down and noticing the beauties around me. Istiklal Avenue gave me peace that day and I am very happy to capture these beautiful moments with photos.
