Galata Tower

Came on an overcast Saturday with light showers and there was still a line to get into the tower. There is a ticket office onsite but we had bought online in advance. Once they scan tickets at door you take an elevator to level 6 and you have a spiral staircase up to level 7 and the outside level 8. The staircase is tight with up and down traffic and the outside balcony is a tight space as well. Great views! You have to come back down all the stairs with each floor having an exhibit and showcasing the history of the tower and area. Great information and well displayed. If you were not able to handle the steps all the way down it seems like you could ask for a ride on the elevator. It is well staffed with a gift shop prior to exiting. Lots of cafes and stores around. No public toilet in the tower. You would need to visit a cafe nearby.

1. So beautiful: location, surroundings, tower itself 2. Make sure it's hard to get to from the sea, too high 3. Worth visiting any season and date time 4. Lots of visitors anytime 5. Fantastic feelings

Such a cute place to take photos! We didn't have time to visit inside the tower, just took photos on the street. If we had more time, we definitely would have visited the inside of the tower.

A wonderful opportunity to see the city from a bird's eye view of 360, a view of Sofia and the entire panorama of the city. Entrance is paid, the platform inside the tower has different tiers, on one there is a model of the city, above there is an exit to the observation part. A must-see when traveling to Istanbul.

The tower has a great history and that was the reason of my visit… but the price of the ticket is not really worth what you get for it. You can go up with an elevator having a view of the city from the top then, descending, you can step at every of the 6 levels below to see a little collection of findings..

Galata Tower is probably the one place to buy tickets in advance, as it’s always crowded. I think it’s a mandatory tourist stop, but only once. I’ve been there multiple times with friends and family, and I wouldn’t go alone by myself. Don’t get me wrong, it has great 360 views, rich history, and it is a unique experience. However, I feel the magic is gone after the first visit. I was lucky enough to get in free this time, maybe because it was a Sunday? I’m not sure. You can either go up the stairs or take the elevator. You have to take the stairs to come down unless you have a disability or can’t use stairs. The highest floor has a balcony where you can walk outside around the tower, which is the best part. The other floors have changed since my last visit. There’s no longer a restaurant, and there’s a gallery floor instead. I didn’t see the virtual experience either. Overall, it’s a good place to learn about history and brush up on your knowledge.

Istanbul boasts some incredible spots, and this particular one is a must-visit, despite the bustling crowds. The vibrant atmosphere adds to its charm, making the experience all the more enjoyable. While you're there, be sure to indulge in the delightful sweets from the nearby cafés; they offer a tempting array of flavors that you won't want to miss.

Honestly, the place is very crowded and it is impossible to enter the tower and the prices are very exaggeratedly expensive. There is nothing beautiful in the place except the tower. I recommend visiting other places such as Sultan Ahmed or Hagia Sophia because you will have a better experience there. There is nothing to do in the tower except eating and the food is very expensive.