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Galata is the former name of the Karaköy neighbourhood in Istanbul, which is located at the northern shore of the Golden Horn. The district is connected to the historic Fatih district by several bridges that cross the Golden Horn, most notably the Galata Bridge. The medieval citadel of Galata was a colony of the Republic of Genoa between 1273 and 1453. The famous Galata Tower was built by the Genoese in 1348 at the northernmost and highest point of the citadel. Galata is now a quarter within the district of Beyoğlu in Istanbul.
There are several theories concerning the origin of the name Galata. The Greeks believe that the name comes either from Galatai (meaning "Gauls"), as the Celtic tribe of Gauls (Galatians) were thought to have camped here during the Hellenistic period before settling into Galatia in central Anatolia; or from galatas (meaning "milkman"), as the area was used by shepherds for grazing in the Early Medieval (Byzantine) period. According to another hypothesis it is a variant of the Italian word calata, which means "a section of the docks of the ports intended for the mooring of merchant ships, for the direct embarkation or disembarkation of goods or passengers, for the temporary storage of goods and marine equipment", since the neighborhood was for centuries a Genoese colony. The name Galata has subsequently been given by the city of Genoa to its naval museum, Galata - Museo del mare, which was opened in 2004.
The Galata tower is located at a central point and easily reachable through 6 different streets. Once you've paid $7, you go into the elevator halfway up the tower. Then there's a few more steps to go up to reach the restaurant and lookout. The observation deck is pretty much a tight circle around the restaurant, leaving you quite packed with the rest of the people that want to visit. Not a great place for people who suffer from claustrophobia or vertigo. The stairs are tight and ceilings are low. However if you have no problem with these things, it's a great adventure through the layers of the tower. Amazing panoramic view and as a result good memories, awesome pics & video. Place that every tourist and photographer should visit to.
Javeed IslamFeb 7, 2018
Huge queue to get in, regardless of whether wanting to go to the restaurant or admire the view. Amazing view from restaurant up top. Great food, one of the best soup dishes I’ve ever tried ( go for the bean one). Seagull came and said hello through window. Outside on top it is absolutely freezing, so wrapping up is advisable. Small elevator so not sure about wheelchair access but great experience nonetheless
Leon WalkerFeb 20, 2018
It's a really nice place to visit - especially when you have a wonder around the streets in the vicinity of Galata Tower. Lots of little shops and narrow streets give a sense of adventure. Why four stars? Because the queue to get into Galata Tower was massive and people had been waiting ages. I'd recommend finding a quieter time to visit to get the full enjoyment.
Selcuk TurkogluFeb 6, 2018
I am a history buff, and to me, Galata tower is one of the main pillars of historical beauty in Istanbul, I stand in front of that magnificent monolith and can't help but feel amazed at how it was erected that long ago, the stonework, the design, it's just a beautiful structure. From inside you take the lift up a couple of floors short of the top platform where there's a nice restaurant, but the surprise awaits once you step out onto the round balcony where you can see the rooftops of houses under your feet and Istanbul all the way in front of you in a view that can't be described with words, you can also feed the seagulls that fly all around people waiting to be fed, but you have to take care not to lose a finger or two in the process. All in all, an amazing experience that is a must for anyone visiting Istanbul.
haitham al mohandesJan 7, 2018
There is usually a long waiting line to go up. Try to go during the week and up. A 360 view of the Historic part of Istanbul is available. Also the birds are welcoming. It has a restaurant and cafeteria up there. Be careful as it is pretty small up there and you have to walk to your right.
Gülder AkgöğJan 21, 2018
The best view of Istanbul can be seen from Galata tower especially if you visit at sunset. Addmission is 25 TL. Open till 20:00. You might stuck in an hour line but the view is really worth of it. This is one of the must-dos one should take while being in Istanbul. Especially favorable for professional and amateur photographers. Visit and Enjoy!
Shota KiziriaMar 29, 2018
There is an elevator, so it's super easy to reach the top. It's not all the way, you still need to climb stair for 1 floor. There is a restaurant and a cafe/bar at the top. Though overpriced. There is a fee to access the tower. The ledge at the top is very narrow. It's hard to pass people on the fence. The view is spectacular, totally worth it.
Sung ParkMar 10, 2018
An amazing view of the whole city. I think sunsets especially would be beautiful. It's a bit short-lived though, and the limited space can become even more cramped by all the selfie takers. At 25TL it's worth a visit, and queues usually move quickly.
