Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)
The bridge across the Golden Horn between Eminönü and Karaköy. Fishermen line the upper deck, restaurants fill the lower level; today's bridge opened in 1994.
Early in the morning, hundreds of fishing lines hang from the railings of the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü). The bridge crosses the mouth of the Golden Horn in Istanbul, linking Eminönü in the Old City with Karaköy on the Beyoğlu side. Trams run across the top, ferries pass underneath.
History of the Galata Bridge
The idea of bridging the Golden Horn is old. In 1502–1503, at the request of Sultan Bayezid II, Leonardo da Vinci drew a single-span bridge. It was never built.
The first bridge on today's site opened in 1845. It was wooden and was known as Cisr-i Cedid, "the new bridge". A second wooden bridge followed in 1863, then a third, floating on pontoons, in 1875. In 1912 a fourth, built by a German company, opened. This floating bridge charged a toll until 1930 and is remembered for the cafés on its lower level. It was badly damaged by fire in 1992.
The present bridge, the fifth, was completed in December 1994. It is about 490 metres long, and its central section can open to let large ships through.
What to do
On the upper deck, amateur anglers fish all day, with buckets of small fish at their feet. The T1 tram runs down the middle. The restaurants and cafés on the lower level opened in 2003, modelled on those under the old bridge.
From the bridge you see Süleymaniye and the New Mosque on one side and the Galata Tower on the other. Sunset over the Golden Horn is the best time.
Visiting
Reach the bridge from the Eminönü or Karaköy stops on the T1 tram. Walking across takes a few minutes. Ferry piers sit at both ends. At the lower-level restaurants, ask about prices before you sit down.
Tip: walk from Karaköy towards Eminönü for the full skyline of the Old City in front of you.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Galata Bridge connect?
It crosses the Golden Horn, linking Eminönü (Fatih) with Karaköy (Beyoğlu).
When was the current Galata Bridge built?
The present bridge, the fifth on the site, was completed in December 1994.
Why are there so many fishermen on the Galata Bridge?
Fishing from the upper deck is a long-standing local pastime, and anglers are there from early morning.
Are there restaurants under the Galata Bridge?
Yes. The lower level is lined with fish restaurants, cafés and bars facing the Golden Horn.