Topkapi Palace

Description

Constructed in the mid-15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, the Topkapı Palace served as the main residence of the Ottoman Sultans during their reign from 1465 to 1856. The palace was also the venue for state events and royal functions and was capable of accommodating up to over 4000 people during its peak. Comprising 4 courtyards and several secondary buildings, the Topkapi Palace is a prime example of Ottoman architecture and originally featured a mosque, hospital as well as a number of bakeries. At present it displays magnificent collections from the past such as Ottoman treasures, weaponry, garments, jewelry and Islamic calligraphic manuscripts and murals. The palace was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985 and only a few selected areas are accessible to visitors.

Ticket Price

Entrance fees cost around 25 TL.

Opening Hour

Open daily (except on Tuesdays) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (until 7 p.m. during summer)

Recommended Visit Duration

Around 1 hour

Suitable For

Adults, Families, Senior Guests, Young Adults, Children

Must See

Imperial Gate and the courtyards 

Prayer Facilities

Plenty of private space is available for visitors to make use of during prayer times. It is also possible to visit the Sultanahmet Mosque as well as the Firuz Ağa Mosque, Koprulu Mehmet Pasa Mosque and the Vilayet Mosque, which are in close proximity to the Topkapi Palace.

Halal Food

Halal food is available in abundance in the vicinity of the Topkapı Palace as well as the surrounding areas of Istanbul. It is also possible to visit the more prominent Halal restaurants in Istanbul such as the Hayat Cafe, Asitane, Mozaik Café,Hamdi Restaurant, 360Istanbul Restaurant, Bab-i Hayat Restaurant and Istanbul Modern.