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If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of Istanbul, then Galata Tower is a must-visit spot. The tower has become an iconic symbol of Istanbul’s skyline and offers a glimpse into the city’s history. In this article, we will take you through the journey of Galata Tower, from its history to the best things to do nearby.
Galata Tower Restoration Update, February 2024
The Galata Tower won’t be finished with its repairs by March 1st as we were told earlier. Instead, the tower is going to be closed to visitors for a whole month starting from February 23rd.
The main reason for this delay is to do some important strengthening work and fix the outside part of the tower. But there’s a good side to this timing. The work is planned around the time when a lot of swifts (a type of bird) come out of the area. This way, the over 400 bird nests in the tower will be safe and won’t get disturbed by the construction.
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History of Galata Tower in Istanbul
Galata Tower is one of the oldest and most impressive towers in Istanbul, dating its history back to the medieval era. Its unique architecture, which combines Byzantine and Genoese elements, has attracted photography enthusiasts and architecture buffs from around the world. The tower was first built in the 14th century by the Genoese, a group of Italian merchants who lived in Istanbul at the time. It was originally used as a watchtower to monitor the city and the surrounding waters.
The tower has a height of 67 meters and has nine floors. It was initially built with wood, but after being destroyed in a fire, it was rebuilt with stone in the mid-15th century. The Galata Tower’s historical context is significant, as it has played a major role in the city’s development over the centuries. During the Ottoman Empire, the tower was used as a prison, and later on, it was used for various purposes such as a fire lookout and even a radio station.
Inside the Galata Tower, visitors can explore its fascinating interior, including the original bells, which are still on display. Take a photo with the bells and enjoy the stunning Galata Tower panorama that awaits you at the top. While the tower does not have an elevator, the climb is manageable for most visitors.
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Galata Tower: Opening Hours (2024)
The tower has different opening hours depending on the season.
During the summer period, from 1 April to 1 November, it opens at 08:30 and closes at 23:00.
During the winter period, from 1 November to 1 April, it opens at 08:30 and closes at 22:00.
Galata Tower: Ticket Prices (2024)
The entrance fee to Galata Tower is 30€ (1025 TL) for adults.
Free Entry to Galata Tower with Istanbul E-Pass
The Istanbul E-Pass offers a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the city and make the most of your visit to Galata Tower. One of the key benefits of the E-Pass is that it includes a free guided tour of Istikllal Street, allowing you to delve deeper into its history and architectural marvels with the help of a knowledgeable guide.
In addition, the Istanbul E-Pass grants you access to over 50 other attractions across the city. This means you can explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture at your own pace without worrying about purchasing individual tickets for each site.
Skip-the-line Tickets to Galata Tower
To avoid queues, you can purchase your Galata Tower tickets online in advance or consider taking a Galata Tower guided tour that offers skip-the-line access.
What is Inside Galata Tower: 8 Floors
Galata Tower, an iconic symbol of Istanbul, has much more to offer than just its stunning exterior. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll find on each floor of this historical masterpiece:
8th Floor: The Breathtaking Panorama (Closed after November 1, 2023)
Climbing up the stairs from the 6th floor brings you to the pinnacle of the Galata Tower, the 8th floor. This floor is home to the most captivating feature of the tower, the panoramic view balcony. From this vantage point, you can soak in the breathtaking vistas of Istanbul, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring the tower.
7th Floor: A Miniature Istanbul
The 7th floor is a real treat for history and architecture enthusiasts. It boasts a meticulously crafted model of Istanbul at a 1/2500 scale, showcasing the city’s rich architectural heritage. The model includes miniature representations of significant historical buildings, and for a deeper understanding, you’ll find six tablets integrated into the model. To top it off, five observation binoculars offer panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape.
6th Floor: Discover the Maritime Past
The journey through the Galata Tower begins on the 6th floor, where an elevator whisks you away to a captivating world of history. Here, you’ll encounter a remarkable model of a sailing cargo boat, providing insight into the coastal transport practices of the 9th century AD. For young visitors, there’s an engaging video game called “Bul Istanbul” that adds a fun educational twist to the experience.
5th Floor: A Journey Through Time
The 5th floor is like a time machine, transporting you through the ages. It’s arranged as a museum, featuring artifacts from various historical periods, including the Neolithic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. These treasures are carefully displayed in five showcases, offering you a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
4th Floor: The Chain of the Estuary
The 4th floor of the Galata Tower is dedicated to an exhibition focused on the estuary’s chain, a significant artifact symbolizing the Ottoman Empire’s victory and urban identity. This floor also serves as a transition point, connecting the lower levels through tunnel stairs integrated into the building’s walls.
3rd Floor: Ever-changing Exhibits
The 3rd floor serves as a dynamic space for temporary exhibitions, allowing for the rotation of displays at the Galata Tower Museum. This means there’s always something new to discover during your visits.
2nd Floor: Witness History in Motion
On the second floor, history comes to life in a captivating simulation area. A large screen lets you witness an animation depicting Hezârfen Ahmed Çelebi’s legendary flight from Galata Tower to Üsküdar. This floor also houses artifacts and information related to the tower’s history as an observatory.
1st Floor: Souvenirs and Mementos
The 1st floor of the Galata Tower functions as a museum store, making it the perfect spot to purchase gifts and souvenirs related to the tower and Istanbul. You’ll also find replicas of some of the artifacts featured in the exhibition, making it a great place to pick up mementos of your visit.
