Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower located in the Galata district of Istanbul. It was built in 1348 as part of the fortifications of the Genoese colony in Constantinople. The tower stands at a height of 63 meters and offers stunning views of the city.

The tower has been used for various purposes throughout history, including as a watchtower, a prison, and a fire lookout. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and features a restaurant and observation deck on its top floor.

Galata Tower has been a major tourist attraction in Istanbul and in recent years, the tower has undergone renovations and restoration work. In 2020, the tower was closed for restoration work and reopened in October 2020.It is an important cultural and historical landmark in Istanbul and is widely recognized as a symbol of the city. It is visited by millions of tourists every year.



Galata Tower Location

Istiklal Avenue

Istiklal Avenue is one of the best places to see and feel the spirit of İstanbul. It is a pedestrian street located in Beyoğlu district; between Taksim Square and Galata and a great attraction for tourists and a favourite meeting spot for locals. That is why it is almost always filled with crowds.

With its modern shops located in 19th century Neo Classical and Art Nouveau buildings and nostalgic trams actively carrying passengers up and down the street all day; Istiklal is a spot where you can witness the fusion of old and new in İstanbul. 

Here are some spots you shouldn’t miss:

Museum of Illusions, Madame Tussauds, Historical Çiçek (Flower) Passage, Saint-Antoine Church, Church of the Holy Trinity, Pera Museum, historic Atlas and Beyoğlu Cinemas. A ride on the Nostalgic Tram is also highly recommended. From art galleries, historical buildings and churches to lively cafes, restaurants, shops and cinemas İstiklal Avenue has it all. So make sure you make a visit and enjoy both the culture and liveliness of the city.

Related Post: Beyoglu, Taksim Museums


Istanbul Museums & Places for Families & Kids (UPDATED: June 2023)

1- Miniatürk (Miniature Turkey Museum)
Location:Sütlüce, Golden Horn
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:09:00 – 18:00 (9:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:200 TL

2- Rahmi Koç Museum
Location:Hasköy, Golden Horn
Closed Days:Mondays
Visiting Hours:09:00 – 17:30 (9:00 A.M. – 5:30 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:300 TL

3- Panorama 1453 History Museum
Location:Topkapı
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:08:00 – 18:30 (08:00 A.M. – 6:30 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:300 TL

4- Vialand Theme Park
Location:Yeşilpınar, Alibeyköy
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:10:00 – 18:00 (10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:55 USD

5- Sea Life Aquarium
Location:Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:10:00 – 20:00 (10:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:720 TL

6- Istanbul Aquarium
Location:Aqua Florya Shopping Mall
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:10:00 – 19:00 (10:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:500 TL

7- Pelit Chocolate Factory & Museum
Location:Esenyurt
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:10:00 – 17:00 (10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:200 TL

8- Museum of Illusions (Istanbul Istiklal)
Location:Istiklal Avenue
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:11:00 – 21:00 (11:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:320 TL – Kids: (5-18 years old): 250 TL – Kids: (0-4 years old): FREE

9- Madame Tussauds Istanbul
Location:Istiklal Avenue
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:11:00 – 19:00 (11:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:405 TL

10- Naval Museum
Location: Beşiktaş
Closed Days: Mondays
Visiting Hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card: Not Valid
Entrance Fee: 200 TL

Istanbul Museums – Entry Fees & Visiting Hours & Location Information – Beyoglu, Taksim Museums (UPDATED: June 2023)

1- Galata Mevlevi House Museum
Location:Şişhane
Closed Days:Mondays
Visiting Hours:09:00 – 18:30 (9:00 A.M. – 6:30 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Valid
Entrance Fee:100 TL

2- Museum of Illusions
Location:Istiklal Avenue
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:11:00 – 20:00 (11:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:320 TL – Kids: (5-18 years old): 250 TL – Kids: (0-4 years old): FREE

3- Madame Tussauds
Location:Istiklal Avenue
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:11:00 – 21:00 (11:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Not Valid
Entrance Fee:405 TL

4- Galata Tower
Location:Galata, Beyoğlu
Closed Days:Open everyday
Visiting Hours:08:30 – 22:00 (8:30 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:Valid
Entrance Fee:350 TL