Explore Topkapi Palace and its Harem on a 3-hour guided tour. Marvel at its opulence and mystery and learn about this period in Istanbul's history.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Private group available
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 3 - 4 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Skip the ticket line
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English, German
- Wheelchair accessible
Experience
Highlights
- Experience the glory of the Ottoman Era on a tour of Topkapi Palace
- See the treasury, holy relics, and imperial kitchens
- Explore the harem, the private quarters, and the home of the sultans
- Enjoy views of the Golden Horn from the outer terraces
- Benefit from priority access and a small-group tour for a more interactive and personalized experience
- Get tips from your local guide at the end of the tour
Full description
Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s best sight on this exceptionally well-led guided tour. Discover Ottoman history in the Palace and the life of Sultan's family in the harem. Meet your dedicated guide at a hot spot for traditional Turkish delicacies, where there are restroom facilities and you can purchase water or snacks. Then let your guide take you to Topkapi Palace.
Enjoy a 3-hour tour of Topkapi Palace, the heart of the Ottoman Empire. The complex of low buildings, pavilions, and courtyards was a self-contained city, which most inhabitants rarely left. Explore the outer-terraced gardens and admire the view over the Golden Horn.
Visit the harem, ruled by the Queen Mother who wielded domestic and political power. The harem housed hundreds of women and family members as well as hundreds of eunuchs, who performed a wide range of duties.
Admire cupboard doors inlaid with mother of pearl and tortoise shell and stunning Iznik tiles with verses from the Quran. The tour ends with a visit to the holy relics and the imperial kitchens.
Includes
- Admission ticket for Topkapi Palace
- Admission ticket for the harem
- Licensed tour guide
- Skip-the-line access
- 3-hour guided tour of Topkapi Palace and the Harem
- Small-group tour (maximum 12 people) or a private walking tour (depending on option chosen)
- Meeting point with toilet facilities and Turkish delicacies
- Lunch and personal expenses
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Optional gratuities
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All required protective equipment is provided
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
House of Medusa Restaurant in Sultanahmet, Alemdar Mh., Yerebatan Cd. No:9, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey.
Open in Google Maps ⟶