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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.
- Less queuing, more viewing! Enjoy the convenience of the skip-the-line entry and the company of an expert guide.
- Your expert guide will narrate the fascinating history of the palace built as the Ottomans conquered Istanbul and all that you see around you.
- Marvel at the weapons of the Ottoman Army, the beautiful fabrics, jewels, and art, and in the Palace kitchen, discover a collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain.
- 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.
- Less queuing, more viewing! Enjoy the convenience of the skip-the-line entry and the company of an expert guide.
- Your expert guide will narrate the fascinating history of the palace built as the Ottomans conquered Istanbul and all that you see around you.
- Marvel at the weapons of the Ottoman Army, the beautiful fabrics, jewels, and art, and in the Palace kitchen, discover a collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain.
- 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 App for IOS & Android in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish
- 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.
Combos
Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
from €122.40
€116.28
5% 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 that is 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 that is 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-ticket-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-ticket-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-ticket-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.
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: Guided Tour of Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern with Skip-the-Line Tickets
- With this combo ticket, save money as you get skip-the-line access to guided tours of the Basilica Cistern and the Topkapi Palace.
- On the 30-minute Basilica Cistern guided tour, discover hundreds of ancient cisterns hidden beneath Istanbul's Sunken Palace.
- Explore with your guide and see the 336 well-preserved Byzantine columns and the two Medusa heads.
- Visit the Topkapi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th century, and learn more about its history from your tour guide.
- Enjoy entry to the Harem, a place that served not only as a private living space for the sultan's wives, and female relatives but also as a center of political and social dynamics.
- With this combo ticket, save money as you get skip-the-line access to guided tours of the Basilica Cistern and the Topkapi Palace.
- On the 30-minute Basilica Cistern guided tour, discover hundreds of ancient cisterns hidden beneath Istanbul's Sunken Palace.
- Explore with your guide and see the 336 well-preserved Byzantine columns and the two Medusa heads.
- Visit the Topkapi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th century, and learn more about its history from your tour guide.
- Enjoy entry to the Harem, a place that served not only as a private living space for the sultan's wives, and female relatives but also as a center of political and social dynamics.
Inclusions
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry
- Free time to explore more
- 30-minute guided tour
- English-speaking tour guide
Topkapi Palace
- Skip-the-line entry
- Free time to explore more
- 60-minute guided tour
- English-speaking tour guide
- Topkapi Palace audio guide app
- Entry to Harem
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: When exploring the underground cistern, you may find yourself feeling a chill due to its dim and moist atmosphere. Bring along a lightweight cardigan for extra warmth.
Topkapi Palace
- Tip: During your free time at the palace, use the audio app to the fullest to get an insight into its intriguing past.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Want to save time and enjoy much flexibility? The Istanbul MegaPass is the one for you! Access multiple attractions with classic, premium, or deluxe passes, valid for 7 days!
- With your pass, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions—saving up to 37%!
- A Classic MegaPass allows you to choose 2 top attractions–Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern, and activities like Turkish Hamam. Find the full list here
- For a more elevated experience choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to explore more attractions and more flexibility at a great deal!
- Want to save time and enjoy much flexibility? The Istanbul MegaPass is the one for you! Access multiple attractions with classic, premium, or deluxe passes, valid for 7 days!
- With your pass, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions—saving up to 37%!
- A Classic MegaPass allows you to choose 2 top attractions–Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern, and activities like Turkish Hamam. Find the full list here
- For a more elevated experience choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to explore more attractions and more flexibility at a great deal!
Inclusions
- Choice of 2/4/9 of Istanbul's top attractions
- Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace
- Cruises: Bosphorus cruise, Dinner cruise on Bosphorus with Turkish drinks and food
- Tours: Asian side walking tour, Blue Mosque tour,
- Access to hop on hop off bus tour
- Activities: Dervish Ceremony, Turkish bath & Hamam
- 5-ride transportation card
- Digital guide book
- City, tram & metro map
- There is no reservation needed for any activity except the Bosphorus Dinner cruise.
- Each pass is valid for 7 consecutive days including the first day of use.
- You can visit multiple attractions in a day but you can only visit each attraction once with this pass.
- You do have skip-the-line access but you will still need to go through security.
- You’ll receive an email shortly afterward with your tickets after you've picked a pass of your choice.
- If you're someone who likes a physical pass, you can print the PDF or show the PDF at the attraction so they scan your QR ticket.
- For the all-inclusive pass, you will also receive all your tickets.
- You can change the chosen attractions as many times as you want, or you can cancel the pass free of charge up to 1 day before the service date.
- 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.
