Marvel at Istanbul's natural and architectural beauty from this medieval watchtower.
At nine storeys and almost 67 metres in height, when the Tower of Christ (as it was originally known) was completed in 1348 it was the tallest structure in Istanbul. Still towering above the surrounding buildings, Galata Tower is now the perfect place to get a breathtaking view of Istanbul and its most notable landmarks.This impressive stone structure was used by the Ottomans to keep watch for fires in the city. However the tower itself fell victim to two major blazes in the 18th and 19th centuries and needed to undergo significant restoration in the 1960s before it could be opened to the public.Today, visitors can access the Galata Tower's 360-degree observation balcony and enjoy a bird's eye view of the majestic Bosphorus Strait as it splits Istanbul in two, separating Europe from Asia. The Galata Bridge, which reconnects the two continents, is also visible, as is the medieval Topkapi Palace and the unmistakeable features of the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. The imams' calls to prayer, which emanate from the mosques nearby, only add to the atmosphere.Climb Galata Tower at sunset and you'll understand where Istanbul's natural harbour, the Golden Horn, gets its name. Then head upstairs for some refreshment at the restaurant or café before taking in a vibrant and captivating harem-style folk dancing show at the Galata Tower nightclub.The Galata Tower balcony is open every day, later in the summer, and entry is half price on Mondays. A lift will take you most of the way, but you'll have to tackle the last two sets of stairs on foot. Public transport is an easy and affordable way to get to the tower, which is located in the Beyoğlu or New Town, in north Istanbul. If you're planning on eating at the popular restaurant it is advisable to book in advance.
