This is a must-see in Istanbul! LOCATION It's in a different area than the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia so it takes a bit of a tram ride, but it's worth it. TIMING We were not prepared for the sheer size of this palace. Holy COW. We came midday with a few other things to do in the area, and could have left much more time to go slower but still very much enjoyed spending ~2 hours here. This palace is soooo huge, and they have different areas throughout the buildings with exhibitions and displays. See as many as you can! I recommend starting on the right side and working back and around from there. ATTRACTIONS Most of the attraction is the sheer magnificence of the interior decor and design in the palace: chandeliers, stunning rooms and spaces, and lots of art. NO PICS?!? The biggest bummer and reason for docking a star: NO PHOTOS?! You're telling me you're gonna show me the most magnificent castle and I can't take a pic?! That was a huge bummer. You can be sneaky but they do have guards everywhere. What's the harm in a little no-flash memory of the space? AMENITIES They have a cafe and a restaurant onsite, as well as restrooms and some gardens with benches to relax. You'll need it from walking around the massive palace! read more

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A top sight in Istanbul. I liked the walk through that you do through the main building. There are no photos allowed but it's a huge palace like something you would see in Europe. Outside there are some beautiful views of the coast and city and lovely gardens to walk through. I bought my tickets that day it wasn't too long in the morning. Like any other place, you have to go through security and another line for tickets and then another to enter. It was my favorite place to visit. In the spring the tulips were nice. read more

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This palace is totally different from Topkapi, but is certainly worth visiting. Architecturally, it's close to European palaces which was one of the goals during its construction. The palace has 246 rooms and a few dozen of bathrooms - most of the rooms are very opulent and well preserved but... you can't take photos! (Bummer!) There are a few museums in the complex and the grounds themselves are nice to walk around. I'd say plan around 3 hours here. read more

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We visited Dolmabahçe Palace on our last full day in Istanbul.  Sitting on the European shore of the Bosporus, the grounds are beautiful, and the interiors are opulent.   This is a narrated self-paced guided tour.  Shoe covers are required.  It was amazing to see how the late 19th and early 20th century Ottoman sultans and their families lived, entertained and ruled the Ottoman Empire.  We paid an entrance fee of 650 Turkish Lira (TL) each by credit card (about US$27).  The combined ticket covered the Main Building, the Harem Rooms and various Palace Collections. read more

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I am not one for highly embellished decor, but I saved this visit for a rainy day and was pleasantly surprised. Even though the ticket is hefty for the region (roughly 25 US) it has a lot to offer. Over two hundred rooms and a painting museum. It stands out in the area because of its size, proximity to the Bosp. Sea, and its Western European Rococo Baroque inspired design. Larger than I expected. I wasn't planning to but I spent over three hours, and I wasn't lingering over any particular room or exhibit. Logistics: Go in the morning because the lines in the afternoon was fifty times longer. Only four ticket booths with VERY slow service. Consider online sales. I was thirteenth in line and it took over 20 minuter to purchase a ticket. Free audio with ticket BUT it is in the office BEFORE you enter the turnstyle. Bring ID as deposit. Wear comfortable flats as you must put on plastic booties indoors. NO indoor pictures allowed. There is a tram stop at Kabatas five minutes away. read more

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I've been to a LOT of palaces globally, and while this one is certainly lovely - especially from the outside and the top floor - the overall experience was mind of subpar. I'd recommend Topkapi instead. First off: they should probably limit crowds or have someone doing better guidance in the small halls. Tour groups would basically stop to do their explanations in the absolute narrowest hallways making it nearly impossible for non tour guests to get past them. So you're stuck waiting for the tour groups to get done explaining to be able to even move forward. Secondly, the first floor is mostly painted on the ceilings. They're not impressively adorned but literally painted. Now, when you get to the top floor - it's extravagant. Truly beautiful and incredible. The other thing that sucks is the no photo rule, especially since photos are allowed in Topkapi and Hagia Sophia. Just makes it a little less fun of an experience to not be able to take photos and reflect on it later, especially since the core experience is just being around crowds. The grounds themselves are beautiful and probably the best part. Overall I'd say it's not really worth going to if you're on a limited time in Istanbul - stick with Topkapi and Hagia Sofia - but if you have a long time there, why not? read more

