How to skip the long lines at Topkapi Palace

What to bring

• Carry your own earphones to access and enjoy the audio guide during your visit.

Additional information

• Note that you will be able to enter the Topkapi Palace only with a representative. Meet your host at the meeting point, who will then take you inside the palace.
• Be sure to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time.
• The audio guide app is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. You'll find instructions on how to use the audio guide app in your ticket voucher.
• Please note that there is limited internet at the museum/pier so download the audio guide app before your visit. The app does not require internet once it has been downloaded (ensure your GPS is activated).
• Enter the palace and stay as long as you want until its closing time of 5pm.

Inclusions #

• Skip-the-line entry into Topkapı Palace

• Access to Harem Museum

• Audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish

• 2-hour guided tour of Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern with entry tickets (as per option selected)

• English-speaking guide (as per option selected)

• 3-hour Bosphorus cruise (as per option selected)

• 4-course Turkish dinner (menu here) (as per option selected)

• Live entertainment, including Turkish folk dance, Whirling Dervish shows, sword performances, & a DJ (as per option selected)

• Unlimited soft drinks (as per option selected)

Explore Istanbul’s 'Big Three' — Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern — with a single flexible combo ticket.

• Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Skip-the-line entry and the chance to explore the calm of the Upper Gallery at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide.
• Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Gain fast-track entry and explore Istanbul’s underground chamber and the mysterious Medusa heads, with a multilingual audio guide.
• Everything you get at Topkapi Palace: Fast-track entry to the Harem’s and museum's ornate chambers, accompanied by your audio guide.
• Why choose this combo: With just a single ticket, explore three of Istanbul’s top landmarks, with no long waits, all located just minutes apart, while saving money.

Inclusions #

Basilica Cistern

• Skip-the-line entry

• Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, & Turkish

Hagia Sophia

• Skip-the-line entry

• Access to Hagia Sophia's Upper Gallery visiting area

• Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, & Spanish

Topkapi Palace

• Skip-the-line entry

• Access to Topkapi Palace Harem (Royal Apartments & Imperial Hall)

• Access to Topkapi Palace Museum (Treasury & Sacred Relics Room)

• Audio guide downloadable in English, Arabic, French, German, & Spanish

What to bring

Hagia Sophia

• Bring a scarf to cover your head when entering the mosque.

What's not allowed

Basilica Cistern

• Do not bring large bags, filming equipment, or tripods inside the Basilica Cistern.

Hagia Sophia

• Do not bring large bags, backpacks, food, or drinks inside.

Topkapi Palace

• Follow photography rules in the Harem, as some rooms restrict photos. Do not bring food or large bags into certain areas.

Accessibility

Basilica Cistern

• The Basilica Cistern is not fully wheelchair accessible. Some areas have uneven surfaces or narrow passageways.

Hagia Sophia

• Hagia Sophia is partially wheelchair accessible. Some areas have steps without ramps, which can be difficult for people using wheelchairs.

Topkapi Palace

• Topkapi Palace is partially wheelchair accessible. Some rooms, especially in the Harem, have limited access.

Additional information

Basilica Cistern

• Walk the full loop to see the Medusa heads at the far end. They are worth examining closely.
• Skip-the-line tickets help, but all visitors must pass standard security screening.
• Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a calmer experience.
• The lighting is low to preserve the atmosphere. Use night mode or steady your camera for better photos.

Hagia Sophia

• Prepare for security checks, which can take time during the summer months.
• Visit the Upper Gallery; the main floor is reserved for worshippers.
• Plan your visit around prayer times to avoid restricted areas.
• The mosque is closed to tourists on Fridays from 12pm to 2pm. Visit after 4pm to avoid long lines.

Topkapi Palace

• Explore the Harem to see the palace’s most intricate art and architecture.
• Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid long security lines.
• Skip-the-line tickets bypass ticket queues but not security checks, which usually take 30 to 40 minutes from June to August.
• View the Spoonmaker’s Diamond using the reflections on the wall, as the room is dimly lit.

Visit the Ottoman sultans' imperial residence of 400+ years, a UNESCO site, with an expert and an audio guide.

