Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.

When it was built, the stone Galata Tower was the tallest structure in Istanbul, its nine stories rising high to nearly 220 feet (67 meters).

The Galata Tower was known as “Tower of Christ” when it was erected in 1348. It was later used by the Ottomans as an observation tower from which to spot fires. The tower was damaged by two major blazes in the 18th and 19th centuries. Since its latest large-scale restoration in the 1960s, the tower has been opened to the public and now offers visitors a great vantage point from which to see the city and the Bosphorus.

Climb the tower to access the outdoor panorama balcony. From here you will get a different perspective of the landmarks that define Istanbul. Take in the strait that divides Europe from Asia, and cuts straight through Istanbul. The Galata Bridge connects the two continents and can be seen as well.

See if you recognize other famous sites, such as Topkapi Palace, the minarets and dome of the Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. The ambiance at the top of the tower is enhanced by the regular calls of the imam from the loudspeakers of the nearby mosques, reminding all Muslims to come to prayer.

It is clear where the Golden Horn, a natural harbor, get its name from when you view it from the Galata Tower at sunset. Relax at the restaurant and café on the upper floors and consider a visit to the nightclub at the top. Turkish night shows at the tower mix harem-style entertainment with folk dancing in a display of color and energy.

Galata Tower is on the north side of the Golden Horn, in Beyoğlu, Istanbul’s “New Town,” and is accessible by public transport. The balcony of the tower is open daily, with longer hours in the summer months. There is a lift to the seventh floor, but you will have to climb the last two flights of stairs to the top. The restaurant is very popular, so book ahead if you can. Entry to the tower is half price on Mondays.

Plan a trip to see Galata Tower

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Gleam Bomonti Hotel

Şişli

￥162,823

per person

Oct 22 - Oct 24

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Istanbul (IST)

9/10 Wonderful! (526 reviews)

I highly recommend ! Very professional staff and clean rooms !! 5 star service

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2026

Demiray Hotel & Spa

Istanbul City Center

￥176,317

per person

Oct 22 - Oct 24

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Istanbul (IST)

9/10 Wonderful! (174 reviews)

Doesn’t like much outside but you step inside to the most beautiful lobby and helpful staff. A porter to help with luggage. Connecting Family Rooms - great. Bathroom sink a little small but sufficient. Room size was ok. Restaurant food and views amazing!!! On top of a hill. Kinda hard to get too even by car. Most major attractions are walking distance about 10 minutes. Pool - sucks - too deep for non-swimmers. There’s no shallow to deep end. It’s all one level and you need a swimming cap to use pool. The Spa area is nice and clean and quiet.

Reviewed on Jul 30, 2026

Port Bosphorus Hotel

Istanbul City Center

￥171,500

per person

Oct 22 - Oct 24

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Istanbul (IST)

8.8/10 Excellent! (627 reviews)

This is a great overnight hotel for embarking a cruise as just have to cross road and the port is right in front of you. It’s a no frills hotel but serves a decent breakfast a The major sight are an easy tram ride away

Reviewed on Aug 3, 2026