Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

Istanbul is not an ordinary city. Rather, it was the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and its history was shaped in the corridors of its magnificent palaces. 

Perhaps the most prominent witness to the rule of the sultans is the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, which is a destination for tourists that takes them to a golden age with all the charming details it contains, 

making the visitor feel like living in that time and making his memory pulse with the nobility and fragrance of this archaeological landmark.

Location of Topkapi Palace in Istanbul:

The Topkapi Palace is located in Istanbul's European part, overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, near the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn Bay. It stands in the heart of the historic Fatih district.

Overview and Sections of Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

The Topkapi Palace in Istanbul was built between 1459 and 1465 under the rule of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. It was the residence of Ottoman sultans for 4 centuries before being transformed into a museum, and still a witness to a rich history.

when visiting the Topkapi Palace, you will feel a huge desire to visit all the sections, due to what has been mentioned of the special historical and wonderful splendor. the tour begins with a spacious square, which includes the Byzantine church of Hagia Irene, in addition to a hospital, a warehouse, and a bakery

The palace includes Divan Square, containing a meeting hall, kitchens, guard quarters, stables, and weaponry for the Sultans. 

In addition to the pavilion where 22 Sultans resided, Sultan Ahmed III's library, a school, rare manuscripts, and an impressive collection of jewelry, including the world's largest diamonds, maps, ancient artifacts, and antique coins.

When visiting the Topkapi Palace, it is highly recommended to visit the Haremlik section, which is designated for the Sultan’s wives and their servants, and includes many rooms and service facilities. 

Furthermore, remember to visit the Chamber of Holy Relics, containing a copy of the Holy Quran, Prophet Muhammad's beard and sword, footprints, and a strand of his beard.

Activities available when visiting Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

During your visit to the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, there are numerous activities to enrich your hours-long tour due to its spacious area, which makes it truly unforgettable. You can explore the Sultan's Hanging Garden and Gulhane Garden, 

which boasts a variety of trees and flowers, including tulips, and visit the various departments and wings of the palace, to take souvenir photos, in this place full of history.

During your visit to Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, you can enjoy watching artistic plays that are held periodically there, buy souvenirs, admire the ornate walls, precious chandeliers, and rare pieces of furniture, then wander around the tourist attractions near it, such as the Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Blue Mosque, and Bayezid Market.

Opening Hours and Entry Fees for Topkapi Palace in Istanbul:

The Topkapi Palace in Istanbul welcomes visitors throughout the week, except Tuesdays, from 10 am to 4 pm. Entry prices range from 200 to 285 Turkish Liras, depending on the sections you want to visit.

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul as a stop on a Bosphorus cruise

When visiting Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, you can not resist the enchanting and breathtaking view of the Bosphorus Strait. 

You will realize that this visit is one of the best opportunities to enjoy a cruise through the strait, which is 1,074 meters long and 39 meters wide, and see the beautiful sights on its banks. 

The Bosphorus Canal connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara and is still considered a dividing line between the Asian and European continents. 

On both banks, you will also find cafes and restaurants serving delicious food, and you do not have to spend a lot, as many of them have reasonable prices to suit all budgets, 

in addition to the possibility of sitting in the stunning green natural spaces, without any costs, enjoying the scene of the charming turquoise-colored paths.

During the boat tour, you will find landmarks that resemble the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul in greatness, including Ottoman gardens and palaces. The most important of these landmarks are:

• Dolmabahce Palace: In the European section of the Bosphorus Strait, which was called the “Palace of the Sultans,” and is famous for its luxurious design that was accomplished by Turkish and foreign architects.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque: This is linked to the most important historical events since the conquest of Constantinople. It is located on the European side of the city. UNESCO classifies it on its list of heritage sites, and it has been described as the eighth wonder, thanks to its magnificent dome, which reached a diameter of 31 meters.
• Ortakoy Mosque: Also in the European part, it is distinguished by its wonderful decorations, and its two towering minarets are a milestone in this sea journey.
• Beykoz: An area located in the Asian side of Istanbul, it is the quietest area of the city, with forests full of chestnut, hazelnut, oak, linden, and pine trees. Maybe you would be interested in seeing the sites that hosted the filming of one of the seasons of the historical series “Resurrection of Ertugrul”.
• Bride Hill: Also on the Asian side, specifically in the Uskudar area, it is a hill that reveals Istanbul with its two beautiful parts, and is filled with wonderful forests and wonderful gardens.
• Maiden's Tower: it’s a chance to see the beauty while visiting the tower, as it dates back to the Greek era and is located on a small island at the southern entrance to the Bosphorus Strait, which makes it a wonderful photographic background for many films and series.

Services are provided to you by (Reyana Tourism)

Reyana Tourism Company (Istanbul Private Tour) provides hotel and resort reservation services in Istanbul and also helps you choose packages suitable for your beloved activities and tours throughout the year in the most gorgeous destinations, various natural landmarks, and famous sites. ‏

Take advantage of the special offers offered by early reservations for you and your family, to enjoy a comfortable, enjoyable, and unforgettable travel experience.