DOLMABAHÇE PALACE
Skip-the-Line Tickets & Tours
Top 2 Bestseller Dolmabahçe Palace Tickets
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the lavish Dolmabache Palace located along the Strait of Istanbul. With fast track admission and audio guides, enjoy an insightful tour of the world-renowned palace! + more details
Experience ultimate convenience with our all-day valid Dolmabahce ticket! Skip the long lines, save up to 1 hour with our fast track entry, and enjoy a free audio guide. Make the most of your visit with total flexibility during opening hours. + more details
Best Selling Dolmabahçe Palace Guided Tour
Save on 2 Istanbul must-dos! Enjoy a Bosphorus dinner cruise with unlimited drinks and skip lines to Dolmabahce Palace, ideal for culture vultures. + more details
Most Preferred Combo Tour
Save loads with this terrific combo including a guided tour of the Dolmabahce Palace and a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul! + more details
Best Value Combo Pass
The MegaPass is covering all top museums in Istanbul like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Harem, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace. Besides these top attractions you enjoy a Bosphorus Cruise, Blue Mosque tour and you can benefit of the Hop On Hop Off Bus, Asian Side walking tour. + more details
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How to Get to Dolmabahçe Palace (Map)
Dolmabahçe Palace is located in the Besiktaş area, on the shores of the Bosphorus, and is ultimately easily accessible.
- From Taksim: The quickest and easiest method to get to Dolmabahçe Palace from Taksim is to walk for around ten minutes to the "Fndıklı Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi" tram station and then take tram line T1. Take three stops to reach the Kabatas station. Only four minutes will pass if you leave from here.
- From Sultanahmet: Take tram T1 from Sultanahmet, and get out at the Kabataş stop after 7 stops. It will just take you 4 minutes to get there from here.
- The best way to get to Dolmabahçe Palace is by taking the tram; it's the cheapest and easiest way, and you'll get to see some of the city as you ride. The nearest tram stations are Kabataş. Is only 7-minute walk away.
Visitor Information for Dolmabahçe Palace
In the heart of Istanbul, where the Bosphorus Strait weaves its tale of a city uniting East and West, stands Dolmabahçe Palace, a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
As the sun casts its golden glow upon the palace's facade, history comes alive, and the whispers of the past beckon visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating narrative woven within these regal walls.
The moment a visitor enters the grand entryway, they are immediately transported into a realm where time appears to have stopped. At the Dolmabahçe Palace, the interiors are a symphony of grandeur, where European elegance and Ottoman splendour come together to create a harmonious whole.
Gold-gilded mouldings and paintings that tell tales of diplomacy, decadence, and political intrigue are illuminated by crystal chandeliers that are suspended like celestial sculptures. These chandeliers shed a gentle radiance across the decorations.
6 Reasons to Visit Dolmabahçe Palace
1. Architectural Marvel: The Dolmabahçe Palace is a magnificent piece of architecture that combines Ottoman, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles. Its rich interiors, many small features, and large gardens make it a must-see for people who love architecture.
2. Opulent Interiors: The palace's interior is decorated with gold leaf, crystal chandeliers, and elaborate mosaics that show how grand the Ottoman Empire was. People can be amazed by the Ceremonial Hall's wealth, the Crystal Staircase's beauty, and the Harem's ornate decorations.
3. Historical Significance: Between 1856 and 1887 and again from 1909 to 1922, Dolmabahçe Palace was the city's main government building. The father of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, lived there from time to time.
4. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's Final Residence: Dolmabahçe Palace is an important part of Turkish history because it was where the respected founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, lived his last days. His bedroom has been kept exactly the same as it was when he died, so people can pay their respects there.
5. Panoramic Bosphorus Views: The palace has amazing views of the Bosphorus Strait, which is the waterway that links the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea. From the terraces and grounds of the palace, people can see the beautiful coastline, the busy ferries, and the skyline of the city.
6. Serene Gardens: There are large, nicely landscaped gardens on the palace grounds that are a peaceful place to get away from the busy city. People can take a walk through the lush greenery, unwind by the fountains, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Dolmabahçe Palace Highlights
Gates
There were high walls surrounding the palace on the land side. The traditional design of Ottoman palaces was initially characterised by the idea of defence walls; however, these walls were utilised in a manner that was entirely different from their original intent in the palace that was built in the 19th century. These walls have a variety of gates that lead out to the outside, and the names of those gates relate to the exteriors or purposes of the buildings. In addition to these gates on the land side, there are five oval iron doors with openwork on the sea side. There are stairs that lead down to the harbour.