Sia GholamiApr 19, 2018
We wanted to see the sunset and came an hour earlier but the queue for the tickets was so long that nearly missed it. We waited for about 45min. The view is amazing and it was definitely worth the wait. We also took some amazing night shots. Theres is a restaurant at the top, but we skipped it. It was a bit too crowded for my taste, but you can see the city in all directions
Lidija LiksiMay 3, 2018
Actually I’m not lucky because I cant go to the top of the tower, It’s too much crowd. It’s actually one of the most touristic place in Istanbul. Well you will found lot of tourist here. What I would like to share more about is the band who always sing around the tower which give another experience of visiting this place. The sing a song in turkish with guitar and there is an old man who dance all over and over. Around the tower you’ll also found an Ice cream truck to add more street experience for your exploration. In the end it’s depend on how you see things. There’s also a lots of souvenirs shop around here, Me and my friends decide to purchase some cool postcards here.
Khairul UmamJun 8, 2018
Went up to the top of the tower on a cloudy day, but thankfully the views were still breathtaking. After having visited the majority of attractions in the Old Town the week before, it was great seeing it all from the top. A great summary to our trip. The simulation, that you pay extra for, was fun. A nice, different, way of seeing some of the main attractions. It only takes 10 minutes, so just do it.
Matt RenaudMay 25, 2018
There is a great place with a historical texture and history .. great view, of course there are long queues at weekends. You can also get nice shots from across the street. The evening makes a perfect silhouette with the lights. There are places where you can rest and relax while you can not go inside and have your back where you can drink something. It is a huge shortcoming to visit Istanbul and stop here.
abdullah goktasJun 16, 2018
Galata Kulesi (Tower) one of the oldest tower of Istanbul. The view is nice at day time I'm wondering how it could be at night.. Entrance ticket cost 25 Turkish Lira and they don’t allow any kind of tripod ,There is a coffee shop near the tower and inside too with some shops.. we enjoy spending time there and I recommend to go to Galata Tower..
Usman ZiaJun 8, 2018
Galata Kulesi (Tower) one of the oldest tower of Istanbul. The view is nice at day time I'm wondering how it could be at night.. Entrance ticket cost 25 Turkish Lira and heard that you could got it for free.. There is a coffee shop near to the tower and some shops.. we enjoy spending time there and I recommend to go to Galata Tower..
Hatemiyanoo StingeratooMay 28, 2018
We visited the Galata tower when we were in Istanbul. A bit pricey to get to the top. But if you want a good view of the city you might as well invest in this attraction. We loved photographing the city of Istanbul. Got some really good clicks of the Bosphorus and the city dwellings. I'm not sure but I think we paid 50 TL for the two of us to get to the top of the tower. Beware there are a lot of cobblers in and around the area. Especially the one who sits right next to the tower. Total scam. He ripped us off some money. They will tell you stories and polish your shoes and you will think of it as a good gesture because obviously you didn't ask for the service. But No! They will rip you off. I was wearing espadrilles and there is no question of polishing them. Yet he forced my leg onto the polishing apparatus and asked for the money. So be careful ! And beware of your pockets being picked in that area.
Kriti GoelJul 4, 2018
Pretty tower, can have a long line at times, we had to wait for 20 minutes at around 1 PM on a Sunday. You buy tickets at the entrance (25 TL), and take the elevator to the 7th floor. Have to walk up two more to get to the top. The views are interesting and you can get a drink in the cafeteria inside (the black tea ~ 6 TL). They do not have herbal teas in the summer.
Amir H. SadoughiJul 1, 2018
Must-see place for Istanbul visitors. Great views from top. The motion ride on the top was enjoyable too. The area surrounding the tower has a nice historic feel with cobbled streets and nice little shops.
Ahmed Ali MhayJul 17, 2018
The Galata tower is located at a central point and easily reachable through 6 different streets. Once you've paid $7, you go into the elevator halfway up the tower. Then there's a few more steps to go up to reach the restaurant and lookout. The observation deck is pretty much a tight circle around the restaurant, leaving you quite packed with the rest of the people that want to visit. Not a great place for people who suffer from claustrophobia or vertigo. The stairs are tight and ceilings are low. However if you have no problem with these things, it's a great adventure through the layers of the tower. Amazing panoramic view and as a result good memories, awesome pics & video. Place that every tourist and photographer should visit to.
