Galata Tower, Istanbul, Turkey

Galata Tower has dominated Beyoglu's skyline since 1348 and still offers the best panoramic views of the city. Above, the Golden Horn, Seraglio Point and Old Istanbul as seen from Galata Tower (looking south).

Originally named the Tower of Christ, it was the highpoint in the city walls of the Genoese colony called Galata.Most of the walls are long gone, but the great tower remains.

Until the 1960s it was a fire lookout tower. Now the upper floors hold an uninteresting restaurant-nightclub, and a panorama balcony.

The panorama balcony, encircling the highest row of windows, is narrow, open to the weather, and not recommended for anyone suffering from acrophobia (fear of heights). The balcony is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm (7 pm in summer) for a few liras (half price on Monday).

Here's the Galata Tower website.

Want to stay in an apartment with fine views of Galata Tower? Click here.

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The big stone tower, with its conical top, is a landmark on Istanbul's skyline.