Galata Bridge

Bridge · Bosphorus

Galata Bridge

Bridge · Bosphorus

4

Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Galata Köprüsü, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye

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Galata Bridge by Photo by José Fuste Raga./age fotostock
Galata Bridge by Photo by José Fuste Raga./age fotostock
Galata Bridge by Photo by José Fuste Raga./age fotostock
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null
Galata Bridge by null

Highlights

Cross the bustling Galata Bridge over the Golden Horn for stunning views, lively fishermen, and a taste of authentic Istanbul life below.  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Galata Köprüsü, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye Get directions

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Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Galata Köprüsü, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye Get directions

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Features

wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Jul 25, 2025

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@afar

"A Bridge with a View There's no cost attached to oneof Istanbul’s most distinctive photo ops, and the only lines are from fishing poles. Cross the historic Golden Horn via the Galata Bridge, where fishermen from every walk of life jostle for space, and touristrestaurants line the lower level (stop in for a drink if you’d like, but the food tends to be overpriced and mediocre). Galata Bridge isn’t beloved for its architecture (fun fact: It is supposedly the bridge for which the card game is named), but rather its views: Topkapı Palace and several domes and minarets in the Old City on one side, and the Galata Tower on the other."

The Perfect Day in Istanbul
View Postcard for Galata Bridge
@afar

"A Bridge with a View There's no cost attached to oneof Istanbul’s most distinctive photo ops, and the only lines are from fishing poles. Cross the historic Golden Horn via the Galata Bridge, where fishermen from every walk of life jostle for space, and touristrestaurants line the lower level (stop in for a drink if you’d like, but the food tends to be overpriced and mediocre). Galata Bridge isn’t beloved for its architecture (fun fact: It is supposedly the bridge for which the card game is named), but rather its views: Topkapı Palace and several domes and minarets in the Old City on one side, and the Galata Tower on the other."

The Best Things to Do in Istanbul
View Postcard for Galata Bridge
@afar

"A Bridge with a View There's no cost attached to oneof Istanbul’s most distinctive photo ops, and the only lines are from fishing poles. Cross the historic Golden Horn via the Galata Bridge, where fishermen from every walk of life jostle for space, and touristrestaurants line the lower level (stop in for a drink if you’d like, but the food tends to be overpriced and mediocre). Galata Bridge isn’t beloved for its architecture (fun fact: It is supposedly the bridge for which the card game is named), but rather its views: Topkapı Palace and several domes and minarets in the Old City on one side, and the Galata Tower on the other."

Wood grain pattern
Local Cuisine You Must Try in Istanbul
View Postcard for Galata Bridge
@cntraveler

Condé Nast Traveler's Alternative Bucket List

"Traffic is notoriously bad in Istanbul, so find an afternoon to skip it altogether and walk over the Galata Bridge, which spans the Golden Horn. You’ll find rows of fishing rods stacked up along the railings, old men grilling their catch on makeshift barbecues, and commuters making their way home. If you time it right, you’ll hear the call to prayer drifting over the Bosphorus as you do it. A perfect slice of Istanbul life."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/conde-nast-travelers-alternative-bucket-list
View Postcard for Galata Bridge

Dave T

Google
The top of the bridge always has people fishing, especially at night, when people bring woodburners and smokers to cook their catch. Really great atmosphere. Only the central point is really a bridge about a third of the expanse because they built under it on both sides and you will find some really good restraunts there. There are some spectacular views here from here.

Harry

Google
Galata Bridge offers a fantastic city view, especially at sunset, with a stunning panorama of Istanbul. The bridge is always lively, bustling with pedestrians, fishermen, and street vendors. Beneath the bridge, there are numerous seafood restaurants serving delicious local dishes. It’s a great spot to enjoy fresh fish while watching boats pass by on the Golden Horn. The upper level is perfect for a scenic walk with a refreshing breeze. The mix of modern and historic elements creates a unique atmosphere. Nighttime views with city lights reflecting on the water are breathtaking. It’s a must-visit for photographers and culture lovers. The bridge connects two vibrant parts of Istanbul, making it both practical and scenic. Whether walking, dining, or just enjoying the view, it’s a memorable experience.

Anne Lysa

Google
Walking across the Galata Bridge was a great experience. The atmosphere on top is especially nice, with fishermen lined up along the edge and their rods reaching out over the water – it looks great, especially at sunset. Under the bridge is also worth a walk, but be aware that the fish restaurants are very pushy. I wasn’t interested in eating there, so I just walked quickly through. It’s a good route if you’re visiting the Egyptian Bazaar, as you can easily combine the two and continue to the other side of the bridge. Definitely recommended. 5/5.

Inzy Ahmed

Google
We only saw the outside of Galata Tower, as the queue was incredibly long and, in my opinion, didn’t look worth the wait — though I could be wrong. If you’re planning to go up, I’d recommend checking if there’s an option to buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to save time. There is a ticket kiosk directly in front of the tower, which is convenient. That said, the tower is still worth a visit — especially in the evening. When it’s lit up, it looks stunning, and the area has a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Even without going inside, it’s a great spot to soak in the energy of the city and enjoy the surrounding streets. When visiting, make sure to try the iconic Basque cheesecake — there’s a spot right outside the tower that’s popular, but I recommend taking a little stroll first. There are several cheesecake shops in the area, each offering great options and good value. It’s worth exploring a few before choosing, as they all looked delicious!

Alyssa Becker

Google
I really enjoyed walking across the Galata bridge. The view in both directions is lovely and you get to see a unique side of the city. The fishing and number of birds due to fishing was interesting to see. We didn’t venture to the restaurants underneath (we were told not to from a few people). The walk across didn’t take long and we thought was well worth it. At both ends of the bridge are great locations to photograph the skylines in either direction.

