Book Galata Tower Tickets

4.3(9.4K Ratings)

Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

Galata Tower Tickets






Top things to do in Istanbul

Galata Tower | Panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline

Perched atop the Beyoglu District, the Galata Tower rises majestically over Istanbul's iconic skyline, offering sweeping views of the city below. Also known as the ‘Christea Turris’, the tower has played many roles over the centuries, from a Genoese fortress and Byzantine watchtower to an Ottoman prison, and most recently, an observation deck. Looking out from the Galata Tower, you'll be met with sweeping views of the city below. Spot iconic landmarks and capture stunning photos during the golden hour.

Why visit the Galata Tower?

Why visit the Galata Tower?
  • Stunning views of the city: The tower is one of the best vantage points in the city, offering stunning 360-degree views of Istanbul. From the top, you can spot historic buildings like the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, all the way to the Golden Horn, along the Bosphorus.
  • Rich historical significance: Built by the Genoese in 1348, the Galata Tower has stood through centuries of Istanbul’s transformation, serving as a fortress, watchtower, prison, and more. If you want to connect with the city’s past, the tower is a must-visit. 
  • A blend of architectural styles: The tower’s design is a harmonious blend of Genoese, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, reflecting the city’s rich past. Look out for its conical top, rising above the surrounding buildings, a hallmark of the tower’s iconic silhouette. 
  • Ideal spot for sunset views and photography: The Galata Tower’s observation deck offers a front-row seat to a gorgeous sunset over the Bosphorus. Be it a casual visitor or a professional photographer, you will surely be captivated by the tower’s golden hour views. 
  • Central location in a vibrant district: The Tower of Galata is in a lively neighborhood, with numerous boutiques and cafes nearby. After visiting the tower, stop by Istiklal Avenue, or walk around the Karakoy and Tunel areas.

Things to know before booking Galata Tower tickets 

  • The ticket office is in a separate red tram-style building in the square outside the tower. You’ll need to line up there first, then again at the entrance for ticket validation. Pre-book your tickets to skip the first queue and head straight to validation for faster entry.
  • All Galata Tower tickets include access to the express elevator and all levels of the watchtower, including the Galata Tower Museum, simulation areas, and observatory platform. 
  • The Galata Tower entry tickets include an audio guide app, perfect for a self-guided tour of the tower. You can explore at your own pace and learn more about this observatory museum.
  • The Galata and Genoese afternoon walking tour offers a more immersive experience, allowing you to explore the two districts with a local guide, ensuring you do not miss any key details. These tickets also take you to the nearby Istiklal Street, where you can shop for souvenirs, and the Camondo Steps, where you can enjoy a peaceful respite from your busy itinerary. 
  • The ​combo packages offer great value for money and the chance to experience more of Istanbul’s history and beauty. If you pair your Galata Tower visit with a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise, you can save almost 23% as compared to purchasing individual tickets. You can access multiple attractions like the Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern, with skip-the-line privileges, all with a one-time purchase.
  • The Galata Tower’s express elevator takes you to the 7th floor, but you will need to climb two more flights of stairs to reach the top. These stairs are steep and narrow, making it challenging for visitors with limited mobility. However, the viewing binoculars on the 7th floor still provide great views for those unable to ascend further. If you're taller than 5 feet, be prepared to duck slightly, as the ceiling is quite low near the top.

Your Galata Tower tickets explained

Galata Tower tickets

Entry tickets

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who prefer a flexible itinerary
Duration:
Flexible
Guide:
Audio guide app

  • Enjoy a magnificent bird’s eye view of Istanbul from the top of the Galata Tower. Take advantage of the express elevator to reach the top in just a few minutes.
  • Spot iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace and enhance your experience with an audio guide app that shares ​fascinating facts about the tower.

Recommended tickets:

  • Galata Tower entry tickets with audio guide
Galata Tower tickets

Walking tours

Best for: History enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and group travelers
Duration:
3 hours
Guide:
Expert English-speaking guide

  • Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich heritage on this walking tour of the Galata and Genoese districts. A local guide will take you through its history, from its Genoese origins to its transformation under Ottoman rule.
  • Shop for trinkets and souvenirs from Istiklal Caddesi and spend a few tranquil hours at the Camondo Steps, its river-like design offering a peaceful escape from the lively streets. 

