The Galata Neibourhood

All About The Galata Neighbourhood

If you’re someone who loves the bohemian in life, someone who is creative, a little hippy-ish, and someone who adores small thrift stores and bargain shops, then Istanbul’s Galata neighbourhood is for you.

Sandwiched in-between Taksim and Eminonu, with Karakoy somewhere in the middle, the Galata neighbourhood is steeped in history, and has turned itself into somewhere that the hip and trendy go, somewhere which is almost maze-like, but packed with stores, cafes, eateries, and boutique shops. The fact it is literally at the bottom of end of the busiest street in the city (Istiklal Street) is quite ironic, because the Galata neighbourhood feels much more small town, much more history, and much more comfortable for those who don’t want hustle and bustle.

Of course, the key feature of the area can’t be ignored, as it is literally huge! The Galata Tower was built in the 14^th century, and although it was originally built as a defence tower for the city, it is now very useful for visitors who are trying to navigate their way around the city!
As you head down the hill from Istkilal Street, you will notice that the cobbled street becomes narrower, and quieter, although cars and taxis will beep behind you, to get you to move onto the narrow walkway and allow them past! Thankfully, at one point the cars are no longer allowed to pass down the hill, so you don’t have to worry about that; you do however have to worry about how steep the hill gets – take it steady!

The tower isn’t the only place of historical importance in this neighbourhood, as the Galata Mevlevihanesi is somewhere else you should visit. This was a sufi lodge, which was originally built in 15^th century, and is now a museum to enjoy, and a place to check out whirling dervishes every Sunday in the late afternoon. Check out times online and be sure to head there for some cultural enjoyment.

You could really class Galata as a historic quarter of the city, although many other areas would rival it for history and culture. You’ll find antique shops here, with furniture, bags, carpets and art, and you’ll also find boutique clothing shops, with bespoke and unusual pieces for lower prices than you’ll find on the city’s main streets. Of course, if you’re planning on shopping, you’ll need a pit stop, and there are countless trendy coffee shops around Galata, with coffee and cake a must do!

You’ll find the trendy folk in Galata neighbourhood, the hipsters, the musicians, the hip and happening people, and it’s a great mixture of locals, expats, and tourists. You’ll never walk a few feet before hearing music, usually played by a street musician on his or her guitar, and you’ll want to stop and listen, as a breather from the hill you’re walking around!

This is probably the biggest downside of the Galata neighbourhood – it’s very hilly! It’s worth it though, so certainly make this somewhere you visit on your Istanbul travels.

You’ll also find several cheaper accommodation choices around Galata, and if you venture just off one of the side streets, you’ll find yourself at another Metro stop, which saves you from walking all the way up to the top end of Istiklal Street, to the Taksim stop!

The Galata neighbourhood isn’t huge, and it is easy to get around on foot. This is probably because the streets are narrow and maze-like, as we mentioned, and that doesn’t bode well fro travel via car! Whilst you can easily get a little lost if you’re not sure where you’re going, simply head straight towards the noise and you’ll find the top end of Istiklal Street with ease. The only other negative is that during the early hours, perhaps after 2 or 3am, the streets of Galata can be a little dark and quiet. As with anywhere, it’s not a good idea to walk around on your own at this time, so bear that in mind if you’re heading to a party in Taksim and heading back this way. Whilst it isn’t a part of the city that is known for particular danger or crime, the dark streets could have you losing your way a little if you’re not so used to where you’re going. Simply use your common sense and you’ll be more than fine.

You cannot visit Istanbul without heading to the Galata neighbourhood. You will certainly want to check out the famous tower, so be sure to spare a little extra time to explore this hip and happening area at the same time.