Walk Across Historic Galata Bridge

Galata Bridge crosses the Golden Horn, connecting the historic district of Eminönü with the neighborhood of Karaköy. The current bridge has two levels: the upper deck carries vehicles and pedestrians, while the lower level holds restaurants and cafes serving seafood with a water view. The upper railings are lined with fishermen through the day, rods out over the water and buckets at their feet. Crossing on foot is one of the best free experiences in the city. Watch the fishing, look back at the Sultanahmet skyline, and if you time it right, catch the light over the Golden Horn around sunset.

What to do on the bridge

• Walk across between Eminönü and Karaköy with views of the Golden Horn, the Süleymaniye Mosque and the Galata Tower.
• Watch the fishermen: rods line the upper railings all day.
• Eat underneath: the lower level is full of fish restaurants and cafés.
• Try balık ekmek at the fish boats on the Eminönü side.

Tips

• Restaurants on the lower level can be pushy; check prices on the menu before you sit down.
• Nearby sights: the Spice Bazaar and the New Mosque are right at the Eminönü end.
• Getting there: the T1 tram crosses the bridge, with stops at Eminönü and Karaköy.

What’s nearby

At the Eminönü end, grab a balık ekmek and visit the Spice Bazaar. At the Karaköy end, walk up to İstiklal via the Galata Tower, or take a ferry to the Asian side.

Photos: Maksym Kozlenko, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons