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Galata Tower

Galata Tower, built in 1348, offers stunning views of Istanbul. Once a watchtower, it now features a café, restaurant, and museum in a vibrant, historic area.

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TravelCurious Tip

Combine a trip up the tower with a walk down nearby Istiklal Street.

Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, located in the Beyoğlu district, overlooking the Golden Horn. Originally built in 1348 by the Genoese as part of their fortifications, the tower was initially known as the "Christea Turris." Standing at a height of 66.9 meters (about 220 feet), it offers a stunning panoramic view of Istanbul, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The tower has served various purposes throughout history, including as a watchtower, a lighthouse, and even a prison at one point.

Its distinct conical roof and medieval stone structure make it an architectural marvel. Visitors can access an observation deck at the top, which provides one of the best views of the city, including the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the Old City. Today, the Galata Tower houses a restaurant, a café, and a museum, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The area surrounding the tower, with its narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere, is also known for its bustling cafés, shops, and galleries, contributing to the tower’s place as a cultural hub in Istanbul.

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in Istanbul

The Bosphorus Strait is a crucial waterway that divides Istanbul between Europe and Asia making it the only city in the world to span two continents.

Church of St. Anthony of Padua

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua, built in 1912, is Istanbul’s largest Catholic church, featuring neo-Gothic architecture, stained glass, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Roman Catholic Church Santa Maria Draperis

Is one of the most historic Roman Catholic churches in Istanbul.

Neve Shalom Synagogue

Located in the Karaköy quarter of Beyoğlu district, the synagogue was built due to an increase in the Jewish population in the old Galata neighborhood in the late 1930s.

Karakoy is one of Istanbul's historic districts, on the European side of the city. Dating back to the Byzantine era, it has now become a vibrant shopping hub.

Galata Köprüsü

The famous bridge over the Golden Horn, with wonderful views of old Istanbul.

Related Tours

Off the Beaten Path: Taksim to Galata Private Walking Tour

Explore the cultural heart of Istanbul for centuries on a walking tour, where East meets West, and where history meets modernity. On your private tour, you will:

Enjoy the comforts of a private vehicle throughout the tour, including hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Discover the vibrant Taksim Square - the central point of metropolitan Istanbul.
Explore the artistic Cihangir neighbourhood, and enjoy a soft drink & snack on one of Istanbul's most famous rooftops, which boasts spectacular views over the Bosphorus!
Visit the antique district of Çukurcuma where you will be able to find an astounding array of treasures.
Walk both the famed Istiklal shopping street and step off-the-beaten-path to explore small alleys and passageways full of charming eateries, shops and other surprises.
Visit the incredible landmark Church of St Anthony of Padua, Istanbul's largest Roman Catholic church.
Walk by the Neve Shalom Synagogue, the largest Sephardic synagogue in Istanbul.
Explore the Galata area, the old Genoese quarter, famed for the Galata Tower and artisanal shops.
Your tour ends at a café, with spectacular views over Istanbul’s Old town, where you can see the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar or you can enjoy a relaxing transfer back to your preferred location.

On your private walking tour of Istanbul, you will visit Istanbul’s cultural centre, which remains largely undiscovered by travellers. Enjoy a journey into the vibrant district of Beyoğlu, where you will explore several of its neighbourhoods, from Taksim to Galata. First, discover Taksim Square, one of the main centres in Istanbul, thronged with locals in cafes. Next, your private guide will help you discover CIhangir, where you will enjoy a respite, along with spectacular views of the Bosphorus. After, enjoy a walk through Çukurcuma, where antiquities and local treats abound. Enjoy meandering through the small streets of Istiklal, where you’ll discover hidden churches, passages, stalls, and taverns. Your tour finishes in the famed neighbourhood of Galata, the old Genoese quarter with its tower looming over the city. While in Galata, your guide will point you in the direction of great food and drink before departing.