Tünel
Duration
30 min
Admission
Free
Best time
Anytime
Budget
Free
About this place
Tünel is one of Istanbul's most charming and historic landmarks, a short underground funicular railway connecting the waterfront neighbourhood of Karaköy with the lower end of Istiklal Avenue in Beyoğlu. Opened in 1875, it is the second oldest underground urban railway in the world after London's Metropolitan line. The two-stop journey lasts just 90 seconds but saves a steep and lengthy uphill climb.
Tips
Ride the Tünel at least once for the novelty and history of the experience — the 90-second journey is one of Istanbul's most charming and affordable treats. The upper Tünel station opens directly onto the atmospheric Tünel Square, surrounded by antique shops, jazz bars, and some of Beyoğlu's most characterful cafés and bookshops. From here, Istiklal Avenue stretches northward and Asmalı Mescit's meyhanes are just steps away. The Tünel is easily reached on foot from the Galata Tower and Galataport, making it a convenient and historic link between Karaköy and the heart of Beyoğlu.