facebook
Duplicating
Tour copied successfully!

Places (POIs) visited during this tour

Place #1
Distance: 0.24mi , Attraction : Historical Landmark
Map Pin
Azapkapı, Tersane Cd. No:10, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
POI 1 Tour Image
Galata Bridge
Welcome to the European side of Istanbul, a vibrant and dynamic part of the city that blends modern life with centuries of rich history. Prepare to experience Istanbul’s cosmopolitan spirit, where the old meets the new, and East meets West in every corner.

Just behind us is The Galata Bridge, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, bridging the Golden Horn and connecting the old city with the newer areas of the city.

The original Galata Bridge dates back to the 6th century, but the current structure is the fourth iteration, completed in 1992. The first bridge was a wooden structure built during the Byzantine Empire, and successive versions have been built over the centuries.

The modern bridge is a steel and concrete structure that spans 490 meters (1,610 feet) across the Golden Horn. It has two levels: the upper level for vehicular traffic and the lower level for pedestrians, with various shops and restaurants.

The lower level of the bridge is famous for its fishermen. The bridge has become a popular spot for local fishermen, and fishing here is a traditional and picturesque activity. The Galata Bridge offers stunning views of the old city, including landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Süleymaniye Mosque.

It’s a vital transportation link, connecting the historic Sultanahmet area with the commercial district of Karaköy and beyond. It helps manage traffic flow between the two sides of the city. The bridge is a lively place where locals and tourists alike gather. The space under the bridge is home to various eateries and cafes, offering a unique dining experience with views of the water.

The Galata Bridge has appeared in numerous photographs, paintings, and films, often symbolizing the connection between Istanbul’s historic past and its vibrant present. "The Water Diviner" from 2014, directed by Russell Crowe, features scenes set in Istanbul, and the Galata Bridge can be seen in some of the cityscape shots.

Read More

  https://www.introducingistanbul.com/galata-bridge
Place #2
Distance: 1.75mi , Attraction : Shopping, Murals
Map Pin
Arap Cami, Fermeneciler Cd. No:79, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
POI 2 Tour Image
Karakoy District
Right behind us is The Galata Bridge, connecting Karaköy to the Eminönü district. It offers stunning views of the Golden Horn, a natural harbor that has played a significant role in the city's history. We explored the bridge as our last Place on part one, and now on the other side, we’ll get moving into Karakoy, part of the European side of Istanbul.

Karaköy has a rich history dating back to the Byzantine era when it was known as Galata. The district played a crucial role in trade and commerce due to its strategic location on the Golden Horn. Over the centuries, it has been a hub for trade, transportation, and finance.

Karaköy has long been a commercial and financial center, hosting numerous banks, businesses, and trading activities. Its proximity to the historical Galata Tower and the iconic Galata Bridge adds to the district's charm.

In recent years, Karaköy has undergone significant urban renewal and gentrification, transforming it into a trendy and vibrant neighborhood. Old warehouses and buildings have been repurposed into art galleries, boutique hotels, restaurants, and cafes, attracting a younger and more cosmopolitan crowd.

Karaköy has become a hub for contemporary art and culture, with numerous art galleries and cultural spaces showcasing the works of local and international artists. The district's artistic atmosphere and creative energy contribute to its appeal.

The neighborhood boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of dining options, from traditional Turkish eateries to trendy cafes and international restaurants. Visitors can explore the local food markets and sample a variety of delicious dishes.

Karaköy is well-connected in terms of transportation. The Karaköy Ferry Terminal provides ferry services across the Bosphorus to various parts of Istanbul, while the district is also served by tram and bus lines.

Read More

  https://www.roadiscalling.com/karakoy-istanbul-neighborhood-guide/
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour

Map Pin Place 1 Galata Bridge
Map Pin Place 2 Karakoy District
Map Pin Place 3 Karakoy Palace
Map Pin Place 4 Bankalar Caddesi (Banks Street)
Map Pin Place 5 SALT Galata
Map Pin Place 6 Kamondo Stairs
Map Pin Place 7 Galata Tower
Map Pin Place 8 Story Time
Map Pin Place 9 Museum of Turkish Jews
Map Pin Place 10 Cafe Scene
Map Pin Place 11 Istiklal Avenue
Map Pin Place 12 The Mevlevi Museum and Whirling Dervishes
Map Pin Place 13 Famous Figures
Map Pin Place 14 Tram System
Map Pin Place 15 Galatasaray High School
Map Pin Place 16 French Street
Map Pin Place 17 Crowded
Map Pin Place 18 Turkish Bath
Map Pin Place 19 Climate
Map Pin Place 20 Cicek Pasaji
Map Pin Place 21 Sweet Tooth
Map Pin Place 22 Taksim Square
Map Pin Place 23 Government Structure
Map Pin Place 24 Lesser Known Facts and Places
Map Pin Place 25 Hookah
Map Pin Place 26 Vodafone Stadium
Map Pin Place 27 Dolmabahce Palace
Map Pin Place 28 Dolmabahce Clock Tower
Map Pin Place 29 Dolmabahçe Camii
Map Pin Place 30 Bosphorus
Map Pin Place 31 Story Time
Map Pin Place 32 Cuisine
Map Pin Place 33 Galataport Promenade and Terminal
Map Pin Place 34 Istanbul Museum of Modern Art



This is a premium tour, click below for complete access!

 
How to take a UCPlaces tour
Taking a UCPlaces tour is fun and easy.
Download the app (Android or iOS), purchase the tour (either here on the website, or from within the app).
That's it, you're ready to go!
When you want to start the tour, find the tour in the app (via a quick in-app search or by clicking the tour link received in your confirmation email) and click "Start Tour" (headphones recommended for best experience.)
* After purchasing a tour you will receive a purchase confirmation email including the tour link and instructions on how to take the tour, so you don't have to remember anything now.
How does the tour work?
UCPlaces acts as your personal tour guide, providing self-guided audio tours fully navigated within our app using GPS-based navigation. You won't need to switch between external navigation apps.
Whenever you approach a point of interest (POI) on the tour, our app will automatically play the relevant audio story at the right time and place.
If you start the tour before reaching the first POI, the app will navigate you to the starting point and then begin the tour.
How is this more convenient than a traditional tour?
UCPlaces offers an innovative and flexible way to explore exciting destinations on your terms.
Here are some key advantages over traditional tours:
  • No need to commit upfront or purchase in advance; buy a tour only when you're ready to go.
  • Walk at your own pace.
  • No waiting for groups; go on your schedule.
  • Take the tour in your preferred language.
  • Start, stop and continue the tour whenever you want.
  • Returning to the same destination? Take the tour again, and again, and again... And bring a friend!
  • Enjoy preferred prices.

What's included?
  • A self-guided audio tour taken via the UCPlaces app [Android / iOS (iPhone) / Apple CarPlay].
  • Tour route map and in-app GPS navigation (via the UCPlaces app).
  • Audio stories for places visited during the tour.
  • Apple CarPlay connection (for iOS users); for a seamless driving tour experience.
What's NOT included?
  • Earphones (highly recommended).
  • Smartphone.
  • Any kind of transportation (including tickets and passes).
  • Tickets to the attractions on your tour.
  • Food and drinks
  • Physical tour guide.