Javeed IslamFeb 7, 2018
Huge queue to get in, regardless of whether wanting to go to the restaurant or admire the view. Amazing view from restaurant up top. Great food, one of the best soup dishes I’ve ever tried ( go for the bean one). Seagull came and said hello through window. Outside on top it is absolutely freezing, so wrapping up is advisable. Small elevator so not sure about wheelchair access but great experience nonetheless
Leon WalkerFeb 20, 2018
It's a really nice place to visit - especially when you have a wonder around the streets in the vicinity of Galata Tower. Lots of little shops and narrow streets give a sense of adventure. Why four stars? Because the queue to get into Galata Tower was massive and people had been waiting ages. I'd recommend finding a quieter time to visit to get the full enjoyment.
Selcuk TurkogluFeb 6, 2018
I am a history buff, and to me, Galata tower is one of the main pillars of historical beauty in Istanbul, I stand in front of that magnificent monolith and can't help but feel amazed at how it was erected that long ago, the stonework, the design, it's just a beautiful structure. From inside you take the lift up a couple of floors short of the top platform where there's a nice restaurant, but the surprise awaits once you step out onto the round balcony where you can see the rooftops of houses under your feet and Istanbul all the way in front of you in a view that can't be described with words, you can also feed the seagulls that fly all around people waiting to be fed, but you have to take care not to lose a finger or two in the process. All in all, an amazing experience that is a must for anyone visiting Istanbul.
haitham al mohandesJan 7, 2018
There is usually a long waiting line to go up. Try to go during the week and up. A 360 view of the Historic part of Istanbul is available. Also the birds are welcoming. It has a restaurant and cafeteria up there. Be careful as it is pretty small up there and you have to walk to your right.
Gülder AkgöğJan 21, 2018
The best view of Istanbul can be seen from Galata tower especially if you visit at sunset. Addmission is 25 TL. Open till 20:00. You might stuck in an hour line but the view is really worth of it. This is one of the must-dos one should take while being in Istanbul. Especially favorable for professional and amateur photographers. Visit and Enjoy!
Shota KiziriaMar 29, 2018
There is an elevator, so it's super easy to reach the top. It's not all the way, you still need to climb stair for 1 floor. There is a restaurant and a cafe/bar at the top. Though overpriced. There is a fee to access the tower. The ledge at the top is very narrow. It's hard to pass people on the fence. The view is spectacular, totally worth it.
Sung ParkMar 10, 2018
An amazing view of the whole city. I think sunsets especially would be beautiful. It's a bit short-lived though, and the limited space can become even more cramped by all the selfie takers. At 25TL it's worth a visit, and queues usually move quickly.
Sia GholamiApr 19, 2018
We wanted to see the sunset and came an hour earlier but the queue for the tickets was so long that nearly missed it. We waited for about 45min. The view is amazing and it was definitely worth the wait. We also took some amazing night shots. Theres is a restaurant at the top, but we skipped it. It was a bit too crowded for my taste, but you can see the city in all directions
Lidija LiksiMay 3, 2018
Actually I’m not lucky because I cant go to the top of the tower, It’s too much crowd. It’s actually one of the most touristic place in Istanbul. Well you will found lot of tourist here. What I would like to share more about is the band who always sing around the tower which give another experience of visiting this place. The sing a song in turkish with guitar and there is an old man who dance all over and over. Around the tower you’ll also found an Ice cream truck to add more street experience for your exploration. In the end it’s depend on how you see things. There’s also a lots of souvenirs shop around here, Me and my friends decide to purchase some cool postcards here.
Khairul UmamJun 8, 2018
Went up to the top of the tower on a cloudy day, but thankfully the views were still breathtaking. After having visited the majority of attractions in the Old Town the week before, it was great seeing it all from the top. A great summary to our trip. The simulation, that you pay extra for, was fun. A nice, different, way of seeing some of the main attractions. It only takes 10 minutes, so just do it.
Matt RenaudMay 25, 2018
There is a great place with a historical texture and history .. great view, of course there are long queues at weekends. You can also get nice shots from across the street. The evening makes a perfect silhouette with the lights. There are places where you can rest and relax while you can not go inside and have your back where you can drink something. It is a huge shortcoming to visit Istanbul and stop here.
abdullah goktasJun 16, 2018
Galata Kulesi (Tower) one of the oldest tower of Istanbul. The view is nice at day time I'm wondering how it could be at night.. Entrance ticket cost 25 Turkish Lira and they don’t allow any kind of tripod ,There is a coffee shop near the tower and inside too with some shops.. we enjoy spending time there and I recommend to go to Galata Tower..
