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Topkapi Palace tickets & tours
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- The Topkapı Palace was the home of the Ottoman Sultan, as well as the center for administration. It has survived four centuries and the rule of 25 sultans.
- Enter the Palace led by a representative, and explore the opulent interiors by yourself at your own pace, assisted by an audio guide available in 10 languages.
- The First Courtyard consisted of a hospital, a bakery, an arsenal, the mint, storage places, and some dormitories.
- Fun Fact: The Byzantine Church of Hagia Eirene was located in the first courtyard but was converted into an armory.
- The Second Courtyard was the seat of the Divan, and also hosted the privy stables and the kitchens.
- The kitchen has on display a collection of Chinese porcelain, which is said to be the third most valuable in the world.
- Upgrade your ticket to include a guided tour of Topkapı Palace and the Blue Mosque to your tour.
- The Topkapı Palace was the home of the Ottoman Sultan, as well as the center for administration. It has survived four centuries and the rule of 25 sultans.
- Enter the Palace led by a representative, and explore the opulent interiors by yourself at your own pace, assisted by an audio guide available in 10 languages.
- The First Courtyard consisted of a hospital, a bakery, an arsenal, the mint, storage places, and some dormitories.
- Fun Fact: The Byzantine Church of Hagia Eirene was located in the first courtyard but was converted into an armory.
- The Second Courtyard was the seat of the Divan, and also hosted the privy stables and the kitchens.
- The kitchen has on display a collection of Chinese porcelain, which is said to be the third most valuable in the world.
- Upgrade your ticket to include a guided tour of Topkapı Palace and the Blue Mosque to your tour.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry into Topkapı Palace
- Access to Harem Museum
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish
- The services of a representative who will lead you to the entrance
- Entry to Blue Mosque (optional)
- 1-hr guided tour of Topkapi Palace & Blue Mosque (optional)
- English-speaking guide (optional)
- The audio guide app is available in English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish. Instructions in voucher.
- You may join one of the following timed entry slots for your chosen date at Topkapi Palace: 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm.
- Be sure to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before your entry time.'
- There is limited internet at the museum/pier so download the app prior to your visit.
- The app does not require internet once it has been downloaded (ensure your GPS is activated). Please carry your own headphones.
- Entry to the Palace is only possible at the time slot selected during booking. Once inside, you can stay as long as you want until the closing time of 5pm.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enjoy the convenience of the skip-the-line entry (less queuing, more viewing!) as well as the company of an expert guide.
- Your expert guide will narrate the fascinating history of the palace and all that you see around you.
- Marvel at the weapons of the Ottoman Army, the beautiful fabrics, jewels, and art.
- In the Palace kitchen, discover an astonishing collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain too.
- The Holy Relics Chamber contains items associated with legendary historical figures such as Prophet Muhammad, Moses, and David.
- Enjoy a visit to the Harem section decorated with beautiful Kutahya and Iznik tiles.
- Enjoy the convenience of the skip-the-line entry (less queuing, more viewing!) as well as the company of an expert guide.
- Your expert guide will narrate the fascinating history of the palace and all that you see around you.
- Marvel at the weapons of the Ottoman Army, the beautiful fabrics, jewels, and art.
- In the Palace kitchen, discover an astonishing collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain too.
- The Holy Relics Chamber contains items associated with legendary historical figures such as Prophet Muhammad, Moses, and David.
- Enjoy a visit to the Harem section decorated with beautiful Kutahya and Iznik tiles.
Inclusions
- Guided Tour of Topkapi Palace
- Harem Section
- English, or Spanish-speaking guide
- Audio App for IOS & Android in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish & Turkish
- Skip the line service with a representative who will lead you to the entrance
Exclusions
- Transportation
- Lunch
- Tip: Monday mornings and the winters are the best time to experience the beauty of the palace properly in peace as it is the least crowded.
- This tour is available in the following languages: English & Spanish.
