Book Topkapi Palace Tickets | Skip-the-line Entry

Tickets

4.1(0)

Topkapi Palace & Harem Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

Explore Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman sultans' imperial home for 400+ years, and a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in Turkish history and culture.
Enter the palace led by a representative, and explore the opulent interiors at your own pace, assisted by an audio guide available in 5 languages.
See the First Courtyard that once consisted of a hospital, a bakery, an arsenal, the mint, storage places, and some dormitories.
The Second Courtyard was the seat of the Divan and also hosted the privy stables and the kitchens.
Visit the kitchen to see a stunning display of the Chinese porcelain collection, which is said to be the third most valuable in the world.
Upgrade your ticket to include a guided tour of Topkapı Palace and Basilica Cistern to gain in-depth insights from an expert guide.

Explore Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman sultans' imperial home for 400+ years, and a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in Turkish history and culture.
Enter the palace led by a representative, and explore the opulent interiors at your own pace, assisted by an audio guide available in 5 languages.
See the First Courtyard that once consisted of a hospital, a bakery, an arsenal, the mint, storage places, and some dormitories.
The Second Courtyard was the seat of the Divan and also hosted the privy stables and the kitchens.
Visit the kitchen to see a stunning display of the Chinese porcelain collection, which is said to be the third most valuable in the world.
Upgrade your ticket to include a guided tour of Topkapı Palace and Basilica Cistern to gain in-depth insights from an expert guide.

Inclusions

Skip-the-line entry into Topkapı Palace
Access to Harem Museum
Audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.
The services of a representative who will lead you to the entrance
2-hour guided tour of Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern with entry tickets (optional)
English-speaking guide (optional)

Note that you will be able to enter the Topkapi Palace only with a representative. Meet your guide at the meeting point, who will then take you inside the palace.
Please 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.
There is limited internet at the museum/pier so download the app before your visit. The app does not require internet once it has been downloaded (ensure your GPS is activated).
Please bring your headphones to listen to the audio guide.
Enter the palace and stay as long as you want until its closing time of 5pm.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Guided tour

Combos

4.1(0)

Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

Explore Istanbul’s Big Three — Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & the Basilica Cistern — with one flexible, skip-the-line combo ticket.

Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Explore the mosaics, domes, and quiet of the Upper Gallery at Hagia Sophia with ease. The included audio guide takes you through it all—from emperor coronations to the rich history of the place.

Everything you get at Topkapi Palace: Skip long wait lines and enter the Harem's ornate chambers at the Topkapi Palace. Catch the jewel-covered Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond, all with your personal audio storyteller in tow.

Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Descend under Istanbul's grounds and marvel at ancient columns, echoing vaults, and Medusa’s icy stares. Take in this experience with an added bonus of skipping long ticket lines and a 7+ language audio guide.

Why choose this combo: 1 ticket, no transfers, no commute, no stress. All three landmarks are just minutes apart. Perfect combo if you want to save money and enjoy quick skip-the-line access at every stop.

Explore Istanbul’s Big Three — Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & the Basilica Cistern — with one flexible, skip-the-line combo ticket.

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

Basilica Cistern

Tip: Follow the full loop before heading out—the Medusa heads are tucked away at the far end and worth a close look from every angle.
Skip-the-line tickets are very helpful, but all visitors must go through standard security screening.
For a more peaceful visit, go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s less crowded. The space feels a lot more serene then!
The lighting is kept low to preserve the atmosphere. Switch to night mode or steady your phone to capture clearer photos.
Make sure you wear shoes with good grip to avoid slipping in some areas.

Hagia Sophia

Tip: Security checks are a must at the venue. During summer months, checks can take extra time with queues stretching into the courtyard.
Only the Upper Gallery area is open to visitors, while the main floor is reserved for worshippers.
You cannot enter the mosque during prayer times, so plan your visit around the daily schedule.
The Hagia Sophia is closed to tourists on Fridays from noon to mid-afternoon for prayer.
Modest dress is mandatory for all, so make sure you wear clothes that cover your head, shoulders and knees. Headscarves are available at the entrance for women.

Topkapi Palace

Tip: Don’t miss the Harem—it holds the palace’s most intricate art and architecture.
Visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon hours to avoid long security lines.
Skip-the-line tickets bypass ticket queues but not security checks. Checks normally take 30–40 minutes from June to August.
Some rooms in the Harem do not allow photography, so keep an eye out for signs.
The Spoonmaker’s Diamond is dimly lit. Pro tip: catch the reflections on the wall to view it clearly.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Audio guide

Combos

4.1(0)

Combo (Save 8%): Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

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.