Usman ZiaJun 8, 2018
Galata Kulesi (Tower) one of the oldest tower of Istanbul. The view is nice at day time I'm wondering how it could be at night.. Entrance ticket cost 25 Turkish Lira and heard that you could got it for free.. There is a coffee shop near to the tower and some shops.. we enjoy spending time there and I recommend to go to Galata Tower..
Hatemiyanoo StingeratooMay 28, 2018
We visited the Galata tower when we were in Istanbul. A bit pricey to get to the top. But if you want a good view of the city you might as well invest in this attraction. We loved photographing the city of Istanbul. Got some really good clicks of the Bosphorus and the city dwellings. I'm not sure but I think we paid 50 TL for the two of us to get to the top of the tower. Beware there are a lot of cobblers in and around the area. Especially the one who sits right next to the tower. Total scam. He ripped us off some money. They will tell you stories and polish your shoes and you will think of it as a good gesture because obviously you didn't ask for the service. But No! They will rip you off. I was wearing espadrilles and there is no question of polishing them. Yet he forced my leg onto the polishing apparatus and asked for the money. So be careful ! And beware of your pockets being picked in that area.
Kriti GoelJul 4, 2018
Pretty tower, can have a long line at times, we had to wait for 20 minutes at around 1 PM on a Sunday. You buy tickets at the entrance (25 TL), and take the elevator to the 7th floor. Have to walk up two more to get to the top. The views are interesting and you can get a drink in the cafeteria inside (the black tea ~ 6 TL). They do not have herbal teas in the summer.
Amir H. SadoughiJul 1, 2018
Must-see place for Istanbul visitors. Great views from top. The motion ride on the top was enjoyable too. The area surrounding the tower has a nice historic feel with cobbled streets and nice little shops.
Ahmed Ali MhayJul 17, 2018
The Galata tower is located at a central point and easily reachable through 6 different streets. Once you've paid $7, you go into the elevator halfway up the tower. Then there's a few more steps to go up to reach the restaurant and lookout. The observation deck is pretty much a tight circle around the restaurant, leaving you quite packed with the rest of the people that want to visit. Not a great place for people who suffer from claustrophobia or vertigo. The stairs are tight and ceilings are low. However if you have no problem with these things, it's a great adventure through the layers of the tower. Amazing panoramic view and as a result good memories, awesome pics & video. Place that every tourist and photographer should visit to.
Javeed IslamFeb 7, 2018
Huge queue to get in, regardless of whether wanting to go to the restaurant or admire the view. Amazing view from restaurant up top. Great food, one of the best soup dishes I’ve ever tried ( go for the bean one). Seagull came and said hello through window. Outside on top it is absolutely freezing, so wrapping up is advisable. Small elevator so not sure about wheelchair access but great experience nonetheless
Leon WalkerFeb 20, 2018
It's a really nice place to visit - especially when you have a wonder around the streets in the vicinity of Galata Tower. Lots of little shops and narrow streets give a sense of adventure. Why four stars? Because the queue to get into Galata Tower was massive and people had been waiting ages. I'd recommend finding a quieter time to visit to get the full enjoyment.
Selcuk TurkogluFeb 6, 2018
I am a history buff, and to me, Galata tower is one of the main pillars of historical beauty in Istanbul, I stand in front of that magnificent monolith and can't help but feel amazed at how it was erected that long ago, the stonework, the design, it's just a beautiful structure. From inside you take the lift up a couple of floors short of the top platform where there's a nice restaurant, but the surprise awaits once you step out onto the round balcony where you can see the rooftops of houses under your feet and Istanbul all the way in front of you in a view that can't be described with words, you can also feed the seagulls that fly all around people waiting to be fed, but you have to take care not to lose a finger or two in the process. All in all, an amazing experience that is a must for anyone visiting Istanbul.
haitham al mohandesJan 7, 2018
There is usually a long waiting line to go up. Try to go during the week and up. A 360 view of the Historic part of Istanbul is available. Also the birds are welcoming. It has a restaurant and cafeteria up there. Be careful as it is pretty small up there and you have to walk to your right.
Gülder AkgöğJan 21, 2018
The best view of Istanbul can be seen from Galata tower especially if you visit at sunset. Addmission is 25 TL. Open till 20:00. You might stuck in an hour line but the view is really worth of it. This is one of the must-dos one should take while being in Istanbul. Especially favorable for professional and amateur photographers. Visit and Enjoy!
