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

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant

Sultanahmet

￥149,623

per person

Nov 22 - Nov 24

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Istanbul (IST)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (887 reviews)

Very and nice and delightful first stay experience with them.

Reviewed on Sep 16, 2026

Blue House Hotel

Sultanahmet

￥267,877

per person

Oct 25 - Oct 31

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Osaka (KIX) to Istanbul (IST)

8.6/10 Excellent! (317 reviews)

Great hotel location and clean room. Breakfast was great and well-stocked until the very end of the breakfast time period. Only downside was the private car we booked with the hotel - we ended up waiting for what turned out to be a shuttle service in the car park at midnight. We turned away and booked our own car, only to be demanded that we also pay for the shuttle even though it’s like a bus service that runs with or without you. In the end, they agreed not to charge us but then asked for the money again at check-out.

Reviewed on Aug 11, 2026