Istanbul Topkapı Palace and Harem Guided Tour

5.0 (2 reviews) 2 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

2 reviews

5.0

Istanbul Topkapı Palace and Harem Guided Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Istanbul Topkapı Palace and Harem Guided Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Istanbul's rich history with your experienced tour guide on the Topkapi Palace tour. Specialist guide’s expertise illuminates the intricate architecture of the palace and adds an extra layer of intrigue to its family (called as Harem) section, especially with the inclusion of the harem.

Wander through the majestic halls, hear captivating tales of its construction and cultural significance, bringing its history to life before your eyes. Overall, small group guidance transforms this tour into a captivating journey through Istanbul's heritage, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Make the most of your time by skipping the line with your guide's assistance
Delve into the fascinating history of the palace and see its priceless treasures
Enter the Harem and get an inside peak of the Ottoman sultans' private lives
Be in awe of stunning architecture, colorful tilework, and intricate designs

Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Small Group Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate New Product

At a glance

Duration: 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 8 people
People per booking: 1–8
Guide: English
Operated by: Tematique Tours

Ages: Infants (0–6 years) · Children (7–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Topkapi Palace and Harem entry tickets (*if all-inclusive option selected)
Included: English Speaking Tour Guide
Included: Small Group

Not included

Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not included: Gratitudes

Itinerary

Hagia Irene Museum

Passing by

Hagia Irene sometimes known also as Saint Irene, is an Eastern Orthodox church located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace in Istanbul. It is the oldest known church structure in the city and one of the only Byzantine churches in Istanbul that was never converted into a mosque, as it was used as an arsenal for storing weapons until the 19th century
Topkapi Palace Museum

2 hours Admission included

Topkapı Palace was the seat of Ottoman Empire more than 380 years where 24 of 36 Sultans lived and ruled their land. The palace was transformed into a museum in 1924 and now one of Turkey’s richest museums with its permanent and temporary exhibition halls. Buildings and courtyards, including a treasury, apartments, bathhouses, harems, and an armoury, holy relics section, not to mention imperial halls, kitchens and royal chambers that make a visit into Topkapi’s inner walls one of the world’s great wonders. Treasures within include 13th-century Japanese porcelain, weaponry used by the Ottoman army, 86 carat 4th biggest diamond of its kind and world famous Topkapi Dagger any many more..
TopkapI Palace

30 min Admission included

Witness and learn about the intricate architecture of the palace and be intrigued by the Harem, once the private quarters of the sultans and their families.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front (outside) of FOODIE-IST CAFE AND BRASSERIE. It is approximately 2 minutes walking distance from (T1) Sultanahmet tram stop. Your guide will wear a tour guide badge and will be easy to spot.

End point

Tour ends in the last courtyard of the palace. After the guided tour, guests can continue to visit the large exhibition halls.

Using your ticket

⚠️ Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Finding a taxi and navigating Istanbul traffic can sometimes take longer than expected, so we kindly recommend allowing a little extra time for your journey. As this is a shared experience with other participants, the tour will begin promptly at the scheduled time. Thank you for your understanding.

ℹ️ If the All-Inclusive option is not selected, the entrance fee to Topkapı Palace and Harem (€55 per person) is not included in the tour price. You can pay the entrance fee to your guide in cash in EUR, or the equivalent amount in Turkish Lira (TL) or USD, or via an online payment link provided by your guide. Your guide will then arrange access so you can skip the regular ticket-purchase queue.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If the All-Inclusive option is not selected, the entrance fee to Topkapı Palace and Harem (€55 per person) is not included in the tour price. You can pay the entrance fee to your guide in cash in EUR, or the equivalent amount in Turkish Lira (TL) or USD, or via an online payment link provided by your guide. Your guide will then arrange access so you can skip the regular ticket-purchase queue.

Options

Tour Without Entry Tickets

Pay on the tour: Topkapi Palace and Harem entry tickets (55 EUR pp) is not included in this option. Pay in cash on the tour.
Tour with Entry Tickets

All Inclusive/Ticket included: ✔Topkapi Palace and Harem entry tickets are included in this option. ✔️Priority access