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

Skip-the-line entry
Free time to explore more
English-speaking tour guide

Topkapi Palace

Skip-the-line ticket
Free time to explore more
Topkapi Palace audio guide app
Entry to Harem

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.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Audio guide

Tickets

3.1(0)

Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

Inclusions

Free entrance tickets to Hagia Sophia
Skip the line entry tickets to Topkapi Palace (optional)
Guided tour
Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace audio guide (English, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, Turkish)

Exclusions

Harem section in Topkapi Palace
- Headsets
- Hotel transfers
- Meal inclusions

Inclusions

Free entrance tickets to Hagia Sophia
Skip the line entry tickets to Topkapi Palace (optional)
Guided tour
Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace audio guide (English, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, Turkish)

Exclusions

Harem section in Topkapi Palace
- Headsets
- Hotel transfers
- Meal inclusions

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

2 hr.

Audio guide

Guided tour

Guided Tours

4.4(0)

Topkapi Palace & Harem Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

Visit the imperial residence of Ottoman sultans, a landmark that served as their home for over 400 years. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a captivating journey into Turkish history and culture.
With skip-the-line entry, follow your expert guide to learn about the fascinating history of the palace built as the Ottomans conquered Istanbul and all that you see around you.
Marvel at the Ottoman Army's weapons, beautiful fabrics, jewels, and art, and discover a collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain in the palace kitchen.
The Holy Relics Chamber includes items associated with legendary historical figures such as Prophet Muhammad, Moses, and David.
You can also visit the Harem section, once the abode of the Sultan and his family, decorated with beautiful Kutahya and Iznik tiles.

Visit the imperial residence of Ottoman sultans, a landmark that served as their home for over 400 years. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a captivating journey into Turkish history and culture.
With skip-the-line entry, follow your expert guide to learn about the fascinating history of the palace built as the Ottomans conquered Istanbul and all that you see around you.
Marvel at the Ottoman Army's weapons, beautiful fabrics, jewels, and art, and discover a collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain in the palace kitchen.
The Holy Relics Chamber includes items associated with legendary historical figures such as Prophet Muhammad, Moses, and David.
You can also visit the Harem section, once the abode of the Sultan and his family, decorated with beautiful Kutahya and Iznik tiles.

Inclusions

1-hour guided tour
English-speaking guide
Skip-the-ticket-line entry to Topkapi Palace
Access to Harem Section
Audio guide for IOS & Android is available in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish. Instructions to download will be shared with your ticket. Do bring your own headphones.

Tip: Monday mornings and the winter are the best times to experience the beauty of the palace in peace as it is the least crowded.
Audio App for IOS and Android is available in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish.
Children will be asked to present their valid passports at the entrance of the museums to validate their age.
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.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

City Cards

4.2(0)

Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions

Build your perfect Istanbul adventure by picking 2 to 9 attractions, from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to cultural gems like a hammam or dervish show.

Everything you get: Access to top landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace (choose 2-4 based on your pass), guided tours including the Asian side walking tour and hop-on hop-off bus, cultural experiences like a Turkish bath or Dervish ceremony, a Blue Mosque tour, Bosphorus dinner cruise, a 5-ride transportation card, multilingual audio guides for all attractions, a digital guidebook, and a city map to navigate it all.
Why choose this: Enjoy seamless access with one easy pass that covers guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, and a 5-ride public transport card for getting around the city. Choose the Premium Pass to visit 4 attractions or go all in with the Deluxe Pass to unlock 9 of the city’s best, with all tickets delivered straight to your inbox.

Build your perfect Istanbul adventure by picking 2 to 9 attractions, from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to cultural gems like a hammam or dervish show.

Everything you get: Access to top landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace (choose 2-4 based on your pass), guided tours including the Asian side walking tour and hop-on hop-off bus, cultural experiences like a Turkish bath or Dervish ceremony, a Blue Mosque tour, Bosphorus dinner cruise, a 5-ride transportation card, multilingual audio guides for all attractions, a digital guidebook, and a city map to navigate it all.
Why choose this: Enjoy seamless access with one easy pass that covers guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, and a 5-ride public transport card for getting around the city. Choose the Premium Pass to visit 4 attractions or go all in with the Deluxe Pass to unlock 9 of the city’s best, with all tickets delivered straight to your inbox.

Inclusions

Landmarks & Palaces: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, & Dolmabahce Palace (choose 2/4/9 depending on your pass tier)
Guided tours: Asian side walking tour & hop-on hop-off bus tour (based on your pass tier)
Cultural experiences: Turkish bath or hammam experience & Dervish ceremony (based on your pass tier)
Blue Mosque guided tour
Bosphorus dinner cruise
5-ride Istanbul transportation card
Multilingual audio guides for all attractions
Digital guidebook
City, tram, and metro map

Get the list of included attractions here.
All activities are open-entry with no reservations required; only the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise needs to be booked in advance.
Your pass is valid for 7 consecutive days starting from the first time you use it.
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 Dervish sessions for a quieter, more atmospheric setting, and sit closer to the front for a better view of the whirling ritual.
The window seats fill up fast on cruises; arrive early to grab the best spots.