Estu Dimas Danang

Google
The Galata Bridge has long acted as a symbolic link between the old city of Istanbul, site of the imperial palace and principal religious and secular institutions of the Ottoman Empire, and the modern districts of Beyoğlu, where a large proportion of the inhabitants used to be non-Muslims and where foreign merchants and diplomats lived and worked.

Maximillion Devant

Google
Walked across this bridge many times, great for people watching, There's men fishing day and night, And if you see little kids with them, you give them a little turkish lira, and they'll give you one of those little fish and you can throw it up to the flying seagulls and the seagulls will catch it! Great sunrise 🌅 and sunset 🌇 photos await you on this bridge. Also, every time I took the ferry back from asia, it would drop me on the other side "Karacoy" instead of "Eminonu". So I'd have to walk across the bridge which was nice (not complaining).

Selin Gül Arı

Google
Galata Bridge is a historic bridge in Istanbul that spans the Golden Horn, connecting Karaköy and Eminönü. The first version was built in the 19th century, and the current bridge has been in use since 1994. It is open to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The lower level features restaurants and fish stalls, while the upper level is famous for people fishing. As one of Istanbul’s landmarks, it offers a scenic walk with stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Historic Peninsula.
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Fred T.

Yelp
The Galata Bridge is located in the Golden Horn area and links the Istambul districts of Eminönü and Karaköy. The bridge which is two levels, the top being mixed pedestrian / car and the bottom level (you have to go up in the middle part of the bridge because of the boat crossing area) is mostly restaurants. The upper part of the bridge is a fun walk with tons of fishermen casting lines, and can be quite literally packed with people. The bottom level offers waterline views and be warned some of the most aggressive restaurateur attempting to steer you into their eatery we encountered. It is a fun walk and you should at least do it once. In addition the tram crosses the bridge as well.
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Rachel D.

Yelp
This tower built in the fourteenth century was part of the balata walls when Galatea quarter was a Genoese colony in the Byzantine era. Also used as a lookout tower and dungeon. Amazing how you can see the whole city of Istanbul. The best times to go are sunrise, sunset and night when there is moonlight. It's just absolutely breathtaking which you have to see in person. They have a one way elevator inside to get to the top floor. In which the first two highest floors is all about panoramic views of the whole city. The third floor is a museum where you see many weapons from the Ottoman Empire. The tower was definitely so important to oversee invaders during wars. Definitely a must see in Istanbul!
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Andrea U.

Yelp
We crossed the bridge by foot several times each day. Sometimes we walked across the top where men were fishing, cars & trams were moving here. When we walked under the bridge we passed seafood restaurants & men tried to lure us inside. It was funny to see all the fishing lines next to us. This is a busy foot bridge & to traffic as well.
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Rami H.

Yelp
After exiting the Egyptian Bazar market, I went to the Galata Bridge. The bridge is cross the street from the bazar, and it's nice place to go and enjoy a nice view of the water and city. I crossed the bridge walking. Many people on the bridge fishing.
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Indira B.

Yelp
The bridge is great, but the fishing 24hrs/7days ... Is really something to see, cause it is shocking how little the dishes that they are harvesting from the Bosphorus.
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Jay Y.

Yelp
Ayasoyfa and Sultanahmet Cami are undeniably magnificent, but for me, the most "Istanbul-esque" sight is Galata Bridge. While this bridge is extremely new in respect to the many famous historic landmarks in the city, it is perhaps one of the most interesting places I have ever experienced in my travels. Take a moment and observe the people around you. Against the beautiful Golden Horn backdrop, the bridge is constantly filled with a crowd of both locals and tourists, rushing to everywhere like the ferry piers or the tram stop. Look more carefully and you will notice all kinds of people: young people, old people, people in conservative religious garments, people in the latest modern fashion, people who walked with indifference to the ambiance, people who are awed by the scenery. If you are not rushing to somewhere, you will find it difficult not to be mesmerized by the extraordinarily colorful congregation. Then, how can you not stop in place and behold the spontaneous yet flowing festivity as it transpires around you? Many guidebooks suggest going to Galata Bridge as the beginning or the end of your old city itinerary, but I say to take a step further and make this a key destination on your schedule. Regardless of the duration of your stay in Istanbul, make an effort to make a stop here especially right before sunset! Don't set a schedule when you go to this bridge, because once you arrive, you may lose track of time as you lose yourself in this hypnotizing scenery of diverse people and gorgeous cityscape. Grab a balik ekmek or a simit, take a seat on the foot of the bridge or stand on the bridge with the many fishermen, and embrace Istanbul as it flows around you.
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Brian B.

Yelp
Lovely popular bridge at the mouth of the Golden Horn inlet off the Bosphorous. It connects the historical peninsula where old Constantinople was with Galata area (both on the European continent). In 1453 there used to be a giant chain that spanned the mouth of the Golden Horn that was used as a defensive measure. Enemy ships could no enter the Golden Horn with the chain up.
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Robert H.

Yelp
This bridge has a shop and cafe filled lower deck. It is much cooler to walk below out of the Summer sun, and much more interesting than the upper deck. This bridge connects two of the most interesting older neighborhoods in the city, well worth a walk rather than a taxi or the tram. I live in a river town, and although Altın Boynuz, the body of water it spans, is not a river, I would love to have a bridge like this here.
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Ümit P.

Yelp
its amazing tour. I love it so much. It's like this place is peaceful. Definitely come. You just have to watch the beauty. you have to smell history. Just come and see. I'm sure you'll like it. Because it's a great place.
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Qype User (emma97…)

Yelp
If you are planning to go to Istanbul, this is the place where you should definitely go! There is lots of choices for you either for a drink or have a meal. They also have live music while you are having your meal or drink you can very very enjoy with it.