Recommended tickets:

  • Galata and Genoese afternoon walking tour with Galata Tower tickets
Galata Tower Tickets

Combo tickets

Best for: Visitors on a budget
Duration:
Flexible
Guide:
Audio app and English-speaking tour guide

  • Experience Istanbul from both land and water with a combo ticket that offers access to the tower and a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise. You can also delve deeper into Istanbul’s history with tickets offering access to the tower and the Hagia Sophia.
  • Skip the line at either the Hagia Sophia or the Basilica Cistern with these Galata Tower combo tickets, which include an audio guide or a live tour guide to acquaint you with their history and cultural relevance. 

Recommended tickets:

Galata Tower highlights

Galata Tower views

Panoramic views

The biggest highlight of the Galata Tower is its breathtaking, 360-degree views of Istanbul. From the top, you can admire the surrounding buildings all the way to the city’s coastline along the Bosphorus, including landmarks like the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque. The tower’s strategic location offers a unique perspective on Istanbul’s old and new, capturing vivid scenes from the bustling city on one side and the historic peninsula on the other.

Galata Tower views
Galata Tower history

Historical legacy

The Tower of Galata is steeped in history, having played a crucial role in Istanbul’s defense system since the 13th century. Originally built by the Genoese as a part of their fortified colony in 1348, the tower went on to serve as a watchtower and a fire tower in the subsequent eras. The tower is also linked to the legend of Hezarfen Ahmed Celebi, who is said to have flown from the tower using artificial wings in the 17th century.

Galata Tower history

Top landmarks to spot from the Galata Tower

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia

Once a Byzantine church, then an Ottoman mosque, and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia is a standing testament to the city’s storied history. Its massive dome and minarets are visible from the top of the Galata Tower.

  • Distance from the tower: 2.7km away
  • Getting there: From the tower, walk to the Karakoy station and take the T1 tram to Sultanahmet. The Hagia Sophia is a 5-minute walk from the Sultanahmet stop.
Hagia Sophia tickets
Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace, once the seat of Ottoman sultans, is a sprawling complex with lavish rooms and a collection of Islamic relics and imperial treasures. From the tower, you can spot the palace's grand silhouette overlooking the Bosphorus Strait.

  • Distance from the tower: 2.7km away
  • Getting there: Take the T1 tram from Karakoy and reach Gulhane station. The palace is about a 10-minute walk from there, adjacent to the Gulhane Park.
Topkapi Palace tickets
Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque

Known for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and six minarets, the Blue Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. You can spot the mosque’s domes and minarets from the top of the tower, standing proudly on Istanbul’s historic peninsula.

  • Distance from the tower: 2.9km away
  • Getting there: To get there directly from Galata Tower, take the T1 tram from Karakoy to the Sultanahmet station, which will bring you within walking distance of the mosque.
Blue Mosque tickets
Golden Horn

Golden Horn

The Golden Horn is a prominent natural harbor and waterway dividing the European side of Istanbul, visible from the top levels of the Galata Tower. Historically, it served as a major trading port and defensive barrier for Byzantine and Ottoman navies.

  • Distance from the tower: 2.9km away
  • Getting there: Descend from the tower and walk to Karakoy. You can walk across the Galata Bridge or take a ferry from Eminonu or Karakoy to reach the Golden Horn.

Best photo locations nearby

Buyuk Hendek Caddesi

Buyuk Hendek Caddesi

Best for: Street views of the tower
Distance from the tower:
750m away
Find on maps

  • Lined with charming cafes and local boutiques, this street offers one of the most iconic views of the tower. Capture beautiful shots of the Galata Tower, rising proudly at the end of the road, surrounded by historic buildings like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
Galata Tower in the autumn sun, Istanbul, Turkey

Tersane Caddesi

Best for: Camera shots with an open-sky background
Distance from the tower:
1.2km away
Find on maps

  • This street is perfect for wide shots that showcase the tower’s height and grandeur. From this angle, you can capture the tower with a clear blue sky as the backdrop, especially in the afternoon when the lighting highlights the tower’s sturdy walls and conical top.
Serdar-i-Ekrem Caddesi

Serdar-i-Ekrem Caddesi

Best for: An artistic, Bohemian, Instagrammable shot
Distance from the tower:
2.4km away
Find on maps

  • This street, with its boutique shops and art galleries, offers a more intimate view of the tower. The winding, cobblestone road with the tower peeking through the alleyways gives a charming vibe, ideal for anyone looking to capture the tower in a less touristy setting.
Galata Bridge

Galata Bridge

Best for: Distance shots with the entire cityscape in frame
Distance from the tower:
2.5km away
Find on maps

  • A short walk from the tower, the Galata Bridge offers a unique angle where you can capture the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and the Galata Tower, all in one frame. This spot is ideal for sunset shots when the tower is illuminated in a soft, golden hue.