• Everything you get: Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace, a 1-hour guided tour led by an English-speaking guide, access to the Harem Section, an audio guide for iOS and Android available in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish.
• Why choose this: See more in less time with smooth entry and guided exploration, allowing you to focus on the highlights while gaining clear historical context and a deeper understanding of the vast Ottoman Empire through thoughtfully curated narration.
• Upgrades: Enhance your visit with a small-group historian-guided tour, offering richer historical context, expert insights, and a more personal, engaging experience of the palace.

Inclusions #

• Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace

• 1-hour guided tour

• English-speaking guide

• Access to Harem Section

• Audio guide for IOS & Android in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish

• Small-group historian-guided tour (as per option selected)

What to bring

• Download the audio guide application in advance to ensure smooth access, as mobile connectivity at the site may be unreliable.
• Bring your own earphones to enjoy the audio narration clearly and without interruptions.

Additional information

• Entry tickets allow priority access, but all visitors must still go through the mandatory security screening, which may take up to an hour during busy periods.
• The audio guide app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and is offered in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish.
• Children may be required to show valid passports at the museum entrance to confirm eligibility based on age.
• Admission with a digital pass alone is not permitted; entry to the palace is only possible when accompanied by the tour host.
• Wearing a headset during the guided tour is compulsory, so please carry a valid ID card, which will be temporarily held while the equipment is in use and returned after the tour concludes.

What to bring

Topkapi Palace

• Wear closed-toe, comfortable shoes as you'll be walking and exploring the palace's extensive grounds.
• Wired earphones are recommended for the audio guide, as Bluetooth may not work well in some parts of the palace.

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• Make sure to bring a valid ID card, as it is required for boarding the cruise, and foreign guests must present their passports and visa details upon arrival.
• Bring long-sleeved clothing or a shawl, as it can get chilly and windy during the cruise, especially in the evening.

What’s not allowed

Topkapi Palace

• Large bags, backpacks, food, and drinks are not permitted inside.
• Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited within the palace.
• Shoes must be removed before entering the Harem and some other rooms.

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• Smoking is prohibited during the cruise for the comfort of all guests.
• Pets are not allowed on board due to venue restrictions.
• Outside food or drinks are not allowed on the boat.

Accessibility

Topkapi Palace

• The palace is not fully wheelchair accessible due to uneven flooring and steps in certain areas.

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• This experience is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, with ramps available for easy boarding.
• If you have specific accessibility needs, please notify the staff in advance to ensure the best experience.

Additional information

Topkapi Palace

• While you can skip the ticket lines, please note that security checks are still required and may take up to 60 minutes during peak seasons (June to August).
• Meet your host at least 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time outside the palace.
• The audio guide app is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. You'll find instructions on how to use the audio guide app in your ticket voucher.
• Please note that there is limited internet at the palace, so download the audio guide app before your visit. The app does not require internet once it has been downloaded (ensure your GPS is activated).

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• Guests must bring an ID to board. Foreign guests are required to show their passports and visa details upon arrival.
• Dietary preferences such as vegetarian, pescatarian, and halal options can be accommodated upon request.
• Onboard languages include English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Dutch, and Russian, ensuring clear communication for all guests.
• The cruise is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather conditions, guests can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Inclusions #

Topkapi Palace

• Skip-the-line entry

• Access to Topkapi Palace Harem

• Access to Topkapi Palace Museum (Treasury & Sacred Relics Room)

• Digital audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish

• Note: A service representative will lead you to the entrance

Bosphorus cruise

• 3-hour Bosphorus cruise

• 4-course Turkish dinner (menu here)

• Live entertainment, including Turkish folk dance, Whirling Dervish shows, sword performances, and a DJ

• Unlimited soft drinks

• Private & reserved table

• Free Wi-Fi on board

Explore Istanbul’s top attractions with priority access and expert guidance; choose 1, 2, or all sites for a personalized, time-saving experience.

• Everything you get: Skip-the-line entry, 1-hour guided tour at each site, licensed English-speaking guide, and multilingual audio guide for all attractions.
• Why choose this: Tailor your Istanbul experience by selecting iconic landmarks that match your interests, bypassing the crowds, and enjoying a smooth journey through the city's rich history for a more enriching and time-efficient visit.
• Upgrades: Get exclusive access to areas like the Topkapi Palace Harem or the Hagia Sophia Upper Gallery, or extend your tour for a more in-depth, personalized experience.