A grand Baroque and Rococo palace for the Sultan The largest palace in Turkey is Dolmabahçe Palace. It is positioned on the shores of the Bosphorus, was built between 1843-1856. The palace was constructed by order of the Sultan Abdülmecid, the thirty-first Ottoman ruler, and carries the signatures of the late architects Garabet Balyan and his son Nikogos. The finances required for the construction of the structure, which is regarded to be a rather amazing instance of the normal "Turkish House" building plan. It was provided by way of loans from European banks to the amount of $1.9 billion in today's money. Dolmabahçe, was to be used as an alternative to the Topkapi Palace. After the Ottoman dynasty left the country, the property would serve as the President of the Presidency between 1927-1949. In 1984 it was turned into a "museum-palace". Again, another spot where pictures weren't allowed inside. But they just wouldn't have done the extravagance any justice. The 285 rooms, 46 hallways and 6 baths with 68 toilets was amazing. Upon entering, you are given coverings for your shoes. I highly recommend using the free headset for a great tour at your leisure. It describes each room's use, and where the luxurious furnishing came from. It has the largest collection of Bohemian and Baccarat crystal chandeliers in the world and are still lighting your journey through the rooms. The Crystal Staircase is built of Baccarat crystal, brass, and mahogany. Proconnesian marble, Egyptian alabaster, and porphyry were used in decorating. The largest Hereke rug is in the main hall. You'll see the death bed of Ataturk, the father of modern Turkey. The Hareem is the private quarters of the Sultan and his family. These rooms are a little simpler than rest pf the palace that was used for receiving and entertaining guests. Make sure you stroll the grounds and gardens overlooking the river. This palace takes more effort to visit due to its location away from the historic area. Well worth the adventure. It is also not on the museum pass. read more

Dolmabahçe Palace was built towards the end of the Ottoman empire in the mid 1800s. Sultan Abdülmecid I commissioned the construction to replace the medieval Topkapi Palace for his family after seeing the more modern, luxurious and comfortable palaces of his contemporary European monarchs. No expense was spared in this new palace which boasts 285 rooms, 131 handmade Hereke silk carpets, running water for the 68 water-closets imported from Great Britain and 6 Turkish baths, gas lighting and a 750 bulb, 4.5 ton crystal chandelier, the largest in the world. A stunning fourteen tons of gold were used to decorate the ceilings. The construction cost was five million Ottoman gold lira, or approximately $1.5 billion in today's dollars. Unfortunately, it was built as the Ottoman fortunes were declining. This put additional strain on the financial well being of the declining Ottoman Empire. Today, it is an amazing palace to visit. The architecture combines elements of Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical European design with Ottoman elements. It is the largest palace in Turkey. It has the traditional elements of the men's quarters (Mabeyn-i Hümâyûn, or Selamlık) in one wing and the private family quarters (Harem-i Hümâyûn, the Harem) in a different wing separated by a ceremonial hall. It was interesting to visit Topkapı Palace and Dolmabahçe Palace back to back to contrast the beginnings and end of the Ottoman Empire. Topkapi is more spread out and decorated extensively with Iznik tiles and classical Ottoman carvings. Dolmabahçe Palace could be called the "Crystal Palace" as it has the largest collection of Baccarat and Bohemian crystal chandeliers in the world. It even has a double horseshoe staircase with Baccarat crystal balusters in the staircase. Unlike many European palaces, this palace could be accessed by land or sea. After the establishment of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk used the palace as a presidential residence in the summers. He died in the palace on November 10, 1938. The clock in the bedroom where he died is still set to 9:05, his time of death. This was an amazing place to visit. The palace, gardens and even collection of china and paintings were so beautiful. Most of the original furniture is also on display. We took a private tour with Ensar from Istanbulday to really maximize our understanding, but there are group tours available in several language. read more