Plan your visit to the Galata Tower

Galata Tower opening hours

Daily: 8:30am to 11pm
Last entry: 10pm
Open: Throughout the year

  • Duration of visit: 30 to 40 minutes
  • Best time to visit: If you want a quiet visit with little to no visitors around, we recommend reaching the tower early in the morning, right around 8:30am when it opens. You can also plan an evening visit and look at illuminated cityscapes. March to May and September to October are the best months to visit the Galata Tower. There are fewer visitors than in the summer months and the temperatures are comparatively cooler.
Galata Tower opening hours

Address: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoglu/Istanbul, Turkey
Find on maps

  • By metro: M2 (Sishane)
  • By tram: T1 (Karakoy)
  • By Tunnel funicular: F2 (Sishane)

Pro tip: 

  • From the Sishane metro station, follow signs for Istanbul Galata Universitesi (not Galata Tower) and reach Buyuk Hendek Caddesi, a four-minute downhill walk to the western side of the tower.
  • Galata Tower is located on a hill, and the streets leading up from the waterfront are quite steep. If you're coming from Karakoy or Eminonu, consider taking the T1 tram to avoid the uphill climb.
Galata Tower location

The entrance to the Galata Tower is located at the base of the tower. It is situated in the Karakoy district of Istanbul. After getting off at the ​Sishane metro station, walk down Kemeralti Caddesi towards ​Galip Dede Street, a popular pedestrian street. As you keep walking downhill, you will spot the tower, rising above the surrounding buildings.

If you are coming from​ Istiklal Avenue, head towards Tunnel Square, towards the end of Istiklal. From there, it is a short walk to Galip Dede Street, a few minutes away from the tower. When walking towards the building, you will spot the ​Galata Mevlevi Museum, home to the Mevlevi Order of the Whirling Dervishes. The Galata Tower Bridge is also a short, 5-minute downhill walk from the tower. The bridge spans the Golden Horn and is visible from the tower entrance.

Galata Tower facilities
  • Express elevator: The Galata Tower offers an express elevator that takes you to the lookout platform in just a few minutes.
  • Restrooms: The Tower of Galata has toilet facilities on the 7th floor for your convenience. 
  • Resting areas: The ​inside of the Galata Tower is a circular hall with glass windows and open arches. There are seating areas on the tower base as well as on the 7th floor, making it a comfortable place to wait if the observation deck is too crowded. 
  • Souvenir shop: While the Galata Tower does not have a shop inside the building, the ​Istiklal Street and ​Galip Dede Street around it are lined with fashion boutiques, handicrafts stores, antique shops, jewelry stores, and more. You can pick up miniatures, postcards, stationery items, Turkish bags, rugs, and ceramics to commemorate your visit.
Galata Tower rules
  • The Galata Tower’s express elevator takes you to the 7th floor of the building, from where you have to climb two flights of stairs to reach the top. Please avoid carrying large bags and suitcases as the staircase is quite narrow and steep. 
  • The lookout platform itself is quite narrow in a few sections, where you have to uncomfortably squeeze in between other visitors during peak hours. Do not bring tripods, selfie sticks, and other professional camera equipment, for it will be difficult to carry up the stairs and click pictures in such a narrow space. 
  • Do not bring outside food and drinks to the Galata Tower, especially in the museum section of the building. You are also not allowed to smoke within the building.
Tips to note when visiting the Galata Tower
  • Head to the south or west sides of the observation deck for the most stunning views of the water and the Golden Horn. You'll also find several mounted binoculars available for free use.
  • The observation deck is open-air, meaning you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the surroundings. Keep an eye on the forecast and avoid visiting on cloudy or foggy days. 
  • It can get windy and chilly at the top, especially in the morning or evening — bring a light jacket or scarf.
  • While there are safety rails and barricades, they are quite low, and the observation deck is open-air. If you are visiting with children, make sure to keep an eye on them. 
  • The stairway tunnels on the topmost levels of the watchtower are quite narrow in places and can feel suffocating at times. You can go up to the 7th floor and avoid the cramped staircases, while still taking in the stunning cityscape from a comfortable, enclosed area.
Galata Tower Museum
Dining at the Galata Tower
  • Adiguzel Restaurant (97m away): The Adiguzel Restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, offering a variety of kebabs, mezes, and pide (Turkish flatbread). Make sure to try their grilled meats, including Adana kebab and lamb chops. 
  • Yum Yum Factory (190m away): This restaurant offers a casual dining experience, including gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and loaded fries, prepared with a dash of Turkish flavors. 
  • F & B Culture (190m away): F& B Culture is a chic, upscale spot, offering a blend of Mediterranean and Turkish flavors. Their grilled octopus and seafood risotto are must-try dishes.
  • Guney Restaurant (1.8km away): This restaurant also serves a mix of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine; however, it is more popular for its outdoor seating areas and family-friendly atmosphere. 
  • Galata Lily Cafe Restaurant (1.9km away): The Galata Lily Cafe offers a cozy, laid-back ambiance, specializing in Turkish comfort food like stuffed grape leaves and kofte.
Where to stay near the Galata Tower?
  • Budget stays:
  • Galata Greenland Hotel (290m away)
  • HAUS Suites Galata (350m away)
  • Vavien Hotel (700m away)
  • Mid-range hotels:
  • Galata Rasso Boutique Hotel (130m away)
  • Meroddi La Porta Hotel (140m away)
  • Walton Hotels Galata (300m away)
  • Luxury hotels:
  • Adahan DeCamondo Pera, Autograph Collection (400m away)
  • The Galata Istanbul Hotel-MGallery (1.9km away)
  • 10 Karakoy Istanbul (3.5km away)
Shopping at the Galata Tower
  • Galata Souvenir & Gift Shop (65m away): Offers a variety of classic Istanbul souvenirs such as miniature Galata Towers, Turkish delight, and handcrafted ceramics.
  • Halt (65m away): A trendy boutique specializing in unique, modern Turkish home decor, fashion accessories, and artisan crafts.
  • Bendis Galata (81m away): Known for its handmade jewelry, this shop features pieces inspired by ancient Anatolian designs and Ottoman-era craftsmanship.
  • Sinek Store (81m away): A boutique offering minimalist and eco-friendly fashion, home goods, and accessories with a focus on sustainable design.
  • Soul of Anatolia (90m away): This store specializes in traditional Turkish textiles, including kilims, pillows, and tapestries, representing the rich cultural heritage of Anatolia.
  • Galata Grand Bazaar (1.8km away): A large shop featuring a wide range of traditional Turkish goods such as carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and antiques.

