Tepebaşı

Could a cemetery become a cool hangout? Here in Tepebaşı, that’s exactly what happened. This Istanbul neighborhood, perched above the Golden Horn, has quite the story. Tepebaşı, meaning “hilltop”, wasn’t always the trendy spot it is today. It started as the Petit Champs de Morts cemetery. Imagine a quiet, somber place. Then, a transformation occurred. Tepebaşı blossomed into a lively hub with garden cafes, as described in Thomas Roueché’s piece on Istanbul’s jazz scene in Cornucopia 51. This vibrant atmosphere still thrives, especially along Meşrutiyet Caddesi. This street is a foodie paradise, stretching from the bustling Balık Pazarı in Galatasaray to the Şişhane metro station. Another key artery, Tarlabaşı Bulvarı, offers a dramatic view. Imagine sipping coffee as the sun sets over the Golden Horn. This broad boulevard runs up to Taksim Square and is a local landmark. While a carpark sadly replaced the old cemetery and later park, the café overlooking Tarlabaşı still offers breathtaking sunset views. If Meşrutiyet Caddesi’s culinary delights aren’t enough, Asmalımescit beckons. This vibrant district, nestled between the Marmara Pera Hotel and the Tünel end of İstiklal Caddesi, is another hotspot for food and fun. Tepebaşı remains easily accessible. The Şişhane metro, Tünel funicular, and İstiklal’s nostalgic tram offer convenient transport links. Taxi drivers instantly recognize “Teppy Bashy” so getting a ride to Beyoğlu is a breeze. If traffic slows you down, hopping out near the British Consulate and Rixos Hotel offers a pleasant alternative. Tepebaşı is more than just a trendy district. It’s a testament to Istanbul’s ability to transform and reinvent itself, while preserving echoes of its past.