Your selected attraction tickets will be sent via email. If you’ve chosen the Deluxe Pass, you’ll receive tickets for all included experiences.
Show the PDF tickets on your phone, or print a physical copy if you prefer.
You can edit your chosen list of attractions anytime, and cancel your pass free of charge up to one day before your chosen start date.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Guided tour

Topkapi Palace | An Ottoman jewel

Topkapi Palace is a remarkable historical treasure in the heart of Istanbul. This iconic palace, one of the biggest in the world, is known for its deep Ottoman roots. Built by Mehmed the Conqueror in the mid-15th century, it served as the primary royal residence and administrative center for the Ottoman Sultans for more than four centuries. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing more than 3 million visitors every year. Read on to learn more about Topkapi Palace tickets, opening hours, location, and other details to help you plan your visit.

Things to know before booking Topkapi Palace tickets

All Topkapi Palace tickets include skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass the long ticketing lines and enjoy direct entry to the palace interiors.

The Topkapi Palace has a separate harem section, which once served as the residence of the sultan's mother, wives, concubines, and children. All Topkapi Palace tickets include access to this section of the palace.

The Topkapi Palace and Harem guided tour is perfect for those looking to dive deep into the history, architecture, and culture of the Ottoman Empire. An expert, English-speaking guide will acquaint you with the myths, and legends surrounding the palace, as you walk through its opulent chambers and courtyards.

If you prefer to explore independently, the Topkapi Palace skip-the-line tickets are a great choice. With access to a multilingual audio guide in over 10 languages, you can explore the palace interiors at your own pace.

Short on time? The Istanbul in a day package is a fantastic way to hit all the highlights in one go. Explore Old Town sites like Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, enjoy a delicious local lunch, and relax with a scenic yacht cruise.

For those planning a longer stay in the city, consider booking the Istanbul Mega Pass. Choose between 2, 4, or 9 attractions, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern. Add unique experiences like a Bosphorus dinner cruise, a Blue Mosque guided tour, or even a Whirling Dervish Show. To top it off, the pass includes a 5-ride transportation card, making it even easier to get around and soak up everything the city has to offer.

The Topkapi Palace is partly wheelchair accessible. The main entrance on the southwest section of the palace is equipped with ramps to ensure easy access. However, there are cobblestone sections in the four courtyards and small marble door frames outside the exhibition rooms. For a smoother experience, we recommend visiting with a companion or caregiver to help navigate these areas.

Frequently asked questions about Topkapi Palace tickets

Can I skip the lines at Topkapi Palace?

Yes, book Topkapi Palace and Harem skip-the-line tickets to bypass long ticketing lines and directly access the palace interiors. The tickets also include a multilingual audio guide, available in over 10 languages for your convenience.

Do I need a separate ticket for the Harem Museum?

You don’t have to purchase separate tickets to enter the Topkapi Palace Harem Museum. All our Topkapi Palace tickets offer access to the Harem.

How much do Topkapi Palace entrance tickets cost?

The Topkapi Palace skip-the-line tickets start from $74.10. If you want an expert guide to accompany you on your tour, opt for the guided tours starting from €59.

Are guided tours available for Topkapi Palace?

Yes, you can book Topkapi Palace and Harem guided tours for an in-depth experience. The tour includes an expert professional, who takes you through the inner rooms and courtyards, and educates you about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the palace.

Which combo ticket should I choose?

When booking tickets to visit the Topkapi Palace, there are several combo options you can choose from. The Istanbul Super Combo offers exceptional value with skip-the-line access to multiple top attractions, including the Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Harem Museum, and more. If you are looking to see Istanbul from a fresh perspective, opt for the Istanbul in-a-day combo ticket. It offers a walk-through around the Old Town sites and a scenic yacht cruise with lunch.

What is included in the 3-day Museum Pass?

The 3-day Museum Pass allows you to explore many of the city’s iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern. You can also top it up with a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise and avail yourself of an English-speaking tour guide.

Which ticket is best for a short stay in Istanbul?

If you are planning to spend a week or more in Istanbul, choose the Istanbul Megapass. It offers ultimate flexibility and access to a range of attractions. Depending on your choice, you can visit 2, 4, or 9 attractions, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace, and more. The pass even includes a 5-ride transportation card, making it easy for you to hop between attractions and cover more sights in a day.