Inclusions #

• Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, & Basilica Cistern (access 1, 2, 3, or all, as per option selected)

• 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, & Basilica Cistern (access 1, 2, 3, or all, as per option selected)

• Licensed expert English-speaking guide for all attractions

• Multilingual audio guide (iOS and Android) for all attractions (as per option selected)

• Access to the Hagia Sophia Upper Gallery (as per option selected)

• Access to the Topkapi Palace Harem (as per option selected)

• Access to Topkapi Palace Museum (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

• Hotel pick-up & drop-off

• Food & drinks

• Tips/gratuities (optional)

What to bring

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip, as some areas (especially in the Basilica Cistern) may be wet or slippery.
• Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered; women should bring a scarf or shawl to cover their heads at Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
• Carry a small bag to hold your shoes when entering the Blue Mosque, as shoes must be removed before entry.
• Bring wired earphones or headphones for the audio guide app, as Bluetooth may not work underground.
• Bring cash for small purchases, such as scarves or body covers at mosque entrances, and for nearby cafés or souvenirs.
• Consider bringing a light jacket or sweater, as the Basilica Cistern remains cool and damp even in summer (June to August).

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, backpacks, food, and drinks are not permitted inside any of the sites.
• Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed inside the landmarks.
• Shoes must be removed before entering the Blue Mosque and are not allowed indoors.
• Modest attire is required at Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque; clothing that exposes shoulders or knees is not permitted.
• Some areas of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque may be closed to visitors during prayer times.

Accessibility

• The tour is not fully wheelchair accessible. Most sites have uneven flooring, steps, or cobblestone paths that make independent access challenging or unsafe for wheelchair users.

Additional information

• All visitors must pass through mandatory security checks at each site, even with skip-the-line tickets. Wait times can be up to 60 minutes during peak hours (June to August).
• Scarves and body covers are available for purchase at the entrance of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia for approximately €1 to €3, if needed.
• Hagia Sophia is closed to tourists on Fridays from 12pm to 2:30pm for Friday prayer; plan your visit accordingly.
• The ground floor of Hagia Sophia is reserved for prayers, while the Upper Gallery is open to visitors (when accessible).

Skip past ticket lines and dive deep into Istanbul’s past with hassle-free entry and audio-guided tours of Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern.

• Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Descend into the ancient underground water reservoir, where atmospheric lighting reveals towering columns, mysterious Medusa heads, and echoes of a bygone Byzantine era.
• Everything you get at Topkapi Palace: Step inside the sprawling former palace of Ottoman sultans, wander lush courtyards, and marvel at priceless artifacts like the Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond.
• Why choose this: Avoid waiting in long queues and take your time exploring two of Istanbul’s most famous sites, with easy entry and audio guides that explain everything as you go.

Inclusions #

Basilica Cistern

• Skip-the-line entry

• Audio guide in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian

• Free time to explore

Topkapi Palace

• Skip-the-line entry

• Skip-the-line entry to Harem Museum

• Audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish

• Free time to explore

Basilica Cistern

• Tip: The underground cistern is dim and moist, so bring a lightweight cardigan to stay warm.
• Skip-the-line tickets help you avoid long queues, but security screening is still mandatory for all visitors.
• For fewer crowds and a more peaceful visit, go early in the morning or later in the evening.
• The lighting inside is low for ambience; switch on night mode or steady your phone for clearer shots.
• Some parts of the floor are slick. Sturdy footwear with grip will help you walk safely.

Topkapi Palace

• Tip: Some of the most beautiful tilework in the palace is housed inside the Harem. Make sure to stop by.
• The skip-the-line tickets let you bypass ticketing lines. Security checks are mandatory and take about 30 to 40 minutes between June and August.
• Security lines can stretch long in the morning. Visit in the late afternoon hours or as soon as it opens for a smoother entry.
• Photography is not allowed in many of the Harem rooms and the Treasury. Check the signs before taking pictures.
• The Spoonmaker’s Diamond, one of the palace’s highlights, is often behind glass in a dim room. Look at the reflection on the wall to view it clearly.

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

What to bring

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many included attractions involve uneven paths, stairs, or long distances.
• Modest attire is a must for religious landmarks. Bring a scarf or shawl if you're visiting the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque.

What's not allowed

• Flash photography, food, and large bags are not allowed inside most museums and historic sites.
• Revealing clothing is not permitted in mosques; shoulders and knees must be covered for entry.

