Istanbul Travel Forum

My best memory of Istanbul, from the first time I was there 10 years before, are the panoramic views from the Galata tower balcony by night, summer and full moon... fantastic!
By then there was an awful touristy folklore performance place on the floor with the balcony.
Is it the same now? In lonely planet I read that there is something like a cafe or something which is open until 8pm, is it true? I would like to go again back to that balcony preferably by night...

Yes, there is still a kitschy folklore show on that floor, and a kitschy souvenir shop on the entrance floor. You have to buy a ticket to go up in the elevator.

You have to buy a ticket to go up to the top. There is the poorly managed restaurant-cafe there, but also you can listen to Jazz at Nardis cafe which is a better option.

Thank you for the replies. Lonely planet says Galata tower is open unitl 8pm. Is it true? How can I find the opening hours?

Hi Elena,

You can avoid the touristic show and just visit the balcony for the view.

Yes, it is true, and I recommend to go there before sunset, when still light but a little touch of brown.

Cheers.
Alper

hi Elena
yes its the same now and a touristic shows continues at night
If you ask about the permission for balcony plaisir at night in your daily trip
I am sure that they will give you the permission and you can avoid to pay the night show
good luck

My point is not if I can avoid paying. My point is that I want to be there at night and have a drink or alternatively to have a coffee during sunset...

Hi Elena
I didnt advice you for the fee but I can only advice you if you want to avoid the "night show" and still if you want to take pictures in the night
You can ask permission.Or if you want to enjoy the show no problem at all
you can take any picture that you want in the night..
In the day time you dont have any proble at all..

Thank you Macit ;-)
One way or another I will go again to the tower to recall all the beautiful memory I have for its views! Can't wait for this travel ;-)