Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey

The Galata Tower is without a doubt one of the most recognisable landmarks in Istanbul. It also offers visitors spectacular views over the city and the beauty that surrounds it. In this article, we will be sharing an overview of what to expect when visiting the Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey!


    galata tower travel guide
    Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey


    Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey

    History of Galata Tower

    The precise time when the tower was erected is unfortunately not known. However, it is thought to have been around 527 AD, during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. The Genoese called it the 'Christea Turris' or the Tower of Christ, while the Byzantines called it the 'Megalos Pyrgos' or the Great Tower. When a massive earthquake struck Istanbul in 1509, the tower was severely damaged. It was subsequently reconstructed by Hayreddin who was a prominent Ottoman architect. While the origin of the Galata Tower is still unknown, it is thought to have been erected by the Romans or the Genoese Colony.

    Galata Tower story
    Galata Tower is claimed to have been constructed during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian
    Galata Tower turkey
    The exact origin of the Galata Tower still remains a mystery today


    Facts & what to expect

    Standing at the height of 63 metres, Galata Tower is famously known as the eyes of Istanbul. With a balcony at the top, it offers a panoramic view of the city. Galata Tower is a must-see historical treasure of Turkey, located near the end of Istiklal Avenue - Istanbul's most frequented and busiest commercial area. Hundreds of tourists visit the tower every day, therefore you can expect a long queue during your visit.


    Things to do at Galata Tower

    There are a total of 11 levels and an elevator inside. It is recommended that you take the elevator up and then walk down to get a better view of the city. On the top floor, there is a viewing deck with a spectacular view of the city and the Bosporus, as well as a nightclub and café. In the evening, you may enjoy supper with Turkish folk dances and belly dance performances. Please keep in mind that you must make a reservation in advance and inquire about the performance schedule to avoid missing the show!

    views from Galata Tower
    Breath-taking views from the top of the Galata Tower
    galata tower restaurant
    For a full experience, it is recommended that you take the elevator up and then walk down.


    Entrance fees

    The admission fee to the Galata Tower is priced at 130 Turkish lira per person in 2022.


    Nearby attractions to visit

    The Galata Tower is located close to a variety of landmarks, museums, and public spaces, including the Istiklal Avenue, St. Antoine Church, Pera Museum, Galata Mevlevi House, and Crimean Memorial Church, all of which are located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Galata. There are also many restaurants and cafés for you to check out as well. 

    galata tower istanbul ticket price
    Many popular Istanbul attractions are within walking distance from the Galata Tower


    How to get there to Galata Tower

    Take the M2 metro line to the ÅžiÅŸhane Metro Station for the quickest access to the Galata Tower. Galata Tower can be seen from the Metro Station exit and is only a five-minute walk away. You may also use a bus, taxi or by renting a car as well to arrive at Taksim, which is a short walk away.


    Contact information

    Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, 34421 BeyoÄŸlu/Ä°stanbul, Turkey
    Opening hours: 9am–10pm
    Contact number: +90 212 245 41 41


    With views of the Bosporus, Golden Horn, Uskudar, Asiatic hills, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Galata Tower is undoubtedly one of the city's best vantage points. Not only do you get to see the eyes of Istanbul with your own eyes, but due to its strategic place, you can conveniently visit other nearby attractions too.

    Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

    Comments

    1. wah memang cantik ya! dapat lihat pemandangan istanbul pulak tu. memang best. entah bilalah saya boleh sampai ke sana :)

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    2. Seronoknya kalau dapat naik ke menara dan ambil video guna drone of the whole area. The view must be very majestic kan

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    3. cantiknyaaaaa tempat ni, teringin nak pi. i wish one day boleh visit galata tower

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    4. cantek sangat bangunannya.. satu yang luar biasa.. peninggalan lama.. bets kalau dapat naik dan buat tinjauan dari atas

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    5. Cantik sangattt... masuk list i laaa nanti nak ke Turkey ni.. thanks for sharing Gracel.

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    6. Bestnya ada tempat best di Turki macam ni. Kalau saya ke Turkey ni, memang Galata tower ni tempat yang masuk dalam watchlist saya.

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    7. Sekarang kena panggil Turkiye nama baru kat sana hehehe kita memang lama dah ngidam nak jalan-jalan kat sana ni bestnya...

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    8. Thanks for sharing this, i will take note coz i m planning to visit soon

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    9. One look at this tower and you can tell how iconic it is. Would love to visit instanbul one day and witness this majestic architecture with my own eyes.

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