Palace Tickets and Tours in Istanbul

When you think of what to see and do in Istanbul, Ottoman palaces top the list. These architectural gems reflect the grandeur of a city that, over the centuries, has been the epicentre of mighty empires.

From the historic Topkapi Palace to the luxurious Dolmabahçe, the palaces of ancient Constantinople transport you back to the era of the sultans, with intriguing stories and breathtaking views. Whether you have several days or just a weekend, exploring these monuments is one of the best ways to connect with the essence of the city and here are their locations and opening hours so you can plan your palace tour.

Topkapi Palace is, without a doubt, one of the must-see destinations for those looking to immerse themselves in Ottoman history. This World Heritage Site, which for more than 400 years was the official residence of the sultans, stands out not only for its imposing architecture, but also for the treasures it houses inside.

From the harem to the weapons rooms and the imperial treasury, every corner offers a window into the palatial life of the Ottoman Empire. If you're looking for a way to visit the Topkapi Palace, it's easy - Topkapi's prime location, overlooking the Golden Horn, makes it one of the top Bosphorus tours, adding to its majesty.

You can buy your ticket at the Ottoman Versailles ticket office, or if you prefer to secure your place on the day's capacity, you can also book your guided tour of the Topkapi Palace You will have access to its courtyards, its impressive collection of sacred relics, gardens and the harem that Suleiman the Magnificent ordered to be created. Plus, if you choose this option, your guide will share live commentary so you won't miss important details that only an expert can know.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 9.00am to 5.00pm (closed Tuesdays).
• Address: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih.

Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Dolmabahçe Palace, an architectural gem that reflects the transition of the Ottoman Empire to the West. This palace, considered one of the 10 most beautiful palaces in the world, was built in the 19th century on the orders of Sultan Abdül Mecid I, who wanted a residence to rival European palaces.

Its interior will take your breath away: huge chandeliers, gilded ceilings, exquisite furnishings and a décor that combines Ottoman and European elements, as designed by architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan. Don't miss the magnificent throne room, where the proclamation ceremony of the Republic of Turkey took place under the illumination of an impressive Bohemian crystal chandelier, one of the largest in the world.

You can visit this palace with a single ticket or by booking a guided tour of Dolmabahçe Palace to explore the highlights of the 15,000 square metre Dolmabahçe Palace, which is housed in the residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Details of interest

• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5:30pm (closed Mondays).
• Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş.

Surrounded by an extensive park, Yildiz Palace, built in the late 19th century, is an Ottoman landmark steeped in history and architectural beauty. It was erected under Sultan Abdulhamid II, the penultimate of the Ottoman sultans, who used it as his main residence.

Its importance lies not only in its opulence and architectural complexity in an area of 500,000 m2, but also in the surrounding gardens, which were designed as an escape from court life. This imposing complex includes among its landmarks the Sale Pavilion, where important guests were received and official events were held. Breathtaking views of the Bosphorus can also be captured from the neoclassical Malta Pavilion, which was used for exhibitions and special events.

Another highlight is the gardens, or Yildiz Park, an oasis of tranquillity and tasteful decoration. And don't forget the bridge that connects the palaces to the Çırağan Palace, another engineering feat that, from its marble structure to the statues and fountains around it, leaves visitors in awe. Entry to these palaces is included when you purchase your Istanbul E-pass.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Address: Yıldız, Beşiktaş, Istanbul. You can get there by metro, there is a station with the same name as the palace from where you walk for about 5 minutes before you see the main entrance.

The Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the Asian side of Atatürk's historic land, in the Eyüp district, one of Istanbul's must-see neighbourhoods, was used as a summer residence for the sultans. The palace, which combines Ottoman and neo-baroque styles, is renowned for its impressive architecture and luxurious interiors, which achieve a unique harmony of opulence and simplicity, earning it a top spot on Travel+Leisure's list of the best places for a 48-hour getaway in Istanbul.

The Beylerbeyi Palace, built on the orders of Sultan Abdülaziz around 1860, was also the place where important international guests stayed in its 24 sober rooms. As you walk through the rooms, you can admire the opulence of the décor, with period furniture, crystal chandeliers and Iznik tiles.

With your ticket, by the way, also included in the city's best tourist passes, you also gain access to its carefully landscaped gardens, which offer an oasis of peace with fountains and panoramic views of the strait. In addition, you will have the opportunity to see personal belongings of the sultans, such as robes and jewellery, which will transport you back to the daily life of the Ottoman court.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (closed on Mondays).
• Address: Beylerbeyi, 34676 Üsküdar.

The Çırağan Palace, whose construction in 1863 was ordered by Sultan Abdulaziz, sought a residence at the height of the Ottoman monarchy, in the iconic location of the Bosphorus Strait. The palace is remarkable not only for its architectural splendour, which combines classical Ottoman and neo-baroque elements, but also for its history of transformations, the last of which was a fire in 1910.

The palace was left in ruins until it was restored in the 1990s to become a luxurious five-star hotel, allowing today to enjoy "a royal stay on the shores of the Bosphorus ".

