Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is the first Ottoman palace in Istanbul. It is located on the historical peninsula, in the district called Sultanahmet. It was where the state was governed from for centuries, before the ruling family moved to the Dolmabahçe Palace. Today, it is one of the most famous museums of Istanbul.

Once upon a time nearly 4.000 people lived in that palace. It was built in 1478 by Mimar Sinan for the sake of Fatih Sultan Mehmet.
It takes place on 80.000 m². It consists of ‘’ Bab-ı Hümayun , Avlu , Saray-ı hümayun and Ic Saray‘’.

WHAT TO EXPECT__________________________________
In Topkapi Palace, you will see the many rooms, corridors, kitchens, etc. of the old Ottoman palace, as well as certain famous sections like the hareem or the Islamic Holy Relics section. You can also see items like kitchen utensils, swords, clothes, treasury items etc. One part of the palace has a wonderful view of the Bosphorus.

Its perfect landscape effects people mostly. You feel you can see whole the İstanbul from there. You can see the Bosphorus , Marmara Sea and Halic.

Its amazing architecture is also attractive. You can feel the breath of Sultans.

You may use your photograph machine in some places of the Palace , but you shouldn’t use flash even in those places.

You may buy some souvenirs for your friends. And take lots of photographs.

HOW TO GO THERE __________________________________
It is easy to find the Palace. It is at the back side of Ayasofya Museum. The most attractive region for tourists. There , Sultanahmet Mosque , Ayasofya Museum , the Basilica Cistern and lots of gift shops takes place.

A frequent bus system, as well as the tram, can take you to the Sultanahmet area.

FEES and HOURS __________________________________

10 TL entrance (~5 Euros)

Only Hareem section is extra: 10 TL (~5 Euros)

Free entrance for museum card holders (Turkish citizens only)

Usually open 9am-7pm in summer months and 9am-5pm in winter months

Open every day except tuesdays