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.
Galata Tower Tours and Activities
Visit Galata Tower
Shows & concerts
See all 10 activitiesOpens in new tabBosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All-inclusive)
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 43 activitiesOpens in new tabTaste of Two Continents: Istanbul Food Tour
Shopping & fashion
See all 15 activitiesOpens in new tabMonuments of Ottoman Empire Tour - Skip the Line Tickets
History & culture
See all 296 activitiesOpens in new tabBest of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour
Spa & wellness
See all 13 activitiesOpens in new tabIstanbul Turkish Bath in Ottoman Style at Hammam with Drinks
Reviews of Galata Tower
5/5 - Excellent
Awesome views
Popular places to visit
SALT Galata
You can browse the exhibits at SALT Galata, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Istanbul. Add the area's stunning cathedral or notable monuments to your travel plans.
Istiklal Avenue
During your visit to Istanbul, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Istiklal Avenue. Discover the area's fascinating museums and stunning cathedral.
Nardis Jazz Club
Enjoy a show at Nardis Jazz Club, a theatre with a story to tell in Istanbul. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
Church of SS Peter & Paul
Learn about the local history of Istanbul when you spend time at Church of SS Peter & Paul. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
Askenazi Synagogue
Find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Askenazi Synagogue. Add the area's stunning cathedral or notable monuments to your travel plans.
Saint Pierre Church
You can learn about the history of Istanbul when you stop by Saint Pierre Church. Discover the area's fascinating museums and stunning cathedral.
Top Galata Tower Hotel & Accommodation Deals
- Holidays and getaways similar to Galata Tower
- Are there hotels near Galata Tower?
- Hotels near popular Istanbul Attractions
- What kind of hotels are in Galata Tower?
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Taksim Square
- Hotels near Blue Mosque
- Hotels near Grand Bazaar
- Hotels near Hagia Sophia
- Hotels near Bosphorus Bridge
- Hotels near Bosphorus
- Hotels near Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Hotels near Bağdat Avenue
- Hotels near Süleymaniye Mosque
- Hotels near Ataköy Marina
- Hotels near Emaar Square Mall