Why visit / Interesting facts:
- Istanbul's great landmark
- Romantic appearance
- Stunning view over the Golden Horn
Time required: 60 minutes
Public transport:
- Tram Line T1: Eminönü stop
- Tram Line T1: Karaköy stop
Address:
Photos: (see more photos)
Photo: deepgoswami
Things you need to know:
- Galata Bridge is a two-level concrete bridge that spans Bosphorus at the Golden Horn
- The original Galata Bridge, the first bridge spanning the Golden Horn, was built in the early 20th century
- After the old historic bridge became insufficient for modern traffic, the current Galata Bridge was built in 1994
- The lower level of the bridge is lined with restaurants and cafés. The upper level offers sweeping panoramic views of Istanbul's old town, especially breathtaking in sunset
- Hundreds of fishermen stand along the railing trying to catch the biggest fish of the day
- Leonardo da Vinci designed a revolutionary new bridge in 1502 for Galata Bridge's current location. If built, it would have been the longest bridge of its time
What to do there:
- Walk all along the bridge
- On the upper deck watch the row of fishermen cast lines, peering optimistically into murky waters below
- Enjoy the excellent view across the city, the Golden Horn and ships
- Have a rest in one of the cafés of the lower level
Tips & Insights:
- The restaurants in the lower level of the bridge tend to be overpriced