- Audio App for IOS & Android is available in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish & Turkish.
- Children will be asked to present their valid passports at the entrance of the museums in order to validate their age.
- Please note that this attraction cannot be accessed directly by presenting the digital Pass at the museum. You need to enter with the tour guide.
- It is mandatory for guests to use a headset during the tour. For this reason, be sure to bring your ID card with you when you come to the Topkapi Palace Tour. ID cards will be taken during the use of the headset and will be returned at the end of the tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combos
Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Entry Tickets with Audio Guide
from €119.50
€112.10
6% off
- This combo lets you skip the lines for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern all in one go! Perfect for time-conscious travelers and history buffs.
- Explore the Sultan's lavish chambers at the Topkapi Palace, including the Harem, and marvel at the Imperial Treasury's jewels like the Topkapi Dagger.
- Witness the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia and decipher the cryptic Viking runes etched by ancient visitors, alongside Islamic and Christian art.
- At Basilica Cistern, spot the column shaped like the feathers of a peacock, constructed in memory of the slaves who died building it.
- With multilingual audio guides, unlock the secrets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia's hidden murals, and the Basilica Cistern's haunting Medusa.
- This combo lets you skip the lines for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern all in one go! Perfect for time-conscious travelers and history buffs.
- Explore the Sultan's lavish chambers at the Topkapi Palace, including the Harem, and marvel at the Imperial Treasury's jewels like the Topkapi Dagger.
- Witness the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia and decipher the cryptic Viking runes etched by ancient visitors, alongside Islamic and Christian art.
- At Basilica Cistern, spot the column shaped like the feathers of a peacock, constructed in memory of the slaves who died building it.
- With multilingual audio guides, unlock the secrets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia's hidden murals, and the Basilica Cistern's haunting Medusa.
Inclusions
Topkapi Palace
- Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace
- Access to Harem Museum and Hagia Irene Museum
- Audio guide in Arabic, English, French, German, Russian, and Spanish
Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish
Topkapi Palace
- Tip: In the first courtyard, don't miss Hagia Irene, the oldest church in Istanbul and one of the oldest unreconstructed buildings in the world.
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Don't miss the Deesis mosaic, a recently uncovered Byzantine treasure depicting Virgin Mary, Jesus, and John the Baptist in a scene of intercession.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- The prayer area on the first floor can only be entered by Turkish citizens.
- Hagia Sophia is under renovation, therefore, not all parts of the building are open to the public.
- Due to the Friday prayer, the Mosque will be closed to tourists from 12pm to 2pm. For a smoother experience, it's recommend visiting after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Look out for exhibitions which combine modern art installations with the cistern's ancient architecture, showcasing Istanbul's evolving character.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Blue Mosque Guided Tours with Skip-the-Line Tickets
- Save big on your Istanbul trip with a combo to plan your visit across 3 days to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque.
- You have the flexibility to plan your visit across 3 days. Decide the best time to go that suits your vacation schedule.
- Lavish interiors and tales from Ottoman rule await at Topkapi Palace, along with captivating views of the Bosphorus river from the gardens.
- A cathedral, a mosque, and a museum - your guide will introduce you to the many facets of the architectural feat that is Hagia Sophia.
- With cascading domes, embellished high ceilings, and handcrafted blue ceramic tiles, Blue Mosque is a sight you won’t be forgetting any time soon.
- Save big on your Istanbul trip with a combo to plan your visit across 3 days to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque.
- You have the flexibility to plan your visit across 3 days. Decide the best time to go that suits your vacation schedule.
- Lavish interiors and tales from Ottoman rule await at Topkapi Palace, along with captivating views of the Bosphorus river from the gardens.
- A cathedral, a mosque, and a museum - your guide will introduce you to the many facets of the architectural feat that is Hagia Sophia.
- With cascading domes, embellished high ceilings, and handcrafted blue ceramic tiles, Blue Mosque is a sight you won’t be forgetting any time soon.
