The Admission and Guided Tour of Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul
Are you planning a visit to Istanbul and wondering about the admission and guided tour of Dolmabahçe Palace? Your search ends here, as in this guide we will answer all your questions and give you all the information you need to plan a perfect and festive trip to this majestic palace.
Dolmabahçe Palace has always been a major must-see attraction for tourists visiting Istanbul. Located between the Golden Horn and Bosphorus, the palace was built to replace the Topkapi Palace as the official government residence of the Ottoman Sultans in 1853. The 390-room palace features some of the most exquisite examples of furnishings and art works from the Ottoman Empire.
Admission Fees
Assuming you want to watch the palace alone, admission fee is subject to citizenship:
- Turkish citizens – 25 TL
- Foreigners – 45 TL
Guided Tours
Various tours are available for tourists who are interested in exploring the palace properly. You can book a private or a shared tour according to your convenience. For private tours, you can rent a guide for a maximum of 8 hours and prices start at 100 TL. Shared tours cost 45 TL for an hour session.
It is highly recommended to book a guided tour if you wish to get more detailed information about the palace. During the tour, visitors will get to see some of the most stunning works of art inside the palace like stunning ceiling paintings created by oil colors, six French chandeliers with a total height of 5.5-meters, tables crafted from different glasses, wonderfully decorated Venetian mirrors, China plates, and many more exclusive works of art.
Opening Hours and Closing Days
Dolmabahçe Palace is opened for visitors everyday except for Mondays and Thursdays. The opening hours for both summer (1 March-30 October) and winter seasons (1 November-28 February) are different:
| Season | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Summer | 9 am– 7 pm |
| Winter | 9 am– 5 pm |
Special Discounts
Dolmabahçe Palace has a discount pass system specially designed for repeat visitors. Every visitor to the palace must pay and receive a pass from the ticket office. After receiving your initial pass, visitors can keep one pass and get four new ones for free for next visits within six months.
Special discounts are also available for students and people with disabilities. Those interested need to present relevant documents to get discounts on entrance with their passes.
Important Tips
Here are some useful tips and advice if you plan to visit Dolmabahçe Palace:
- Take Care of your Belongings: Although palace guards are quite strict with security, be careful with your belongings at all times as pickpockets are still common in crowded places.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring along a water bottle because it can get quite hot inside the palace.
- Bring Binoculars: If you are visiting Dolmabahçe Palace at night, bring a pair of binoculars because some details might be difficult to make out due to the darkness.
Visiting Dolmabahçe Palace is truly an experience of a lifetime. Apart from admiring this palace’s beautiful interiors, visitors can learn about its interesting history, including tales of its previous residents. Whether you’re a traveler, an art enthusiast, or a history buff, exploring Dolmabahçe Palace is definitely worth your while.
If you’re looking for an effortless and hassle-free way of seeing Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul, consider booking ahead on GetYourGuide. It is the best choice for unbeatable prices and an easy way to plan your guided tour of Dolmabahçe Palace so that you don’t miss all its magnificent features. Check out GetYourGuide, for more information about their exclusive offers and packages for Dolmabahçe Palace.
Istanbul: An Insider’s Guide
Istanbul, also known as the “City of Seven Hills,” is the capital of Turkey and is full of surprises. The city has a rich history, marvelous architecture, and a vibrant culture that is both old and new. Exploring Istanbul is like taking a journey back in time while enjoying modern-day amenities. Here’s a unique and fresh perspective on what to do and see in Istanbul to make the most of your visit.
Local Attractions: Hidden Gems Only Locals Know About
While the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque attract thousands of visitors each day, there are still some lesser-known spots that will win your heart. The Suleymaniye Hamam, one of the oldest in the city, is an authentic Turkish bath that will cleanse your body and soul. The Rustem Pasha Mosque is a hidden gem with its stunning blue tiles and intricate artwork. Another must-visit is the Ortakoy Mosque, located on the Bosphorus, which offers breathtaking views of the city.
Dining Spots: Delving into Istanbul’s Food Culture
Istanbul is a food lover’s paradise, with its unique blend of Turkish, Ottoman, Persian, and Arabic cuisine. Don’t miss out on a traditional Turkish breakfast, where locals indulge in an array of fresh cheese, olives, honey, and jam. Then, head to the streets and try a midye dolma, a popular street food consisting of mussels stuffed with spiced rice. For lunch, try a classic doner kebab or lahmacun, a thin pizza-like dish topped with minced meat and vegetables. Istanbul is also famous for its baklava, a sweet pastry that’s perfect for dessert.
Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, Art, Music and Customs
Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures, with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city is by attending a whirling dervish ceremony, which is part of Turkey’s mystical Sufi tradition. Turkish baths, also known as hammams, are another fascinating cultural experience where you can relax and indulge in Turkish rituals. The annual Istanbul Biennial hosts a range of contemporary art exhibits, and on any given night, the city is alive with music, dance, and theater performances.
Local History: Captivating Stories from the Past
Istanbul has a rich history that spans over two thousand years, with many captivating stories to discover. One of the most interesting ones is about the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir built by the Romans in the 6th century. Legend has it that Medusa’s head was used as the base of one of the columns in the cistern. Another fascinating part of Istanbul’s history is the tales of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, including the dramatic fall of Constantinople and the glorious reign of Suleiman the Magnificent.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences
Istanbul is full of surprises, and there are many ways to go off the beaten path and discover something new. Take a boat tour on the Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia, and admire the city’s stunning skyline. Visit the Princes’ Islands, a cluster of small islands in the Sea of Marmara, which offer a respite from Istanbul’s bustling city life. You can also explore the Balat neighborhood, a colorful district filled with historic houses, cafes, and trendy boutiques.
Istanbul’s charms are endless, and we hope this insider’s guide will help you explore and appreciate the city’s unique and rich culture. From hidden gems to traditional cuisine, captivating history to surreal experiences, Istanbul will enchant you and leave you with unforgettable memories.
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