Ground Floor and Mezzanine
After exploring the 1st floor, you can exit through the mezzanine on the ground floor, which leads to the entrance, allowing you to conclude your visit to the Galata Tower on a high note.
What to Do Near Galata Tower in Istanbul?
- Visit the Istanbul Modern Museum, which is just a 10-minute walk away from Galata Tower. This museum features contemporary art and hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
- Explore the winding streets of the historic Galata neighborhood, where you can find unique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Walk across the Galata Bridge to the historic Eminönü district, where you can visit the Spice Bazaar, take a boat tour of the Bosphorus, or catch a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul.
- Take a stroll along İstiklal Avenue, one of Istanbul’s most popular shopping streets. This pedestrian-only avenue is lined with historic buildings, trendy shops, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
- Visit the Şişhane neighborhood, just a short walk from Galata Tower, which is home to a number of trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants.
- Head to Karaköy, which is known for its street art, historic architecture, and trendy shops and cafes.
Galata Tower Best Restaurants
There are plenty of dining options near Galata Tower that offer a unique Turkish experience. Here are some of our recommendations:
- Antre Gourmet: A charming restaurant that serves traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist.
- Kiva Han: A historic restaurant that serves classic Turkish cuisine in a traditional setting.
- Viyana Kahvesi: Good Coffee with a view and delicious San Sebastian.
How to Get to Galata Tower in Istanbul
Galata Tower is situated in the Galata district of Istanbul, which is easily accessible from most parts of the city. Here are some of the ways to reach Galata Tower:
- By Metro: The nearest M2 metro stop is Sishane Station, which is only a few minutes’ walk away from the tower.
- By Tram: Take the T1 tram to Karakoy stop, then walk up the hill to reach Galata Tower.
- From Kabatas: Take the funicular to Taksim, then walk or take a taxi to Galata Tower.
Stress-Free Transport Cards for Your Istanbul Adventure
We recommend to book transport card, pre-charged with 5 or 10 rides, for a seamless travel experience in Istanbul. Available for pickup at Havalines Kiosks at the airport or delivered to your hotel, this card allows you to effortlessly navigate the city and focus on soaking up the rich history and culture that Istanbul offers.
Best Time of Day to Visit Galata Tower
The best time to visit Galata Tower is during the late afternoon, when the sun is starting to set. The view of the city from the tower is particularly stunning during this time, and the Galata Tower sunset is not to be missed. The tower is also beautifully lit at night, adding to its charm and allure.
How to Skip Queue to Galata Tower?
- One way to avoid waiting in line is to purchase your tickets online in advance or get the Istanbul E-Pass. This will allow you to bypass the ticket booth and head straight to the entrance.
- Another option is to visit the tower early in the morning, when it is less crowded. The tower opens at 9am, so arriving at this time or shortly thereafter can be a good strategy for avoiding the crowds.
- Finally, some tour operators offer skip-the-line tickets for Galata Tower as part of a package deal. If you’re interested in taking a guided tour of the tower or the surrounding area, this can be a good option to consider!
Accessibility of the Galata Tower
Galata Tower is accessible to visitors with disabilities, as there are ramps and handrails installed to help navigate the terrain. However, due to the historic nature of the building and its narrow staircases, it may not be possible for all visitors to climb to the top.
Inside the Galata Tower, visitors can enjoy a comfortable and convenient visit, thanks to the presence of two elevators. The first seven floors of the 6th-floor tower can be reached by elevator, while the final two floors are accessed via stairs. You can also choose to use the stairs entirely when descending from the tower.
Where to Stay Near Galata Tower: Best Hotels of Istanbul
Walton Hotels Galata
Booking.comWalton Hotels Galata is a unique boutique hotel situated within a captivating 98-year-old historical building. Located in the vibrant Galata neighborhood, just off Bankalar Caddesi, the hotel offers easy access to the lively districts of Beyoglu, Karakoy, and Sultanahmet. Known for its bohemian charm, Galata is home to a wide array of trendy restaurants, local shops, nightclubs, cafes, and art galleries. With its trendy ambiance and prime location, Walton Hotels Galata provides a memorable and immersive experience for guests seeking to explore the vibrant cultural scene of Istanbul.
Ecole St. Pierre Hotel
Booking.comNestled in the heart of Galata, the Ecole St. Pierre Hotel holds a special place in history. Designed by the Italian architect Gaspare Fossati, the hotel showcases the rare Galata walls built by the Genoese in the 13th century, creating a fascinating historical backdrop. Within the hotel’s courtyard, guests can indulge in the culinary delights of IL CORTILE Ristorante & Pizzeria, an Italian restaurant that encloses these ancient walls. Immerse yourself in the rich multicultural heritage of Istanbul while enjoying the authentic charm and historical significance offered by Ecole St. Pierre Hotel.
Art Nouveau Galata
Booking.comExperience the essence of bohemian life in the heart of Beyoglu at Art Nouveau Galata. This charming hotel offers a nostalgic journey back in time while providing the comforts of modern Istanbul. With its suites offering captivating views of the iconic Galata Tower, Art Nouveau Galata is ideally located within a short 5-minute stroll from the vibrant Istiklal Street and the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy. Immerse yourself in the romance of old Istanbul combined with the convenience of the contemporary city.
Conclusion: Galata Tower in Istanbul
We hope you enjoyed this guide to experiencing Galata Tower, from its fascinating history to the best things to do nearby. Don’t forget to try out one of the many great restaurants or cafes in the area for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
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