Inclusions
Topkapi Palace
- Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace
- 1-hr English-guided tour
Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- 1-hr English-guided tour
- Audio guide in 23 languages
Blue Mosque
- Entry to Blue Mosque
- 1-hr English-guided tour
Exclusions
- Skip-the-line entry to Blue Mosque
Topkapi Palace
- Tip: Try to plan your visit early morning on weekdays for lesser crowds and quieter explorations.
- The attraction is wheelchair accessible. However, access to some areas may be challenging due to uneven surfaces or steps.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: The ground floor offers the best photo opportunities with its exquisite interiors and ceiling.
- This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
- Please note that during the high season, the waiting time for security checks is around 60 minutes.
- To enter the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, women must cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. They must also partially cover their hair with a scarf. Men must cover their knees and shoulders. If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is €1 and a body cover is €3).
- The attraction is wheelchair accessible. However, access to some areas may be challenging due to uneven surfaces or steps.
Blue Mosque
- Tip: The mosque is closed to visitors during prayer times for 90 minutes. It is advised to check the prayer schedule before planning your visit.
- This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
- Please note that during the high season, the waiting time for security checks is around 45 minutes.
- To enter the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, women must cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. They must also partially cover their hair with a scarf. Men must cover their knees and shoulders. If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is €1 and a body cover is €3).
- The attraction is wheelchair accessible. However, access to some areas may be challenging due to uneven surfaces or steps.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
Istanbul Walking Tour with Topkapi Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets and Bosphorus Cruise
- If you're short on time in Istanbul, the combo packs a 1-hour walking tour of the Old City, entry to the Hagia Sophia, and a cruise down the Bosphorus.
- Learn about how the Roman Empire once held chariot races in what is now the Sultanahmet Square as you walk its streets.
- You'll also see the Topkapi Palace, once the home of Ottoman sultans for centuries, and now a museum housing their greatest treasures.
- At the Hagia Sophia, your audio guide will tell you about its history as a church and a museum as you spot the Seraphim murals and Islamic calligraphy on its dome.
- Dive deeper into Istanbul's history with a multilingual audio guide on a Bosphorus cruise, spotting Ottoman structures like the Rumeli Fortress.
- If you're short on time in Istanbul, the combo packs a 1-hour walking tour of the Old City, entry to the Hagia Sophia, and a cruise down the Bosphorus.
- Learn about how the Roman Empire once held chariot races in what is now the Sultanahmet Square as you walk its streets.
- You'll also see the Topkapi Palace, once the home of Ottoman sultans for centuries, and now a museum housing their greatest treasures.
- At the Hagia Sophia, your audio guide will tell you about its history as a church and a museum as you spot the Seraphim murals and Islamic calligraphy on its dome.
- Dive deeper into Istanbul's history with a multilingual audio guide on a Bosphorus cruise, spotting Ottoman structures like the Rumeli Fortress.
Inclusions
- 1-hour walking tour of Istanbul Old City
- English-speaking guide
- Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace
- Access to the Harem section
- Audio guide for Topkapi Palace in English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German
- 90-minute Bosphorus Cruise
- Audio guide for cruise in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese
- Map of Bosphorus for cruise
Exclusions
- Guided tour of Topkapi Palace
- Entry to Hagia Sophia
Walking tour
Sultanahmet Square | Hippodrome | Blue Mosque | Topkapi Palace | Hagia Sophia | Grand Bazaar
Bosphorus cruise
Galata Tower | Dolmabahce Palace | Ciragan Palace| Ortakoy Mosque | Bosphorus Bridge | Beylerbeyi Palace | Uskudar | Maiden Tower | Topkapi Palace | Hagia Sophia | Seaside Villas
- Tip:
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for mobility issues.
- This tour focuses on the exteriors of landmarks and the stories behind them. Entrance fees to Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern are not included.
