Galata Tower
Galata Tower
4.5
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
About
Temporarily closed. This historic watchtower, also known as the Galata Kulesi Museum, can be found at the end of Istanbul’s Istiklal shopping street. Today, this museum has exhibition spaces where you can learn about the area's history and admire the iconic architecture of this stone tower. Head up to the observation deck, where you'll be treated to sweeping views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait. It gets busy during sunset though—you can skip the lines with an Istanbul Museum Pass. There are loads of shops and restaurants in the area too—you can explore the tower and the surrounding area on a guided tour of Istanbul.
Duration: < 1 hour
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Top ways to experience Galata Tower
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Beyoglu
Istanbul’s most famous street, pedestrianized Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue), throbs day and night and offers a fantastic array of architectural sights, shops, treats, and throngs upon teeming throngs of people. At the avenue’s northeastern end is expansive Taksim Square, thought by many to be the very heart of the city, with many of Turkey’s most renowned restaurants and some of Europe’s most happening nightlife in close proximity. In striking contrast, Beyoglu’s less trafficked areas – such as the affluent Cihangir and the antiques district of Cukurcuma – exude Old World charm and provide contemplative calm and splendid diversion via an assortment of cozy cafes, attractive boutiques, and quiet lanes.
How to get there
  • Şişhane • 4 min walk
Reach out directly
See what travellers are saying
  • shaishavv
    Mumbai, India1,193 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    An historical structure worth a visit
    Rising high above its namesake neighborhood, Istanbul’s Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) dates back to the Genoese presence in Constantinople in the 14th century. An elevator takes you up to a viewing platform located under the roof, which offers panoramic views of the Old City peninsula and Beyoglu neighborhood. Also known as the Galata Kulesi Museum, an iconic symbol situated in the Galata quarter of İstanbul, Türkiye. Considered among the oldest towers in the world and one of the symbols of İstanbul, Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List in 2013. Galata Tower, one of the most important structures that make up the silhouette of İstanbul, was used as a long-term fire watchtower and was named Galata Fire Tower. Galata Tower was first built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinianos in 507-508 AD. The tickets however are pretty expensive & alos long ques when we went there at about 9 PM & hence we didi not go to the top. But the whole area around the galata tower wears a festive look as all lanes around it are full of open air eatereis where you get wonderful food, pastries & icecreams. it was a carnival like atmosphere when we went there & we enjoyed the 2-3 hours we soent there
    Visited November 2022
    Travelled with friends
    Written 2 October 2023
  • Radhika96
    London, United Kingdom54 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing Views From The Top
    A very tall tower surrounded by lots of restaurants, cafes and shops. It can be a long queue to get in especially as they dont allow too many people to go up at the same time. There are amazing views of the city from the top and there are seats to sit down if you want to sit and look at the views. There is a lift which takes you up but for the top 2 floors you have to take the stairs which are very dangerous to go up and down. Be careful if you are disabled as they do not tell you when you get your tickets that there are stairs.
    Visited September 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 4 October 2023
  • 571travel
    Reno, Nevada216 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Put this on your list
    Walked over from the area by the Blue Mosque. Got there first thing in the morning so no line issues. Great views from the tower. Interesting museum items also to see. Don't for get to take some photos when you walk away. I headed towards Taksim Square which I would I would recommend if you like exploring on foot.
    Visited September 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 9 October 2023
  • Anastazija Z
    10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Best view of Istanbul
    We went there in the night and so glad we did! The view is stunning, I believe in the day too, but I think it is even more beautiful in the night. Ticket is around 10€ and I think it is worth the price. You can really see the "entire" city from there
    Visited November 2022
    Travelled with family
    Written 20 October 2023
  • Scott
    Los Angeles, California260 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fun Tourist Location
    This is a fun tourist location that provides you with a GREAT view of the entirety of Istanbul. My wife and I were walking around Istanbul and we came upon Galata Tower. Though I certainly knew about it. And, it can be seen from very far away. But, I was reluctant to go up into it, thinking it would just be filled with tourist. To a certain degree that was the case. But, that did not take away from the spectacular views of Istanbul that can only be seen from this location. The way Galata Tower works is you go and buy your tickets from the sales trailer. You then walk around to the front and you are guided to the elevator by a staff member. Up you go. Once there, the view is astonishing. You can walk around the outside and/or inside of the tower just taking in the beauty of Istanbul. Once you are done, you walk down these fun staircases. Though for people of a certain height, like myself, you have to be careful or you may bang your head. Overall, fun experience.
    Visited September 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 24 October 2023
  • leonardo_1964
    967 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Top view over Istanbul
    The visit of the Galata tower has been our first visit and it was a good thing. This gives a first overview of the city of Istanbul at 360 degrees. Rather expensive (650 TRY meaning around 24 EUR).
    Visited October 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 11 November 2023
  • Manolya Y
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A beautiful view to see all of Istanbul :-)
    I would definetly recommend to visit Galata Tower. The view from the top is just amazing. A special thanks to our lovely tour guide Gamze, who showed us all the important sites in Galata and made our tour very entertaining, informative and enjoyable.
    Visited December 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 6 December 2023
  • Jubin Edachery
    Fremont, California1,372 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Views
    This ancient watchtower is a good spot to give you a birds-eye view of the estuary and the old Istanbul city. The views are absolutely amazing. There is a steep set of stairs to go up, but it's worth it. There are many cafes around the tower as well
    Visited February 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 19 January 2024
  • RPanicher
    Dublin, Ireland263 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent Attraction
    I would recommend visiting this place as early as possible. We reached here are 11:30 AM on a rainy day and had to queue up for 30 minutes or so and we were told that we were lucky as the usual wait is more than an hour. The views from the top was great but due to renovation work on the top floor we could not access it and had to view the cityscape through a glass pane and could not get great photographs. We used an Istanbul EPass which generates the QR code for entry.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 24 February 2024
  • 1957
    Ottawa, Canada827 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Allow yourself time to see it…
    Part of our walking tour, our guide took us there to admire the Galatea Watch Tower and give us its history. It’s definitely an iconing building in Istanbul. Being a Sunday, the lineup to get in were very long, so we walked away. Allow yourself time…
    Visited April 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 7 April 2024
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4.5
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aliceann1
boston, mass.309 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020
The Galata Tower literally towers over the shops and streets of the Karakoy area and is a worthwhile visit while touring that area of Istanbul. The Tram Ride to arrive in the area saves a bit of uphill walking and is a short and inexpensive trip.While it's an excellent photo op to see the contrast of this ancient structure against the hustle and bustle of shops and restaurants in the Karakoy area, it is only worth a trip to the top in good weather. Particularly if there is a long line of tourists waiting to go up, it will be a disappointment on an overcast day That having been said, if the weather is clear and sunny and you don't mind a very crowded viewing platform, it will provide magnificent views of the city and river.
Written 5 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