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This palace was home to six sultans in the late 1800s and then was the summer home of the first President of the Republic of Turkey. After that, it became a museum. The palace grounds themselves are huge, and they let groups inside at timed intervals. I recommend getting one of the audio guides (which come in several languages). As you go from room to room, there are numbers on the various displays that indicate what number to press on the audio guide for the history. The place is quite luxurious with lots of gold, crystal, and expensive stones. You will also find a large number of paintings. Though Dolmabahce is much newer and smaller than Topkapi Palace, it is interesting in its own right. read more

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I was quite looking forward to visit this palace, unfortunately, my experience here wasn't that great. Firstly, the official website of this place isn't really clear about it if this included in the Museum Pass, but I can tell you by experience, the Museum Pass (for foreign visitors) doesn't cover the admission here. Only the Museum Card/Pass (for the local residences) does. Since I was here, I decided to go in to have a look. There were a lot people around noon. After nearly 2 hours waiting on the queue under the sun, I finally got the ticket and visit. It was really chaotic, how things were running here. Especially, they didn't let visitors purchase thicket online. The ticket cost 300 Lira, when I was vsiiting. The price is different for local and foreign visitors. This was the most expensive museum I visited so far in Istanbul. But I thought, it's okay, I can see the beautiful gate towards Bosporus. Nope, the whole path was under renovation. They could have let visitors know before going there, but nope. The rest of palace was still open for visiting. But no photos are allowed inside the building. If you saw someone post that here. They did that on their on risk. The staff here are very strict about it. Not a fun experience. The palace itself is gorgeous. Many things to see and great place to learn more about history. The museum also offers free audio guide to help visitors understand everything better. If you plan to visit, try to get here as earlier as possible. Don't take any gimbal with you and prepare some cash just in case. Personally, I think, if you had visit other palaces in Europe before. This place is pretty similar. Not a must-to-see. Especially with such long waiting time. If you stay close by this area or have extra time in your trip, why not. read more

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As the most expensive tourist attraction in Istanbul it should be known that interior photos are prohibited at Dolmabahçe Sarayı, which acted as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th and early 20th century. Constructed on the banks of the Bosphorus in Baroque/Rococo this is a worthy stop for architecture fans and entails 285 rooms with a self-guided tour provided by headset. read more

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Istanbul's first European style palace, opulent, and excessive in size filled lavishly and decorated with gold and crystal. It is a mixture of Baroque, Rococo, Neo Classic and traditional Ottoman art and culture. It has the largest collection of Bohemian and Baccarat crystal chandeliers in the world. I just wish that photography is allowed inside so visitors can capture its jawdropping beauty. Its a must see if you are in Istanbul. read more

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I would recommend at least two hours to see all the rooms and exhibits. It's a very beautiful property, with influences from France and Europe! I was quite impressed the grand room, the social ballroom where the sultan welcomed dignitaries. read more

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Beautiful place to visit. Well worth the price of admission! This is definitely a must do while you're in Istanbul. BEWARE: the cab drivers waiting across the street from the palace are SCAM artists!!! Get them to declare your price & route before you get in the cab. Cabby was coming up with all kinds of excuses why the short ride was meandering up & down side streets. He wanted 1400tl for what should only be 300tl max. read more

A worthwhile place to visit to soak in Turkish history and stories. Incredible architectural work and located on the Bosphorus, this destination is worth a couple of hours. read more

This was the second place that was a must-see for me. Seeing the gates of the palace that go right to the water when open were mesmerizing to me, and they proved to be just as majestic in person as in the pictures. The palace grounds are huge, so I would definitely recommend getting the ticket for the whole tour. You can get audio guides for the main palace, and give yourself a couple of hours to peruse the different buildings. The history is intriguing and the decor is ornate. beautiful and magnificent. It is located right at the bottom of the hill where the football stadium is in Besiktas. There was a long line when we went, but it went quite quickly. You can do a fast pass, but we opted to go at our own pace, as we didn't want to be rushed. After the main palace, we went to the restaurant on the palace grounds for a bite to eat and some coffee and tea (of course). The restaurant on location is good, and the view is also beautiful! Enjoy!!! read more

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Beautiful palace with an amazing architecture. Just by the sea. Do not hesitate to visit!