- You can choose to take the Bosphorus cruise on the same day or the next day. In addition to midday and afternoon departures, enjoy a special evening cruise at 6 PM, available from April to October.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tickets
Combo Guided Tours with Entry Tickets: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern
- Save time and money with this combo ticket valid for 3 days, and enjoy hassle-free access to the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern.
- Skip the lines at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern and enter all the 3 museums to start your guided tour.
- Get the most important information and orientation tips from an official tour guide and benefit from an audio guide app available for Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in 9 languages.
- Following this, feel free to explore the museums at your own pace and listen to the interesting commentary on your audio guides.
- Save time and money with this combo ticket valid for 3 days, and enjoy hassle-free access to the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern.
- Skip the lines at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern and enter all the 3 museums to start your guided tour.
- Get the most important information and orientation tips from an official tour guide and benefit from an audio guide app available for Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in 9 languages.
- Following this, feel free to explore the museums at your own pace and listen to the interesting commentary on your audio guides.
Inclusions
- Skip the line entry to Hagia Sophia
- Guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- Skip the line entry to Topkapi Palace (including Harem section) & guided tour (optional)
- Skip the line entry to Basilica Cistern & guided tour (optional)
- Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace audio guide (English, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, Turkish)
Exclusions
- Headsets
- Hotel transfers
- Meal inclusions
- Please download the audioguide app in your smartphone prior to your tour.
- The audio guide is available for Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in the following languages: English, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish.
- This ticket is valid for 3 days. You may come at the available times, to the meeting points and visit these with your Istanbul Welcome Card guide. You can visit all 3 museums in 1 day or on different days.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Istanbul’s best iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over 2 or 3 days.
- Learn about the illustrious history of each of these landmarks from your expert English-speaking guide.
- Gain valuable insights about the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from your guide before you enter.
- Explore Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern while listening to interesting stories through an audio guide app available in 8 languages.
- Sail away on a relaxing 90-minute cruise of the Bosphorus Waterway as you admire the architectural beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Istanbul’s best iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over 2 or 3 days.
- Learn about the illustrious history of each of these landmarks from your expert English-speaking guide.
- Gain valuable insights about the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from your guide before you enter.
- Explore Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern while listening to interesting stories through an audio guide app available in 8 languages.
- Sail away on a relaxing 90-minute cruise of the Bosphorus Waterway as you admire the architectural beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective.
Inclusions
- 60-min Topkapi Palace tour with skip-the-line entry
- 30-min Basilica Cistern tour with skip-the-line entry
- 60-min Hagia Sophia tour with entry
- 90-min Blue Mosque tour with entry
- 90-min Bosphorus Cruise ticket
- English-speaking guide for all attractions
- Audio app in 10 languages
Day 1
- Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Blue Mosque
- Bosphorus Cruise Tickets
Day 2
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Topkapi Palace's ground floor has the best Instagram potential. You get to photograph the stunning interiors and beautiful ceilings.
- The audio guide is available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish.
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- For Hagia Sophia, Women are required to cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. Their hair should be partially covered with a scarf. Men are required to cover their knees and shoulders. If you don't have a scarf or covering, it can be purchased at the entrance, at your own expense.
- With this admission ticket (except for Hagia Sophia), you will skip the ticket line, but not the security line. During high season, the security check could take up to 30 minutes.
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for pets.
- Your guide will show you the way to each attraction, then you can set your own pace for exploring.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Istanbul
Why visit Topkapi Palace?
- Ottoman opulence: Get a taste of royalty and opulence as you pass through the famed Imperial Gate that the Ottoman Sultans used as the main entrance to Topkapi Palace.
- Architectural masterpiece: With its rich architectural and cultural beauty, this UNESCO World Heritage site draws more than 3 million people every year.
- Historical significance: Venture into the Imperial Treasury that houses prized possessions, the suits of armor of Sultan Mustafa III, and weaponry such as the famous Topkapi Dagger.