arzanstudio
Mumbai, India350 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Family
The area surrounding the tower itself is electric and charged with energy. So many shops and restaurants and people, adding colour and life to the area. The tower itself is not as stunning as you might expect, but the view from the top is worth the ascend. Usually large lines can always be found to reach the top, but it’s worth the wait. You get a 360 degree view of the whole city, with the mosques and spires dotting the landscape, and you can see the Asian side clearly too. The coffee shop at the top under the large spire, adds a good respite from the viewing gallery. Some good snacks and tea available here.
Written 2 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

MM0311
Mumbai328 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2019 • Couples
Galata Tower has huge lines to enter, and is very crowded on the top as well. The views are similar to what you would get in other high towers in Istanbul, but since its a historical structure, its a must do at least on the first visit to Istanbul. It has good views of the city, and is nice to visit particularly at sunset for the view.
Written 31 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

sportdoc
Mumbai, India49 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2020 • Couples
I must agree we made a rushed visit to the tower at about 3 pm. the sun was shining hard and so we were hoping to catch lovely blue view of the Bosphorus. It was a good blue. But overall the view was not mind-blowing. Not really worth the money. It was extremely crowded. There is a vey narrow gallery to walk and everyone is struggling to get the best angle for a picture.
Overall, if time and money are not an issue, may be go there. And may be sit at the cafe so you get a peaceful view.
There is a lift included in the price and you just need to climb last 2 floors.
Written 17 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Emma_LNC
Heckington155 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
The price depends on if you're a tourist or not. Tourists pay a higher rate. I thought it was over priced for what is basically a viewing platform. On a clear day the views over Istanbul were exceptional. Getting around the platform can be tricky with the amount of people up there and those trying to take the perfect selfie. Would I recommend visiting? If the queue isn't too long and it's a nice clear day you'll have a great place to take photos. It was a 'tick in the box' visit.
Written 3 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

kiranbabutamt
Houston, United States48 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
June 2022
Recommend getting 5 day museum pass for 550 Lira if you will be seeing Topkaki palace and one other site - will let you avoid ticket lines. You can see in about 1 hour. Elevator to 6th floor. You can walk up the stairs to the top - great views. On the way down will have to come down stairs thru narrow tunnel in the wall and get to see museum exhipits at each floor.
Written 21 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Janine P
Red Deer, Canada3,337 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
June 2022 • Couples
We arrived early on a Sunday morning to go into the tower. We did not pre purchase tickets but easily bought some at the ticket booth. 130 TL admission 40 TL more for interpretive headsets-be prepared to leave passport or other ID, and possibly wait in a long line after to get your ID back.
Enjoyed the tower, very scenic panorama of the city, and interpretive info was good to get a better understanding of the tower history.
Stairwells not made for taller people do may want to use the elevator.
Written 12 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

David D
1,212 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2022
An old tower, dating back to when Galata had a substantial Venetian presence. It was once called the Tower of Christ and was the high point of the walls of Galata. After the conquest it was used as a watchtower to spot fires in the city, which was a vital role in a city as large as Istanbul. Now it is an impressive museum. There are lifts that go nearly (but not all the way) to the top, exhibits about the tower, and telescopes to view. At the top of the tower you can venture out on a stone parapet and take in the panorama of the city. It can be very crowded however, depending on the day and time of day. Sunsets are beautiful from the tower, but this can lead to long queues for entry, and crowds on the parapet.
Written 21 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cajunkaren
New Orleans, LA30 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
The Galata Tower offeres great views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul. An elevator takes you to floor seven and then you have to climb the remaining two floors. If you go when it's busy, you will get trapped on the look-out ledge. Literally could take a half and hour to walk around due to people blocking the walkway (which is about 2.5 feet wide) and taking selfies. I would definitely go again, just not when it was busy. It also has a coffee shop on floor 8 and a restaurant on floor 7. The walk up the hill to get there was a great workout.
Written 23 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Murtaza M
7 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
June 2022
The tickets are to be purchased at the kiosk opposite the tower, you can get the audio guide as well for a little extra. There are lifts present as well however you must walk on the stairs to reach them as well as the rooftop. It is not for the faint-hearted people, especially at the top balcony, the view is panoramic as you can see the entire city from the top. Do exercise caution as there can be several people and the railings are a little higher than waist height. Must visit the place if you are short on time and want to see the entire city. In addition, there are also binoculars inside if you want to focus closely on the mosques and other sites
Written 14 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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Galata Tower - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

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