Coisas para fazer em Topkapi Palace

Since it was peak season and I was traveling with my mother, I booked a fast-track ticket for convenience. I usually explore museums and palaces thoroughly with audio guides even when traveling alone, so I booked the fast-track option (including an audio guide). However, I later found out that this didn't include the Harem section. To add the Harem, it would cost an additional 1040 Lira, which is about 35,000 won, if purchased at the internal ticket office. In hindsight, it would have been better to buy a ticket that included a guided tour from the start. The palace is so vast with so much to see that it took us 3 hours just to look around on our own. We visited on a Sunday, and there were long queues at each section. So, I thought it would have been more efficient if a guide had pointed out the key locations and must-see items. Also, the audio guide included with this ticket is not the official palace commentary but a much more concise version. While the official version might be better for those eager to learn when exploring alone, on a day like today when we were just enjoying the beautiful and rare artifacts, we didn't really listen to the commentary anyway. So, it wasn't an issue. The ticket is exchanged inside the meeting point (Bistro), and at the designated time, the host personally escorts you into the palace. It was nice to arrive a bit early, have a drink, and wait comfortably. The host spoke English clearly and distinctly, which made me think it would have been even better to have an English guided tour. Anyway, the conclusion is that even a simple guided tour is better than none, and if you're going, I recommend a tour that includes the Harem section. However, I don't regret exploring freely, and I was truly happy because Topkapi Palace was so magnificent. With its panoramic views, architecture, and the artifacts and jewels inside, despite the expensive entrance fee, it's a must-visit tourist destination that I highly recommend!

We first met at a pub and then headed to Topkapi Palace together, which was a fun and unique way to start the tour! 😆 It was raining, so walking around and exploring the palace was a little difficult, but somehow that made the experience even more memorable and fun. ☔️🇹🇷 We joined the 3 PM tour, but it felt a little rushed toward the end. If you want to explore Topkapi Palace more comfortably and have enough time to see everything, I’d definitely recommend choosing an earlier tour!

We enjoyed a beautiful view of the Bosphorus Strait from a wonderful location until sunset. We could clearly see Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Hisarı, and the Maiden's Tower from the sea as we passed under the bridge. Chef Ahmet served warm tea and distributed blankets. The fruit and cookie platter, along with the additional french fries and toast, were also very delicious. With drink service included, this tour offers great value for money and is highly recommended. Please do order drinks and additional food! Thank you for the lovely magnet gift! This is my third time in Turkey, but this cruise was the best, allowing me to relax and enjoy the music at a leisurely pace. Thank you for excellent service, Chef Ahmet!

Dolmabahçe Palace is truly stunning, living up to its reputation as the New Palace. The entire palace stands by the water, with its snow-white marble architecture facing the Bosphorus Strait. Its exterior is grand and magnificent, making every photo a masterpiece. The skip-the-line ticket saved us from long queues, and entry was smooth. With the audio guide, we could understand the historical stories behind it. Inside, the palace is opulent, with giant crystal chandeliers dazzling brightly and abundant gold decorations adding to its splendor, creating a powerful visual impact. Strolling along the corridors, one can experience the luxury of late Ottoman European court life while also enjoying views of the strait. The overall experience was excellent, the pace of the visit was comfortable, and the architectural aesthetics were impressive. It's definitely a must-visit when in Istanbul.

Overall, it was excellent. Our tour guide, Ali, was very courteous and friendly, explained everything very well, and all locations were covered. Good value for money.

This pass was super convenient and saved me a lot of time. I didn’t have to queue for ticket just scan the QR code and walk in. The only attraction that required meeting up with a guide was Topkapi Palace. The main queues were for the security check and the museum section inside the palace. Overall, it made sightseeing much easier.

it was a very informative tour and the guide was. very open to questions. it was great

A Bosphorus cruise is a must-do activity when visiting Istanbul, Turkey, as the scenery along the Istanbul coastline is incredibly beautiful. Due to time constraints, I only arranged a short cruise, but if I have the chance, I definitely want to go on a dinner cruise.

Great experience and worth every peny. We were only the ones who participated in the tour and it seemed like we had our private guide. Our tour guide, Elaida, was very knowledgeable about the different tourist spots. So much to see in just a span of 12 hours. Great lunch as well.