Enjoy a live guided experience with a professional local guide.
Listen to a curated audio guide in 25 different languages
Walk past ticket queues and show your mobile QR code at the entrance.
Plans can change, no problem. Learn about the refund policy.
90 Minutes
The palace is huge, full of beautiful gardens and distinctive buildings. It has a museum, a room of sacred relics, a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. Anyway, it's very worth it.
Ninavaleris
08/01/2025 4:50 pm
Great visit and the guide was very helpful. The visit takes minimum 2 hrs for a quick walk around. Nice coffee shop and restaurant at the end of the palace with an amazing view over the sea.
Emirdalton
05/07/2025 12:00 am
Meet your certified local guide in the palace courtyard and enjoy a lively, informative narration about the palace's rich past. As you marvel at the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman Empire, you'll gain insights into the lives of sultans, their families, and the daily workings of the empire.
After the Topkapi Palace guided tour session, your guide take you to the Harem section, once you are in, you're free to explore the palace at your own pace, allowing you to soak in the grandeur and beauty of this historic site.
Topkapı Palace was built in 1465. It contains hundreds of years of history. In the palace are thousands of documents from the Ottoman period. It is basically a paradise for history lovers. You could learn so much about the culture and history of Turkey by just taking a quick tour around the Topkapı Palace. This Palace has witnessed different Sultans, different time periods, and numerous traditions that are still a part of Turkish culture.
Topkapi Palace Guided Tour Meeting Point
Open in Google MapsIn front of the Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III. Your host will be holding a white flag with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and istanbul.com logos.
Children will be asked to present their valid passports at the entrance of the museums in order to validate their age.
All visitors must go through the security check before entering the Palace in Topkapi Palace Guided Tour.
Kindly note that due to the limited capacity, there might be long queues.
For the Topkapi Palace Guided Tour, please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early.
Please note that with this tour, visiting Topkapi Palace requires a guided tour. The entrance will be provided by your guide only.
Please be in front of the Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III at least 15 minutes before your tour time. Your guide will meet you there, holding a white flag with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and istanbul.com logos, and walk with you to the main entrance gate (Bab-ı Hümayun) of Topkapi Palace, which is only a minute away.
Please note that access to the Outer Treasury (Weapon Collection), parts of the Matbah-i Amir Kitchen Complex, and the Petition Chamber / Audience Hall is currently unavailable at Topkapi Palace. All other sections remain open for visits.
Flexible Cancellation: Plans can change, no worries. You can change or cancel within the refundable time period.
Visit the istanbul.com Help Centre for any further questions.
Product code: TPGT88
Based on 2,022 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Topkapi Palace, also known as the Cannon Gate Palace, served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman Sultans during the 15th century. It is situated in the historic peninsula of Istanbul, between the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
Topkapi Palace was the heart of the mighty Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. It witnessed the rule of influential sultans and served as a center for governance, art, education, and culture, leaving behind a profound legacy of Turkish history.
The palace boasts several must-see sections, including the Harem, the Imperial Treasury, the Justice Tower, the Relics Chamber, and the Courtyard of the Eunuchs, each offering unique insights into the opulent life of the Ottoman Sultans.
While photography is allowed in most areas, please note that photography is not permitted in certain sections, especially where precious artifacts are on display. Respect the rules to preserve the historical treasures.
Topkapi Palace is partially accessible for people with disabilities, though some areas may present challenges due to cobblestone-covered paths and uneven terrain. Wheelchairs are not available, so plan accordingly.
Please meet your guide at the Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III. Your guide will be holding a white "Istanbul.com" sign for easy identification. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to ensure a smooth start.
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