Frequently asked questions about Galata Tower tickets

What type of Galata Tower tickets are available?

Choose between 3 types of Galata Tower tickets- entry tickets with an audio guide, afternoon walking tours, and combo tickets. If you are short on time, we recommend booking the Galata Tower entry tickets. For a detailed tour, go for the Galata and Genoese walking tours. The ​combo tickets are a perfect, budget-friendly option for anyone looking to explore other attractions in the city.

Do I need separate tickets to visit the Galata Tower Museum?

No, all Galata Tower tickets include access to all levels of the tower and the Galata Tower Museum. You do not need separate tickets to browse through the medieval artifacts and restored miniatures. Make sure to stop by the interactive exhibits for a more comprehensive understanding of the watchtower and its role in Istanbul’s past.

Are guided walking tours available?

Book Galata Tower afternoon walking tours and go on a tour around the Galata and Genoese districts. The tour includes an expert, English-speaking guide to acquaint you with the history of the area.

How long does a guided tour take?

The Galata and Genoese Districts guided walking tour takes around 3 hours and includes a detailed walk-through of the watchtower and its surrounding areas. The tour also includes a professional guide, a shopping stop at Istiklal Caddesi, and a visit to the Camondo Steps.

Is it worth purchasing combo tickets?

The ​Galata Tower combo tickets are perfect for anyone looking to explore the city in-depth. With a one-time purchase, you can enjoy skip-the-line access to the Basilica Cistern, or the Hagia Sophia, or go on a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise, and save almost 10% to 20% money as compared to individual ticket prices.

Can I buy tickets to visit the Galata Tower on the same day?

While you can book Galata Tower tickets anytime before your visit, we recommend purchasing them at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance.

What’s the weather like at the top of the tower?

The observation deck of the Galata Tower is on the 9th floor of the building, meaning no matter the temperatures below, the top of the tower is always extremely windy. Dress in layers, if you are planning a visit between November and December. And, apply sun protection and wear a light jacket, if you visit during the spring and summer months.

Is there an elevator at the Galata Tower?

Yes, the Galata Tower offers an express elevator that takes you straight up the observation deck in just a few minutes. However, the elevator only goes until the 7th floor. You have to walk up a narrow staircase to the 9th floor to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Is the tower wheelchair accessible?

The Galata Tower is partly wheelchair-accessible. The tower’s express elevator only goes to the 7th floor, whereas the observation deck is on the 9th floor. While you can enjoy stunning views of the city from behind a glass pane, if you have limited mobility, you cannot walk up to the observation deck on the 9th floor.

Galata Tower Tickets
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
AFFIRM
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.