Attraction
Hagia Sophia
Justinian's sixth-century domed basilica, now the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, with a separate visitor route through its upper galleries above the prayer hall.
Topkapı Palace
The sprawling Ottoman palace on Seraglio Point, with courtyards, the Harem, imperial treasury displays and Bosphorus views, plus the Byzantine church of Hagia Irene.
At a glance
- Type
- Palace museum
- Area
- Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Opening
- Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesday) · 09:00–18:00
- Official site
- millisaraylar.gov.tr
- Last checked
- October 23, 2026
Good to know
- Harem
- Hagia Irene
- Card-only ticket kiosks
Why we recommend it
For centuries the seat of Ottoman sultans, Topkapı occupies the tip of the historic peninsula where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus. A series of courtyards leads from the ceremonial gates to pavilions, kitchens and treasury rooms, while the Harem's tiled apartments reveal how the royal household lived. The outer terraces give some of the finest water views in the old city.
The combined ticket covers the palace, the Harem and the Byzantine church of Hagia Irene in the first courtyard, and is valid for one day. Tickets are not sold online, and the kiosks take cards only. Allow at least half a day, arrive at 09:00 to stay ahead of tour groups, and remember the palace is closed on Tuesdays.
Reviewed by Lifestylemetro · Details checked October 23, 2026
Topkapı Palace FAQs
Which day is Topkapı closed?
Tuesdays.
Can I buy tickets online?
No — tickets are sold at the ticket office and the card-only kiosks beside it; the combined ticket covers the palace, Harem and Hagia Irene and is valid for one day.