Topkapı Palace
The magnificent palace and museum where the Ottoman sultans lived for 400 years.
From Meşale Restaurant & Cafe to Topkapı Palace
Why visit?
Four hundred years of Ottoman power gathered in a single complex. The sacred relics section is unlike anything else in the world — the belongings of the Prophet Muhammad are displayed here. The Bosphorus view comes free.
Short History
Mehmed the Conqueror began building the palace in 1459, six years after the conquest of Istanbul; it was completed in 1465. The palace served as the sultans' residence and the seat of government until Dolmabahçe Palace was finished in 1853. A decree dated 3 April 1924 turned it into a museum. Today it falls within the UNESCO World Heritage site "Historic Areas of Istanbul".
About
Begun in 1459 by Mehmed the Conqueror and completed in 1465, Topkapı Palace was the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire for roughly four hundred years and the residence of its sultans. It is a vast complex taking in the Harem, the kitchens, the treasuries, the sacred relics and the gardens. With its position overlooking the Bosphorus, its Iznik tiles and its imperial treasures, it is one of the richest palace museums in the world.
The Harem ticket is bought separately and most visitors skip it — but the Harem is the most fascinating part of the palace. If your budget allows, see it too. And remember it is closed on Tuesdays.
What to know before visiting
Photo spots
The Bab-üs Selam gate
The classic shot from the entrance to the second courtyard
Bosphorus view
A panorama of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus from the palace terrace
İznik tiles
The tiles in the Baghdad and Revan pavilions
How to get here from Meşale
From Meşale 940 m (15 minutes)
T1 tram — Gülhane stop, then an 8 min walk
No parking nearby. A taxi is recommended.
Your map app calculates the time from live traffic, so we don't print a fixed figure here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the Harem needs a separate ticket. It is one of the most fascinating parts of the palace and we recommend not missing it.
The Müze Kart is generally valid at the palace entrance; the Harem requires a separate ticket. Practice can change, so confirm at the ticket office or on the official site.
Allow at least 2 hours for the palace, or 3–4 hours including the Harem.
Visit Information
- From Meşale
- 15 min (940 m)
- Visit duration
- 2–3 hours
- Hours
- Wednesday–Monday 09:00–18:00 (closed Tuesday)
- Ticket
- Palace entry paid · Harem charged separately · Museum Pass valid (except the Harem)
- Best time
- At opening time or in the afternoon (midday is crowded)
- Busy
- High
- Accessible
- Limited
- Family Friendly
- Yes
Highlights
- The Harem
- Sacred relics
- The sultans' treasures
- Bosphorus view
Tags
Nearby places
Source & Freshness
- Last checked:
- September 4, 2026
Hours and prices are for guidance only. Please confirm with an official source before your visit.