This palace is the last of the Ottoman Sultan. It was also the residence of KEMAL Atatürk, the founder of modern state of Turkey. There are several tours you can go on. The history of the palace is interesting and worth it for a visit. I got the feeling that this palace was an imitation of European ones. It feels that way too. The Ottoman Empire was in transition before the palace was built. read more

One day in the 1800s, Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecid must had heard about the extravagant royal residences of his European contemporaries, because he looked at his crib in Topkapi Palace and said (ad verbatim probably but in Turkish of course), "Naw man I ain't living in this antique crap no more. I'm gonna build a new crib so dope that 'em Euro haters ain't got none on me!" Our competitive sultan then got his architect homies and drop loads of dough to build a lit crib. Thus was origin of perhaps Istanbul's most extravagant building - Dolmabahce Palace. Indeed, no expense was spared in the construction of Dolmabahce, the final residence of the Ottoman sultanate. Incredible amount of beautiful marble were used to construct the magnificent facades of the palace gates and buildings, as countless gold and crystal covered the entirety of the palace interior. At first glance, you may quickly dismiss Dolmabahce as an over-the-top European copycat, but examine more closely and you will find the palace to architecturally unique. While the fundamental style of Dolmabahce is undoubtedly European, you can still find Ottoman influence in this architectural remix. The most obvious instance is due to the Islamic ban on depiction of people, so instead of the cherubs and goddesses that adorned European palaces, Dolmabahce is full of floral and various geometrical patterns. In other words, the decor of Dolmabahce is similar to the impressive patterns on the tiles in the Blue Mosque, but the patterns are realized through gold and marble. Iznik tiles are so 15th-century. The oriental-style furniture within certainly make the remix even more interesting. What does all of this mean for plebs like us? We can witness this fine example of regal extravagance from the twilight years of the Ottoman sultanate! You will see from the brag-worthy public rooms of the Selamlik to the shadowy rooms of the Harem that Dolmabahce could easily parallel with even the famous European palaces like Versailles. While the admission is unfortunately not included in the Musekart, Dolmabahce should nonetheless be a must-go destination on all Istanbul itinerary. For the best experience, go during a sunny weather so that the sun reflects off the white marble throughout the palace to best witness the palace splendor, and go after you visited Topkapi Palace (preferably on a different day because two palaces may be too much for our peasant minds) so that you can compare the architectural evolution of sultanate palaces. No photography is allowed inside the buildings, but I don't think any photo you could take or see will do justice of how grand the interior of Dolmabahce is. This is something that you must witness in person! --- LOGISTICS: - Nearest tram stop: Kabatas (5 minute walk) - Audio guide included with admission (ID or 200 TL deposit required) - Selimalik and Harem admissions are separate - Daily quota of 3000 people (as of Nov '17) so morning visit is highly recommended read more

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This is a lovely European style palace. It was drizzling when we went, so they made us wear little footies over our shoes so the carpets wouldn't get dirty. No photos allowed inside, and we could only enter at set times with a guided tour. The groups were way too huge, and guides had heavily accented English, so it was kind of hard to hear what was going on. I noticed that the English sign had entry fees at twice the cost of the Turkish signs. For instance, we paid 40 TL each for the palace and harem, but it was only 20 TL for the Turkish tour. Craziness. Beware of the restaurant right outside the palace. Hustlers getting you seated, no menus in sight, and crappy, cold food. :( read more

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Breathtaking, spectacular and beautiful. A highlight and must-see if you're going to Turkey. Just be aware in order to obtain a free audio guide, you'd need to hand in photo ID/passport as collateral. read more

A gorgeous palace located in the Besiktas area. It's a huge palace and give yourself time to see the palace and grounds with amazing views across the Bosphorus over Istanbul. There are guided tours and it costs 30 lira to see the place. It's about 118,000 sqm including the grounds and the palace itself is about 80,000 sqm of it. It was built in the 1800's and the last few sultanas of the Ottoman Empire lived here. It was also used by the republic after the caliphate was disbanded. You can walk to this palace from Galata square and it takes about 40mins to walk here. It was not so busy and nice to walk around the beautifully manicured grounds. I loved it here and would come back here again. The opulence and the beautiful work inside are well worth a visit. No photos are allowed inside. read more