Its majestic halls and rooms have been carefully restored to preserve the Ottoman spirit, while offering modern comforts. From its gardens, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and spectacular terraces. Also, for those interested in pampering their bodies in one of Istanbul's best Turkish baths, they can book a hammam experience here at the Ciragan Palace hammam, an Istanbul icon that combines a historic and sophisticated ambience with luxurious service.

Carla's Tip

The name "Çırağan" is intimately linked to the rich Ottoman history. It derives from the Persian word "cerag", meaning torch, and alludes to the famous festivals that were held in this area, where the gardens were illuminated with torches and adorned with tulips.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: The palace operates as a hotel and is open 24 hours a day so guests can wander around at their leisure, however, private tours of Istanbul can also be booked to stop at the palace, usually in the mornings.
• Address: Çırağan Caddesi, 32, Beşiktaş.

Tucked away amidst the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, the Ihlamur Palace offers an intimate retreat where the sultans would retreat to rest. Built of carved stone by renowned architect Nigogos Balyan during the reign of Sultan Abdulmecit, this complex includes two pavilions: the more ornate Merasim Pavilion and the more simply designed Maiyet Pavilion. Both reflect a charming fusion of European and Ottoman styles, giving it a unique character within the city.

The palace is particularly noted for its beautiful gardens, perfect for a quiet afternoon and, nowadays, for enjoying an authentic Turkish breakfast at an affordable price. For this reason, some of Istanbul' s best food tours include a stop here, especially in the mornings or mid-afternoon. At these times, the gardens offer a haven of peace and beauty, ideal for unwinding from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can savour local dishes accompanied by aromatic Turkish coffee or the traditional drink par excellence, tea, while enjoying the natural surroundings.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (closed on Mondays).
• Address: Teşvikiye, 34365 Şişli.

The Adile Sultan Pavilion, located on Üsküdar Hill, was originally built in 1858 by architect Sarkis Balyan as a gift to Princess Adile Sultan, sister of Sultan Abdulmecid. However, due to damage over time, the building was restored by Sultan Abdulaziz, who gave it its present appearance. This pavilion is not only an architectural jewel in neoclassical style, but also a vibrant cultural centre where conferences, weddings and special events are organised.

The pavilion houses the impressive Oval Hall, which seats about 500 people, a meeting room for 200 guests, and 17 seminar rooms that can accommodate between 30 and 50 people each. In addition, there is a large cocktail area of 1300 m² and a beautiful garden with a capacity of 1,000 people, from where exceptional panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the city of Istanbul can be enjoyed.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Address: Kandilli, 34684 Üsküdar.

Also known as the**"Palace of Mirrors**", the Aynalikavak Palace is an Ottoman jewel built in the early 17th century during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I.

This palace, located near the Golden Horn, served as a retreat for Ottoman sultans who enjoyed sailing, music, literature and art in general as a passion. Over the years, the building has been renovated several times, most notably the restoration by Mahmud II in the 19th century, who added European touches to its interior design.

The palace is famous for its ornate mirrors and decoration that blends Eastern and Western elements, giving it a unique charm. Away from the crowds, Aynalikavak Palace offers an intimate experience and allows you to enjoy a calm atmosphere in a fascinating historical setting.

Details of interest

• Opening hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (closed on Mondays).
• Address: Aynalıkavak, Hasköy, Beyoğlu.

Located opposite the famous Blue Mosque, the İbrahim Pasha Palace is an architectural marvel dating back to the 16th century, impossible to miss.

Built for Süleyman the Magnificent, the Grand Vizier İbrahim Paşa, this palace has been transformed into the M useum of Turkish and Islamic Art, one of Istanbul's finest museums. Its collections include ancient carpets, calligraphic manuscripts and ceramics spanning centuries of Islamic history. Strolling through its halls is a fascinating experience that allows you not only to admire Ottoman architecture, but also to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the Islamic world.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: 9:00 to 16:30 (closed on Mondays).
• Address: Binbirdirek, Sultanahmet, Meydanı Cd No 12 , 34122 Fatih.

Tekfur Palace, also known as the Porphyrogenitus Palace, is one of the last Byzantine palaces still standing in Istanbul and the only survivor of the ancient Blaherne complex. Built in the 13th century during the Byzantine Empire, presumably on the orders of the emperor's son, Prince Constantine "Porphyrogenitus", it offers a unique glimpse of the city before the Ottoman era and is a symbol of the palace architecture of the time.

After a meticulous restoration process, the palace was reopened as a museum, where it now houses an important collection of medieval ceramics, tiles and artefacts that highlight Byzantine splendour. Among its most valuable treasures are examples of the sultans' porcelain, Iznik, which was used to decorate mosques and palaces of the period.

Also, inside the palace you can tour its famous exhibition hall and galleries, where visitors can find fascinating artefacts from the medieval period. Although less well known than other palaces, Tekfur is a must-see destination for those who wish to delve deeper into Byzantine history and discover Istanbul's hidden treasures.

Interesting details

• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm.
• Address: Ayvansaray Mahallesi, Şişhane Caddesi, 34087 Fatih.