- Intricate artworks: Marvel at miniature artworks that depict parts of religious texts, court scenes of various Sultans, and the very first map of the world that was made in 1513.
- Royal residence: The Topkapi Palace harem was the center of the Sultan’s private life. With more than 400 rooms, it is a colossal structure in itself and deserves the admiration that it receives.
Which Topkapi Palace ticket should you buy?
If you are short on time
Go for: Guided tours with skip-the-line access
Guide: Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide, audio guide in 10 languages
Duration: 1 hr 30 mins or flexible, depending on the ticket
- If you have limited time to spend at Topkapi Palace, take one of the many guided tours with either an audio guide or an expert English or Spanish-speaking guide, where you can learn all about the castle’s intriguing history.
- These tickets include skip-the-line access, which allows you to save time by avoiding long ticket queues and directly enter the castle.
Recommended ticket:
If you are on a budget
Go for: Combo tickets
Guide: English-speaking guide, audio guides in multiple languages
Duration: Flexible
- With combo tickets, you can cover many of the top landmarks and experiences in Istanbul with a single ticket, making it easier on your finances.
- Some of these tickets are valid over multiple days, allowing you to visit the attractions according to your convenience, ensuring your trip is comfortable and hassle-free.
Recommended ticket:
If you are a history enthusiast
Go for: Guided tours
Guide: English or Spanish-speaking guide, audio guides in multiple languages
Duration: 1 hr 30 mins or flexible, depending on the ticket
- If you wish to know about Topkapi Palace in depth, opt for one of the guided tours, where an expert guide will take you on an extensive tour and enlighten you about the history of the palace.
- Many of these tickets come with skip-the-line access, giving you direct entry and more time to spend exploring this royal Ottoman residence.
Recommended ticket:
If you want to explore beyond Topkapi Palace
Go for: Combo tickets
Guide: English-speaking guide, audio guides in multiple languages
Duration: Flexible
- Unlock Istanbul’s top experiences and historical landmarks including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Dolmabahce Palace with combo tickets.
- With an English-speaking guide or audio guides in more than nine languages, you can comprehensively explore these attractions.
Recommended ticket:
Cancellation policy: You can cancel any of these tickets up to 24 hours before the scheduled time and get a full refund.
Highlights of Topkapi Palace
Ottoman Imperial Palace
Shortly after his conquest of Constantinople (the historical name for Istanbul) in 1453, Mehmed the Conqueror started building the first level of Topkapi Palace. He lived here until his death in 1481. Ottoman Sultans stayed at Topkapi Palace in Istanbul until the 19th century. After a huge fire devastated the royal kitchens in 1574, Sultan Selim II entrusted Mimar Sinan with restoring the damaged sections of the palace. Topkapi Palace remained an Ottoman stronghold throughout this period.
About Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace Harem
The Topkapi Palace harem formed the residential quarters of the sultan’s family and was rigorously partitioned by gender. In the 16th century, Sultan Murat III had his apartments built here, eventually making it the sultan’s palace as well. The harem, like all the other structures of the palace, was constantly refurbished and expanded to meet growing demands. The outcome today is a complex plan with a variety of architectural influences.
Topkapi Place Harem
Arms and Weapons
The royal arms and weapons were kept in the External Treasury. The artifacts in the collections, like other objects at the Topkapi Palace Museum, were either made by workshops on the Sultan’s orders, acquired at markets, received as presents from visiting diplomats, or accumulated from conquered people.
About Topkapi Palace Museum
Imperial Treasury
Situated at the eastern end of the court, the Topkapi Palace Treasury includes priceless riches like silver, gold, emeralds, jades, rubies, pearls, and diamond-encrusted artifacts. The jewel-encrusted Sword of Süleyman the Magnificent and the remarkable Throne of Ahmed I, studded with mother-of-pearl and fashioned by Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, builder of the Blue Mosque, are also worth seeing.