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Amazing palace! Don't forget to take a break in their coffee shops very pretty ...make sure to learn about Ataturk and his great work before you visit... read more

This is an amazing palace, built later in the Ottoman Empire as a response to Versailles. And it succeed in its goal to be greater than Versailles on many levels. The ornate nature of the architecture, as well as the furniture and other appointments, is a spectacle to be seen. And the place is HUGE read more

Dolmabahce is such a breath taking place to visit. I know whenever people want to visit Istanbul, Topkapi, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia are probably the first spots anyone wants to hit. However, this is really one of those places you need to add next. Yes, it is pretty crowded. If you can, try to come early in the morning. Otherwise, you will be stuck in a line all day. One annoying part about this place are the long lines you have to wait in. There's one to buy the ticket, another one to get into the palace, another one for tours. And, if you'd like a tour in English, you'll probably be waiting the longest out of anyone else there. They are extremely strict in the Palace - you cannot wander around by yourself and have to walk in certain areas to maintain the place. However, if you see how well it is maintained, you will completely understand! We ended up coming here with a group of four people so the lines weren't horrible. It was a great way to get a few pictures. Best part? Everyone is already in line so you don't have to worry about a bunch of tourists in the background of your photos. All in all, I really don't think any trip to Istanbul is complete without a trip to Dolmabahce. read more

A beautiful historical place. One of the must see places if you're visiting Istanbul. The art and design of tis place is extremely beautiful. Don't use the shop, everything is over priced. It's about 20 minutes walking distance from Taksim. There is a parking near by. You're not allowed to take pictures inside. You can spend 1__3 hours here if you get the full ticket to see the enitre palace. Such an amazing decoration and architecture. Tickets are little pricey but it is worth it. Spectacular experience. read more

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Now this was fun to see. I love experiencing palaces rather than museums. Unfortunately only 25% of the palace was open but it still was interesting. We had a private tour guide for the day who told us all about the place. The chandeliers and decor are so intricate and elegant, and the size of the ballroom is amazing. The art work wasn't that old to be admired but was still mesmerizing. And where else can you see a palace that's right on the water? Only bummer part is no photos inside. read more

Dolmabahçe Sarayı - The front - VN - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Istanbul, 34

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Very interesting Palace of the Sultans. Sometimes pretty long lines outside waiting to enter. The Palace shows the Western influence into the Ottoman Empire, sometimes in a funny way by mixing different styles in a truly odd way. Wifey proclaimed it "Westoxication," and "very garish." The Palace is used even today for State visits and important meetings. Don't forget to visit the Harem quarters where wife and concubines lived. Recommended! read more

Dolmabahçe Sarayı - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Istanbul, 34

Not what I expected, in a completely mind-blowing way. This truly is a wonder in Istanbul, and I can say that after having seen literally everything else. Of all the architecture, grandeur, and excellent history alive and well in the city, the palace is truly a gem -- if you know something about Turkish history, it's even more. I didn't mind the guided tour -- I was lucky enough to jump on the Turkish one (good even if you don't speak Turkish...you've read all about it in your Lonely Planet guide anyway, haven't you??) -- and it was completely lovely. The tour guide moved along quickly enough so that we wouldn't get caught up in traffic, and I more or less felt like I was walking around on my own. If you're pressed for time (the palace closes at 4pm in the Winter), join the Turkish tours. There are less people and as long as you don't look like a foreigner/talk loudly in English, they'll let you in these smaller groups that have dramatically lower wait times. Also, you can easily do the harem and the official part in 2 hours, but that is the minimum time you'll need due to wait times for the tours. The harem is worth seeing, but I don't recommend paying the 15 TL extra unless if you know a lot about Turkish/Ottoman history or are really interested in seeing bedrooms and kids' rooms. Have fun and take your time if you can -- the end of the official part of the palace was one of the most amazing surprises of my life. read more

