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Book Galata Tower Tickets
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
- Get a magnificent bird’s eye view of Istanbul from the top of the Galata Tower and enjoy a hassle-free experience with an express elevator to the lookout platform.
- Catch sight of landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Museum, Suleymaniye Mosque, or the Topkapi Palace.
- Be a local in Istanbul as you take to its ancient and vibrant streets between Taksim and Karaköy.
- Ride one of the oldest subways in the world before you explore Istiklal Street.
- Enjoy access to the Galata Tower with an optional audio guide app that shares fun facts about the tower.
- Get a magnificent bird’s eye view of Istanbul from the top of the Galata Tower and enjoy a hassle-free experience with an express elevator to the lookout platform.
- Catch sight of landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Museum, Suleymaniye Mosque, or the Topkapi Palace.
- Be a local in Istanbul as you take to its ancient and vibrant streets between Taksim and Karaköy.
- Ride one of the oldest subways in the world before you explore Istiklal Street.
- Enjoy access to the Galata Tower with an optional audio guide app that shares fun facts about the tower.
Inclusions
- Entry to Galata Tower
- Express elevator to the lookout platform of the Galata Tower
- Audio guide app (Optional)
Exclusions
- Meals
- Hotel transfers
- Transport
- Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens or a camera with panoramic capabilities to capture the expansive views of Istanbul from the top of the tower.
- Please note that there is mostly no internet or very little signal in the museum. Please download the Audio Guide App on your own smartphone before your visit.
- Remember to bring your earphones.
- Please check your voucher for the audio guide instructions.
- Note: As of Nov 1, 2023, the Observation Terrace on the 8th floor will be closed due to restoration. Other floors can still be visited.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo (Save 13%): Galata Tower Tickets + Basilica Cistern Tickets with Audio Guide
from €85
€73.90
13% off
- Gain entry to Galata Tower and fast-track access to Basilica Cistern, all in one cost-saving combo.
- Ride the elevator up Galata Tower, an ancient watchtower, for panoramic views of Istanbul, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Suleymaniye Mosque.
- Capture stunning Istanbul views at your own pace, with unlimited time for photography, and enjoy the multilingual audio guide for enhanced insights.
- Jump ahead in line with skip-the-line tickets and be amazed by this sunken palace, which has a huge artificial lake as big as two football fields.
- Learn about the Basilica Cistern's rich history and Byzantine engineering mastery with a multilingual audio guide available in eight languages.
- Gain entry to Galata Tower and fast-track access to Basilica Cistern, all in one cost-saving combo.
- Ride the elevator up Galata Tower, an ancient watchtower, for panoramic views of Istanbul, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Suleymaniye Mosque.
- Capture stunning Istanbul views at your own pace, with unlimited time for photography, and enjoy the multilingual audio guide for enhanced insights.
- Jump ahead in line with skip-the-line tickets and be amazed by this sunken palace, which has a huge artificial lake as big as two football fields.
- Learn about the Basilica Cistern's rich history and Byzantine engineering mastery with a multilingual audio guide available in eight languages.
Inclusions
Galata Tower
- Entry tickets to Galata Tower
- Multilingual audio guide
- Express elevator to the lookout platform of the Galata Tower
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry to the Basilica Cistern
- Instant mobile ticket
- Multilingual audio guide
Galata Tower
- Tip: Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture the panoramic views from the top of the tower.
- Remember to bring your earphones.
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: The ground inside the cistern can be uneven and slippery in some areas, so wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
- It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo (Save 20%): Galata Tower Tickets + Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
from €81
€64.74
20% off
Get two different views of Istanbul from the Galata Tower and a Bosphorus cruise with this budget-friendly combo ticket.
- Everything you get: Entry to the Galata Tower with express elevator access to its lookout platform and an optional audio guide, plus a 3-hour luxury Bosphorus dinner cruise featuring a 4-course Turkish meal, live performances, and a private table.
- Why choose this: You’ll get to see stunning 360° vistas of Istanbul from the Galata Tower’s observation deck, plus views of historic landmarks like the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Maiden’s Tower lit up from the waters of the Bosphorus Strait.
- Perfect for: Instagram-worthy photographs from the Galata Tower before dining while enjoying authentic Turkish meze while sailing past Istanbul’s illuminated waterfront, with live folk and dance shows and DJ music.
Get two different views of Istanbul from the Galata Tower and a Bosphorus cruise with this budget-friendly combo ticket.
- Everything you get: Entry to the Galata Tower with express elevator access to its lookout platform and an optional audio guide, plus a 3-hour luxury Bosphorus dinner cruise featuring a 4-course Turkish meal, live performances, and a private table.
- Why choose this: You’ll get to see stunning 360° vistas of Istanbul from the Galata Tower’s observation deck, plus views of historic landmarks like the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Maiden’s Tower lit up from the waters of the Bosphorus Strait.
- Perfect for: Instagram-worthy photographs from the Galata Tower before dining while enjoying authentic Turkish meze while sailing past Istanbul’s illuminated waterfront, with live folk and dance shows and DJ music.
Inclusions
Galata Tower:
- Entry to Galata Tower
- Express elevator to the lookout platform of the Galata Tower
- Audio guide app (based on option selected)
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise:
- 3-hour Bosphorus cruise
- 4-course Turkish dinner
- Live entertainment and DJ
- Unlimited soft drinks
- Free Wi-Fi on board
Exclusions
Galata Tower:
- Transfers
- Food and drinks
Bosphorus Cruise:
- Transfers
Galata Tower:
- Internet connectivity in the Galata Tower museum can be patchy. Please download the audio guide app on your smartphone before your visit.
