Topkapi Palace ticket prices for 2025 hours have been updated. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Topkapi Palace entrance fee for 2025, opening hours and tips for a smooth visit.
Topkapi Palace Entrance Fee 2026
- As of 2025, the price of a combined ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene church + Harem) is 1700 TRY, which is about 45 euros per person.
- Children under 6 can enter for free.
- Tickets can be purchased either at the entrance or online, through the official website, to avoid long lines.
- For travelers seeking a more in-depth experience, guided tours of Topkapi Palace with professional guides are highly recommended.
- Guided tours include skip-the-line privilege and detailed historical explanations.
Topkapi Palace Opening Hours 2026
Topkapi Palace is open to visitors every day except Tuesdays. The updated opening hours for 2025 are:
- Summer Season (April 1 – October 31): 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Winter Season (November 1 – March 31): 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
The ticket office closes one hour before the closing time, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
What is Topkapi Palace? A Brief History and Importance
Topkapi Palace, built in the 15th century under Sultan Mehmed II, served as the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. This grand complex stands as a symbol of power, wealth, and culture.
The palace houses significant treasures, including the relics of the Prophet Muhammed, imperial jewels and artifacts from the Ottoman era. Its location on Sarayburnu Hill offers stunning views of the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the Sea of Marmara. Today, it serves as a museum and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Topkapi Palace Museum Tour and Guide 2026
For the best experience, consider joining a Topkapi Palace tour led by a professional guide. Guided tours provide historical insights and skip-the-line entry, saving valuable time.
Key highlights of the guided tour include:
- Imperial Council Chamber,
- Treasury Room showcasing Ottoman jewels,
- Holy Relics Chamber and Harem Section.
Private tours can be customized to include other landmarks nearby, such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern.
FAQ
- How to Get to Topkapi Palace?
Topkapi Palace is situated in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, and it is easily accessible by various means of transportation. If you're using public transportation, you can take Tram Line T1 and get off at Sultanahmet Station, which is only a short 5-10 minute walk from the palace. Buses and taxis offer direct access to Sultanahmet Square, placing you right near the entrance. For those staying in the Sultanahmet area, the palace is within walking distance. Visitors who book private tours will have a private vehicle with a driver arranged for a more comfortable and personalized experience.
- What's in Topkapi Palace Museum? Places to See in Topkapi Palace
Each courtyard in the palace offers unique insights into the past of the Ottoman Empire. The First Courtyard, also known as the Court of the Janissaries, marks the entrance to the palace and sets the stage for what lies ahead. Moving deeper into the palace, the Second Courtyard contains several important sections, including the Harem, which was once a labyrinth of rooms serving as the residence of the sultan’s family and concubines. Here, you can also visit the Imperial Council Chamber and the Imperial Kitchens, where you’ll find Ottoman-era kitchenware and ceramics on display. The Third Courtyard is home to some of the palace's most famous attractions, such as the Audience Hall, the Treasury Room, and the Holy Relics Room. The Treasury Room showcases Ottoman imperial jewels, swords, and the legendary Topkapi Dagger, while the Holy Relics Room is particularly significant for history enthusiasts, as it houses sacred relics of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Where is the Harem Section in Topkapi Palace?
The Harem is located within the Second Courtyard of Topkapi Palace, and it is a highly recommended place for those interested in Ottoman history and architecture.
- How long does a Topkapi Palace tour take?
A complete visit to Topkapi Palace, including the Harem, takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- Is the Harem section included in the ticket price?
The Harem section, as well as the Hagia Irene church, is included in the combined Topkapi Palace ticket.
- Is taking photos allowed?
Yes, it is allowed in most parts of the palace, except for the Holy Relics Room, where photography is strictly prohibited. Flash photography is not permitted.
By planning your visit, you can make the most of your time at Topkapi Palace. Whether you’re exploring its rich history or admiring its architectural beauty.