European Porcelain Exhibit
The Topkapi Palace kitchens, which currently house the imperial porcelain exhibit, were located in the second courtyard. The porcelain collection demonstrates the Ottoman Empire’s global reach, with items acquired from Europe, as well as China and Japan. Celadon from China was treasured as dinnerware because it was thought that if the food served in it was poisoned, it would change color.
First Court
The first courtyard, also known as the First Court, is the palace’s largest and sole public space. Throughout the reign of the Ottoman Empire, the imperial gates were open to anyone unarmed. The wide expanse of the courtyard was perfect for celebrations and parades, and it was probably the busiest of the palace's squares.
Second Court
The Salutation Gate opens to the Second Court of Topkapi Palace. Known as the Divan Square, the Second Court used to be the administrative center. This area would only be open to the members of the court and other formal visitors. In the Domed Chamber, also known as Council Hall, members of the imperial council met many times a week to deliberate the empire's administrative concerns.
Third Court
The Felicity Gate, with its canopied entrance, opens to the Third Court, or the innermost square of Topkapi Palace, which accommodated the Sultan’s private home and the internal imperial school. The sultan, his family, his staff, and the rare authorized guest were the only ones who could enter. Visitors to the Sultan were limited to the Audience Chamber and were required to conform to a strict protocol.
Fourth Court
The third courtyard connects to the Fourth Court of Topkapi Palace. It is home to the Baghdad Pavilion, Circumcision Chamber, and Yerevan Pavilion, all of which are lavishly ornamented. The charming gilt-bronze Iftar Pergola, where sultans often broke their fasts if Ramadan occurred in the summertime, is one of the most distinctive features.
Plan your visit to Topkapi Palace
Timings
Location
Accessibility
Facilities
Visitor tips
Shop
Dining
Stay
Topkapi Palace Opening Hours:
- Winter period: From 1st October to 1st April
Open on: Wednesday to Monday
Museum, Harem, and Hagia Irene timings: 9 AM to 6 PM - Summer period: From 1st April to 1st October
Open on: Wednesday to Monday
Museum, Harem, and Hagia Irene timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Note: The ticket office closes at 5.30 PM
Closed Dates: Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays, 1 May, the first day of Ramadan, and the first day of Sacrifice.
Topkapi Palace Opening HoursAddress: Topkapi Palace is located at Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
Find on Map
Getting there:
- By Tram: T1
Nearest tram station: Gülhane istasyonu, Sultanahmet - By Bus: 28T, 30D, 46Ç, 47E, 99A, BN1, EM1
Nearest bus stop: Akbıyık - By Metro: M2
Nearest metro station: Vezneciler: - By Train: Marmaray (Atakoy–Pendik) line
Nearest train station: Marmaray Sirkeci İstasyonu - By Car: The distance between Istanbul Airport and Topkapi Palace is about 50 km
Nearest parking: Sports Car Park, Naz Otopark
Wheelchair Accessibility: Topkapi Palace is mostly accessible by wheelchair. The main entrance has ramps for easy access. Most of the doors have ramps to get over the marble door frames. All four courtyards can be accessed by wheelchair users. There are also wheelchair-accessible toilets in the palace.
Audio Guides: You can avail of audio guides at Topkapi Palace to explore it at your own pace. You may be charged extra for it if it isn’t already included in your ticket.
Toilets: There are toilets available throughout the palace.
- Secure your Topkapi Palace tickets well in advance if possible as this will make the entry procedure shorter.
- Arrive at Topkapi Palace at least 10 minutes early to avoid delays.
- Don't forget to carry ID proof for yourself and your children, especially if you have bought discounted tickets or are to get free entry.
- Topkapi Palace Harem tickets are available separately. Ensure that you book them as well if you want to explore the harem.
- Although there is no dress code as such, make sure that you wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
- Topkapi Palace is a massive landmark. Carry a copy of the map to make sure you don't lose your way as you explore it.