Accessibility

• Most attractions offer partial wheelchair access, but areas like the Upper Gallery at Hagia Sophia and the Harem at Topkapi Palace require you to climb up a flight of stairs.

Additional information

• The pass guarantees 7 essentials, including a public transport card, guided Blue Mosque tour, 90-min Bosphorus cruise, and audio guides.
• Add on landmarks and experiences as per the pass you pick. Get the list of included and optional attractions here.
• All activities are open-entry with no reservations required; only the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise needs to be booked in advance.
• The pass is valid for 7 consecutive days from your selected start date.
• You’re free to visit multiple attractions each day, but each attraction can only be accessed once with your pass.
• Skip-the-line access is included, but security checks still apply at all venues.
• The multilingual audio guides are available offline, so you don't have to rely on a spotty signal.
• The included transport card can be used across trams, ferries, buses, and metros—no need to buy separate tickets, but make sure to validate your card at necessary stops.
• The digital guidebook includes curated tips and navigation shortcuts between included attractions, helping you plan smarter and save time.
• Access to the main prayer hall on the ground floor of the Hagia Sophia is restricted for tourists. You can only visit the upper floor visiting area.
• The Asian side walking tour is one of the best ways to see a non-touristy, authentic side of Istanbul. It's slower-paced and culturally rich.
• The upper deck of hop-on-hop-off buses offers the best views across the Bosphorus Bridge.
• Choose traditional hammams for a more authentic experience.
• Opt for evening Whirling Dervish shows for a quieter, more atmospheric setting, and get introduced to the Sufi legacy of Istanbul.
• The window seats fill up fast on cruises; arrive early to grab the best spots.

Inclusions #

• Included with the MegaPass

  • Blue Mosque guided tour

  • Bosphorus sightseeing cruise

  • 5-ride Istanbul transportation card

  • Multilingual audio guides for all attractions

  • Digital guidebook

  • City, tram, and metro map

• Additional inclusions based on the pass option selected

  • Landmarks & Palaces: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, & Dolmabahce Palace (choose 2/4/10 depending on your pass tier)

  • Sightseeing tours: Asian side walking tour, hop-on hop-off bus tour, Bosphorus sunset yacht cruise with snacks (based on your pass tier)

  • Cultural experiences: Turkish bath or hammam experience, Whirling Dervish ceremony, & Bosphorus dinner cruise (based on your pass tier)

• Click [here] for full details

Inclusions #

• Self-guided tour of Topkapi Palace

• Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace

• Audio guide in English, German, Russian, Turkish, Spanish, Arabic, Italian, Chinese, French, and Polish

• Access to the Harem Museum

• Complimentary 1 GB eSIM mobile internet

Skip long ticket lines and explore both Topkapi Palace and Hagia Irene in one seamless, well-planned visit.

• Everything you get: Priority entry to the Topkapi Palace, access to the Topkapi Palace Harem, entry to Hagia Irene Museum, and an audio guide covering both sites.
• Why choose this: Save time and explore Istanbul’s imperial heart more efficiently by skipping long queues and experiencing two landmark sites in one smooth visit, with the freedom to learn and explore at your own pace.

Inclusions #

• Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace

• Entry to Topkapi Palace Harem

• Entry to Hagia Irene Museum

• Audio guide for both sites

Exclusions #

• Live guide

What to bring

• Bring a charged smartphone and headphones to use the audio guide.
• Wear respectful attire when visiting Hagia Sophia. Women are advised to avoid knee-length shorts, skirts, or attire revealing shoulders or chests, and are encouraged to partially cover their hair with a scarf. Men should avoid knee-length shorts or attire exposing their shoulders.
• Carry a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking, as it may be requested at the entrance.

What’s not allowed

• Re-entry is not allowed after you leave the venue.
• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the venues.
• Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited on the premises.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

• This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Additional information

• There is a mandatory security check at all venues, which cannot be skipped. During peak times, especially between June and August, security queues may take up to an hour.
• Your ticket includes priority access to the Topkapi Palace but does not allow you to skip security lines.
• Please meet your host at the designated meeting point (Chimney Bistro) for entry to Topkapi Palace.
• This ticket grants access to the visiting area and Upper Gallery of Hagia Sophia, not the prayer area downstairs.
• Please note that the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
• Clothing and scarves can be purchased at the entrance to Hagia Sophia if needed.