Shota KiziriaMar 29, 2018
There is an elevator, so it's super easy to reach the top. It's not all the way, you still need to climb stair for 1 floor. There is a restaurant and a cafe/bar at the top. Though overpriced. There is a fee to access the tower. The ledge at the top is very narrow. It's hard to pass people on the fence. The view is spectacular, totally worth it.
Sung ParkMar 10, 2018
An amazing view of the whole city. I think sunsets especially would be beautiful. It's a bit short-lived though, and the limited space can become even more cramped by all the selfie takers. At 25TL it's worth a visit, and queues usually move quickly.
Sia GholamiApr 19, 2018
We wanted to see the sunset and came an hour earlier but the queue for the tickets was so long that nearly missed it. We waited for about 45min. The view is amazing and it was definitely worth the wait. We also took some amazing night shots. Theres is a restaurant at the top, but we skipped it. It was a bit too crowded for my taste, but you can see the city in all directions
Lidija LiksiMay 3, 2018
Actually I’m not lucky because I cant go to the top of the tower, It’s too much crowd. It’s actually one of the most touristic place in Istanbul. Well you will found lot of tourist here. What I would like to share more about is the band who always sing around the tower which give another experience of visiting this place. The sing a song in turkish with guitar and there is an old man who dance all over and over. Around the tower you’ll also found an Ice cream truck to add more street experience for your exploration. In the end it’s depend on how you see things. There’s also a lots of souvenirs shop around here, Me and my friends decide to purchase some cool postcards here.
Khairul UmamJun 8, 2018
Went up to the top of the tower on a cloudy day, but thankfully the views were still breathtaking. After having visited the majority of attractions in the Old Town the week before, it was great seeing it all from the top. A great summary to our trip. The simulation, that you pay extra for, was fun. A nice, different, way of seeing some of the main attractions. It only takes 10 minutes, so just do it.
Matt RenaudMay 25, 2018
There is a great place with a historical texture and history .. great view, of course there are long queues at weekends. You can also get nice shots from across the street. The evening makes a perfect silhouette with the lights. There are places where you can rest and relax while you can not go inside and have your back where you can drink something. It is a huge shortcoming to visit Istanbul and stop here.
abdullah goktasJun 16, 2018
Galata Kulesi (Tower) one of the oldest tower of Istanbul. The view is nice at day time I'm wondering how it could be at night.. Entrance ticket cost 25 Turkish Lira and they don’t allow any kind of tripod ,There is a coffee shop near the tower and inside too with some shops.. we enjoy spending time there and I recommend to go to Galata Tower..
Usman ZiaJun 8, 2018
Galata Kulesi (Tower) one of the oldest tower of Istanbul. The view is nice at day time I'm wondering how it could be at night.. Entrance ticket cost 25 Turkish Lira and heard that you could got it for free.. There is a coffee shop near to the tower and some shops.. we enjoy spending time there and I recommend to go to Galata Tower..
Hatemiyanoo StingeratooMay 28, 2018
We visited the Galata tower when we were in Istanbul. A bit pricey to get to the top. But if you want a good view of the city you might as well invest in this attraction. We loved photographing the city of Istanbul. Got some really good clicks of the Bosphorus and the city dwellings. I'm not sure but I think we paid 50 TL for the two of us to get to the top of the tower. Beware there are a lot of cobblers in and around the area. Especially the one who sits right next to the tower. Total scam. He ripped us off some money. They will tell you stories and polish your shoes and you will think of it as a good gesture because obviously you didn't ask for the service. But No! They will rip you off. I was wearing espadrilles and there is no question of polishing them. Yet he forced my leg onto the polishing apparatus and asked for the money. So be careful ! And beware of your pockets being picked in that area.
Kriti GoelJul 4, 2018
Pretty tower, can have a long line at times, we had to wait for 20 minutes at around 1 PM on a Sunday. You buy tickets at the entrance (25 TL), and take the elevator to the 7th floor. Have to walk up two more to get to the top. The views are interesting and you can get a drink in the cafeteria inside (the black tea ~ 6 TL). They do not have herbal teas in the summer.
Amir H. SadoughiJul 1, 2018
Must-see place for Istanbul visitors. Great views from top. The motion ride on the top was enjoyable too. The area surrounding the tower has a nice historic feel with cobbled streets and nice little shops.
Ahmed Ali MhayJul 17, 2018
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
Wander is a travel search engine that allows you to find the perfect travel destination that fits your budget and preferences.