With so many palaces and castles around the UK, you might think that we've seen it all.. However, Dolmabahce Sarayi is gorgeous, stunning place. Very well preserved with all furniture, paintings and sculptures, and God, you gotta love those carpets! Very impressive 4 tonnes chandlier in the main ball room, which, in fact, was a gift from Queen Victoria, and is believed to be the largest chandlier in the world. The palace's gardens are in a very good shape, and I only hope I could see them once again in spring/summer time. And the view across the Bosphorus is marvelous, you can actually see Asia (the Asian part of Istanbul to be more specific). Our tour guide was very nice, knew everything and was happy to answer all questions the group had. And for the football lovers, the palace is 100 meters away from the Besiktas stadium. read more

It's not a traditional kind of saray (palace) for Ottomans, that's why you'll see the difference between Topkapi and it. Dolmabahce is built in the late era of Ottoman's, and it can be seen affected by European's style. The difference can be read on internet, yet, the palace is quite different from traditional Turk architercture. In addition, i definitely advise you to have a cup of turkish coffe next to the bosphorous in its garden in midnight, it is probably open to 3 am. read more

While not as familiar to most foreigners (Americans) as the Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce is a must-see on any visits to Istanbul. It is located some distance from the main historical areas, but it is right at the end stop of the tram that runs along the Bosporus, so very easy to get to. And it you are staying near the Taksim Square area, it is straight downhill (a VERY STEEP downhill!) The palace was the residence of the Sultan and his family from the mid-1800's, as well as the residence for Ataturk after the Ottomans fell. It is very European in style...largely baroque-ish. But grand in every respect. The phenomenal chandeliers and ornate decorations give a clear feel for the era. Do spring for the Full Ticket, which include the Harem (private family quarters in the back of the main palace. Just interesting to see how the family lived...not so good to be wife number 3 or 3, but Mother of the Sultan, was clearly a pretty good deal...if you didn't mind ever leaving the Palace! read more

This is one of the most beautiful places you could see. Honestly, I would skip topkapi entirely and take the train out to see this place instead if your time in Istanbul is short. Gorgeously preserved, you get a guided tour. I don't know why they split the tour into two parts, but the Harem segments is more of the same, it's the living quarters and isn't as fancy as the main part of the palace. This is a must see for the historical city, and where the "baller" Ottomans lived. read more

Wonderful must see palace. Ticket line can be long so keep that in mind. Definately worth it.

This palace is really interesting and nice to visit. Unfortunately the guided tours are not really well organized. We had problems already buying the ticket since the credit card POS was not working (but it could happen). The major issue is that you are in big group and the tour guide is really difficult to understand or he does not wait that you are there in order to start with his explanation. Moreover due of the size of the group and due to the facts that some people does not speak/understand English, they will talk during the visit and you cannot follow the guide. Anyway it is really worth to pay a visit at this palace. read more

Not impressive!!quite expensive to visit.. and on the taksim side.. not covered by the museum pass.. as mentioned elsewhere.. looks like any palace anywhere in the world.. closed on thursday.. read more

A must see stop in Istanbul which is generally lesser know than topkapi, Hagia Sophia and blue mosque. The grounds and architecture are amazing though don't expect ottoman influences or you will be disappointed. The fact that is on water's edge makes it that mush more appealing. read more

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When you hear of Istanbul you hear Topkapi, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia....this place is the unsung hero. A fabulous palace of grandeur that is a must see in Istanbul. The Ottoman Sultans surely visited Versailles and said lets build one that's fancier..14 tons of gold to guild the ceilings along and the crystal stair case and chandeliers are magnificent. A must see. We had a private tour of the palace so for me I cannot comment on lines or waits which was super nice since it was incredibly hot the day we visited. read more

Great palace! But very expensive. It is better to come at morning.

The Versailles of Turkey. My favorite historical attraction in Istanbul. Easy 2+ hours strolling around the immaculate gardens and grounds of this palace that is along the water. Museum portion was well done with droves of information and clear direction or flow for visitors moving through the rooms of the palace. Neoclassical architecture, gilded chandeliers and abundant mirrors give it a heavy European vibe. This was one of the more family-friendly places to visit in Istanbul. read more