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Offered languages
- English
If you are looking for something off the beaten path, consider our walking tour from Galata Tower, through backstreets of Galata and Karaköy, then across the Golden Horn to Balat and Fener neighborhoods, two of the most interesting on the old city side of the Golden Horn, followed by a ferry boat ride back to Karaköy. Once home to Greek and Jewish communities for centuries, Fener and Balat are fascination places, an area that is largely still "undiscovered" by tourists.
⦿ Explore the Galata tower, learning it's history and that of the area surrounding it, seeing the beautiful views from the top of the tower
⦿ Explore the charming neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, a very architecturally colorful area.
⦿ Taking a ferry home across Golden Horn and relax on the final leg while enjoying the view.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet your guide in front of (outside) ANEMON KOLEKSİYON GALATA HOTEL, located right next to Galata Tower. Your guide will be wearing a tour guide badge and will be easy to spot.
The tour will end by the Karaköy Ferry Terminal very next to Galata Bridge.
Itinerary
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1Galata Tower
Galata is a charming, historic neighborhood in Istanbul, nestled between Karaköy and Beyoğlu. Famous for its iconic Galata Tower, this area is a blend of old-world charm and modern vibes. Wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets lined with trendy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries.. A perfect spot for history lovers, photographers, and those seeking a lively yet quaint atmosphere!
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
2Kamondo Stairs
Elegant set of 19th-century art nouveau stairs en route to the Galata Tower, popular for photos.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Bulgarian Orthodox Church
Visit the Iron Church (Bulgarian St. Stephen Church): Marvel at this unique Orthodox church made entirely of cast iron, located near the Golden Horn.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Balat
Explore the Balat Market: Stop by the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for antiques, second-hand goods, and unique souvenirs.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Coloured Houses of Balat
Visit Balat: Walk to the neighboring Balat district, famous for its vibrant, pastel-colored houses and photogenic streets. Don’t miss the iconic Rainbow Stairs and Kiremit Street for great photo opportunities.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Ahrida Synagogue (Pass by)
Explore the Jewish Heritage: The Ahrida Synagogue (if accessible) and learn about the Jewish community’s history in Balat.
Admission ticket free -
6Fener & Balat
Colorful streets of Fener and Balat await you. One could describe the combined neighborhoods of Ayvansaray, Balat, and Fener as a miniature chronicle of the Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern times. These streets have hosted the most influential of empires along with their monuments; housed a mosaic of communities.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Fener Rum Patrikhanesi (Pass by)
Ecumenical Patriarchate is recognized as the spiritual center (basically the “Vatican”) of the Eastern Orthodox Christians.
Admission ticket free -
7The Walls of Istanbul
The walls of Constantinople were the greatest fortifications of the medieval age. With various towers and gates, large sections still stand more or less intact today.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8Golden Horn
Finish your day with a stroll along the Golden Horn, enjoying the serene waterfront views.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
9Galata Koprusu
Bascule bridge that spans the Golden Horn provides both a real and symbolic link between two important parts of Istanbul.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10Karakoy
Galata is a charming, historic neighborhood in Istanbul, nestled between Karaköy and Beyoğlu. Famous for its iconic Galata Tower, this area is a blend of old-world charm and modern vibes. Wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets lined with trendy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries.. A perfect spot for history lovers, photographers, and those seeking a lively yet quaint atmosphere!
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- IF ALL INCLUSIVE OPTION IS NOT SELECTED: Galata Tower entry fee (30 EUR pp) is not included in the tour price.
- Please arrive at least 5 minutes before the activity starts as finding a taxi and traffic congestion are always a problem.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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