- Remember to bring your earphones.
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise:
- Carry your passport or a valid photo ID.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Dietary needs such as vegetarian, pescetarian, and halal can be accommodated.
- Languages spoken on board are English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Dutch, and Russian.
- This experience is weather-dependent. An alternative date or a full refund is provided if the activity is canceled due to inclement weather.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo (Save 10%): Galata Tower Tickets + Hagia Sophia Tickets with Audio Guide
from €78.50
€70.68
10% off
- Combine breathtaking views from Galata Tower with an in-depth guided tour of Hagia Sophia, including skip-the-line entry, with this cost-saving combo.
- Skip the lines to check out the mosaics on the dome of the Hagia Sophia depicting the Virgin Mary, angels, and saints, a testament to Byzantine artistry.
- Learn about the massive wooden doors adorned with signature Ottoman geometric patterns and the Sultan's Loge from your guide.
- Ascend 167 feet above Istanbul's bustling streets to the summit of the Galata Tower with an audio guide to learn about the tower's 675-year history.
- Spot cultural touchstones like Dolmabahce Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Suleymaniye Mosque from the tower's observation deck.
- Combine breathtaking views from Galata Tower with an in-depth guided tour of Hagia Sophia, including skip-the-line entry, with this cost-saving combo.
- Skip the lines to check out the mosaics on the dome of the Hagia Sophia depicting the Virgin Mary, angels, and saints, a testament to Byzantine artistry.
- Learn about the massive wooden doors adorned with signature Ottoman geometric patterns and the Sultan's Loge from your guide.
- Ascend 167 feet above Istanbul's bustling streets to the summit of the Galata Tower with an audio guide to learn about the tower's 675-year history.
- Spot cultural touchstones like Dolmabahce Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Suleymaniye Mosque from the tower's observation deck.
Inclusions
Hagia Sophia
- 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- English-speaking tour guide
- Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- Self-paced exploration after guided tour
- Audio guide app in 23 languages
Galata Tower
- Entry to Galata Tower
- Downloadable audio guide
- Express elevator to the lookout platform
Exclusions
Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower
- Headphones
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Look for the intricate Ottoman calligraphy inscriptions throughout the Hagia Sophia, especially the large medallions with verses from the Quran.
- During high season, the security check waiting time for Hagia Sophia is around 1 hour.
- Hagia Sophia may be closed during prayer times as it is a place of religious worship.
- Strict dress code: Guests must dress modestly and cover their knees and shoulders. Women should also partially cover their hair with a scarf.
- Hagia Sophia features ramps and elevators for wheelchair accessibility.
Galata Tower
- Tip: After soaking in the breathtaking views from the Galata Tower, head down to Karaköy for a refreshing Turkish coffee at the Spice Bazaar.
- The Galata Tower's observation deck requires climbing over 200 stairs. This may not be suitable for guests with mobility issues.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo (Save 12%): Galata Tower Tickets + Bosphorus Cruise Tickets with Audio Guide
from €57.50
€50.72
12% off
- Ready for an Istanbul adventure? This budget-friendly combo lets you conquer the city's must-sees and marvel at its skyline from land and sea.
- Board a Bosphorus cruise that takes you past ancient giants like Dolmabahce Palace and Rumeli Fortress, sharing the Bosphorus with the Istanbul Sapphire.
- Don't just see the sights, hear their stories! This 90-minute cruise with an audio guide brings history to life as you sail by.
- Once a watchtower guarding Constantinople, the Galata Tower now boasts spectacular views of old and new Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia.
- Learn the rich history of the Galata Tower, spanning the Byzantine and Ottoman eras to modern Turkey, through a downloadable audio guide.
- Ready for an Istanbul adventure? This budget-friendly combo lets you conquer the city's must-sees and marvel at its skyline from land and sea.
- Board a Bosphorus cruise that takes you past ancient giants like Dolmabahce Palace and Rumeli Fortress, sharing the Bosphorus with the Istanbul Sapphire.
- Don't just see the sights, hear their stories! This 90-minute cruise with an audio guide brings history to life as you sail by.
- Once a watchtower guarding Constantinople, the Galata Tower now boasts spectacular views of old and new Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia.
- Learn the rich history of the Galata Tower, spanning the Byzantine and Ottoman eras to modern Turkey, through a downloadable audio guide.
Inclusions
Bosphorus cruise
- 90-minute Bosphorus cruise
- Audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese
Galata Tower
- Entry to Galata Tower
- Downloadable audio guide
- Express elevator to the lookout platform
Exclusions
Bosphorus cruise
- Headphones
Bosphorus cruise
- Galata Tower
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Ciragan Palace
- Ortaköy Mosque
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Beylerbeyi Palace
- Üsküdar
- Maiden Tower
- Topkapi Palace
- Hagia Sophia
- Seaside Villas
Galata Tower
- Tip: Treat yourself to traditional Turkish delicacies at the Galata Restaurant at the top of the tower.
- The Galata Tower's observation deck requires climbing over 200 stairs. This may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
Bosphorus cruise
- Tip: After the cruise, savor fresh seafood delicacies at Anadolu Kavigi, a fishing village that used to be a checkpoint since Byzantine times.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Make the most of Istanbul
Your Galata Tower tickets explained
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
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
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
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
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 historyTop landmarks to spot from the Galata Tower
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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
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
Opening hours
Getting there
Entrances
Facilities
Rules
Visitor tips
Dine
Stay
Shop
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.
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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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.