Topkapi Palace Museum Shop
On the right side of the Topkapi Palace entrance, you will find the Museum Shop which sells merchandise and memorabilia. You can buy postcards, replica attire, and the likes of these from the museum shop.
Address: Museum Shop, Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
While there are no eateries within Topkapi Palace, there are many restaurants and cafes nearby where you can enjoy a delectable meal.
Roof Mezze 360: The rooftop Roof Mezze 360 restaurant offers traditional Turkish food with a global twist.
Turgut Kebab Restaurant: If you are craving kebabs, Turgut Kebab Restaurant, which offers both dine-in and takeaway services, is the best place to go.
Fish Home Ahhir Kapi Restaurant: If you love seafood, head to Fish Home Ahhir Kapi Restaurant after you visit Topkapi Palace.
Şiva barbecue: Şiva barbecue is the best place to go for all the barbecue fans visiting the Topkapi Palace.
Budget: Star Holiday Hotel, Sultanahmet Hotel Han, Meddusa Hotel
Mid-range: Zeynep Sultan Hotel, The Million Stone Hotel, Bon Design & Suite
Luxury: White House Hotel Istanbul, Agora Life Hotel, Vogue Hotel Supreme Istanbul
Explore beyond Topkapi Palace
Hagia Sophia
A Byzantine cathedral turned mosque, the Hagia Sophia is an iconic landmark soaked in rich history as a melting pot of a myriad of cultures.
Explore Hagia Sophia
Blue Mosque
Located right opposite Hagia Sophia and built to outrival it, the Blue Mosque is famously known for its blue tiles.
Explore Blue Mosque
Bosphorus Cruises
Nestled right in the middle of Asia and Europe, the Bosphorus strait allows you to discover the beauty of Turkey from a completely different perspective.
Explore Bosphorus CruisesFrequently asked questions about Topkapi Palace tickets
How much is a ticket to Topkapi Palace?
Topkapi Palace tickets are available online, starting from €47
Can you buy Topkapi tickets in advance?
You can book your Topkapi Palace tickets online in advance. Purchasing your tickets online guarantees your entry to the landmark, especially during the peak season.
What do Topkapi Palace tickets include?
Standard Topkapi Palace ticket includes skip-the-line access to the palace complex. Depending on the experience you choose, your ticket may include an audio guide or a guided tour. If you want to visit the harem, you will have to purchase tickets that include access.
Are there any discounts available on Topkapi Palace tickets?
Yes, you can enjoy reduced prices on Topkapi Palace tickets, including skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and combo tickets.
Can I get skip-the-line tickets for Topkapi Palace?
Yes, you can buy Topkapi Palace tickets online with skip-the-line access and get fast-track entry to the palace.
Are audio guide tickets to Topkapi Palace available?
Yes, Topkapi Palace tours with audio guides are one of the best ways to explore Topkapi Palace and learn about its fascinating history.
How can I access the Topkapi Palace Harem?
You can explore Topkapi Palace Harem with a guided tour, since entry into the harem is only permitted along with a tour guide. Ensure you book tickets or tours that include access to the harem section if you want to visit it.
What is the cancellation policy for Topkapi Palace tickets?
Typically, Topkapi Palace tickets can be cancelled up to 24 hours before the scheduled time with a full refund. However, the cancellation policy may vary, so ensure that you check your tickets for the specific details.
What are the Topkapi Palace timings?
Topkapi Palace is open from 9 AM to 6 PM from Wednesday to Monday. It is closed on Tuesday.
How long does it take to complete a Topkapi Palace tour?
Topkapi Palace is a vast complex with many buildings, structures, and attractions within it. We recommend that you set aside at least 2-3 hours for your visit.
Is Topkapi Palace wheelchair accessible?
Topkapi Palace is mostly wheelchair accessible with ramps available at most locations. There are also wheelchair accessible toilets available at the venue.
