Galata Tower — originally built in the 14th century (1348)
Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic historic monuments, standing above the Karaköy neighbourhood on the city’s European side. This massive stone tower, about 67 metres tall, overlooks the Golden Horn (Haliç) and the Bosphorus and is one of Istanbul’s main visual symbols.
From its upper platform you get a 360-degree view of Istanbul — from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the Bosphorus and the Galata Bridge. At night, with colourful lighting, the tower is one of the city’s most romantic spots for visitors and photographers.
Today Galata Tower is managed by Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and, after its 2023 restoration, is part of a museum of Turkish civilisations. Inside, exhibitions cover Istanbul’s history, maritime technology and Galata’s cultural heritage.
Access: Şişhane metro station or Karaköy tram stop.