Gardens
The Palace Gardens, featuring four gardens: Harem, Bird, Crown, and Selamlık, are a stunning sight to behold. The Dolmabahçe Gardens, a masterpiece of European garden design, offer a serene stroll along marble pools, statues, and geometric hedges. Visitors can also enjoy a plant tour, witness species from Asia and the Americas, and observe peacocks and ducks. The Gardens also house greenhouses, providing an unforgettable view of the Bosphorus. You may go on a plant tour and see everything from magnolia and cedar trees to uncommon species from Asia and the Americas.
Architecture
The magnificent palace's one-of-a-kind design is a major attraction. With a total area of 45,000 square metres, 46 halls, 285 rooms, 6 hammams, and 68 toilets, Dolmabahçe Palace is much larger than the mediaeval Topkapi Palace, which it replaced as the seat of Ottoman sultans. The Dolmabahçe Mosque and the Clock Tower are also here. The famous Ottoman-Armenian architect Garabet Balyan, who was educated in Europe, designed the 600-metre-long building. Its eclectic style combines elements of baroque, rococo, and neoclassical architecture with traditional Ottoman styles.
Clock Tower
In Istanbul, Turkey, the Dolmabahçe Palace clock tower stands out as a remarkable landmark. The magnificent clock tower stands tall at the palace's entrance, overlooking the Bosphorus. During the reign of Sultan Abdulhamid II in the late 19th century, the Dolmabahçe clock tower was constructed. The tower, which the French architect Raymond Charles Pere designed and created in a fusion of neo-baroque and neo-gothic styles, is evidence of the Ottoman Empire's fascination with European architecture and technology. One of the city's most recognisable symbols, the Dolmabahçe Clock Tower, is a major draw for visitors to Istanbul.
Selamlık
Dolmabahçe Palace's official Selamlk section has been exquisitely decorated in a western style. The palace is decorated with antiques from all over Europe, including furniture, paintings, and silk carpets. The Hereke Carpet and Sultan Abdülmecid's royal monogram can be found in the main entrance hall (Medhal Hall). There are porcelain vases, paintings, and French-style furniture in the Clerk's Hall. The largest crystal chandelier in the world can be found in the Ceremonial Hall, which is used for state ceremonies. The Süfera Hall, or Ambassadors' Hall, as it is more commonly known, plays a critical role in diplomatic protocol.
Harem
Dolmabahçe Palace has a harem like Topkapi Palace. As the Sultans and royal family's private residence, the Harem is isolated by the Selamlık section. Separate entrance on the narrow southern wing to Harem. The royal family's apartments in the Harem transport you to Ottoman times. Here are the chambers of the Sultan’s mother, concubines, wives, and favourites of the sultan. A very important room in the palace, especially for the Turkish people, is in the harem. The Room of Atatürk, who died on November 10, 1938, spent his final days in a bedroom in the former harem. All palace clocks are set for 09:05, Ataturk's death time.
Should I Buy my Dolmabahçe Palace Ticket on-site or online?
You can visit the harem, gardens and painting museum sections of Dolmabahçe Palace with a Museum Card. If you do not have a Museum Card, MegaPass or any other Istanbul City Pass, visiting the Dolmabahçe Palace can be challenging, as it's one of the most crowded tourist destinations in Istanbul. Here are a few reasons why you should buy your guided tour ticket online:
Buy on-site for spontaneous visits but expect lines and limited availability during peak times.
- Skip the Lines: Online ticket purchases offer skip lines, flexible timing, and instant confirmation, making them attractive to those seeking an effortless visit.
-Provide Exclusive Discounts: To buy tickets online, visit the official website or trusted platforms that can provide exclusive discounts. It’s true splendour remains hidden without an expert guide; booking a guided tour online ensures you won't miss out on the rich history, extraordinary architecture, and intriguing stories of this immersive structure.
Online booking makes exploring Dolmabahçe Palace's historical wonders easy.
Plan Your Visit to Dolmabahçe Palace
Opening Hours and Timing
Visiting Hours: Dolmabahçe Palace Museum can be visited between 09.00 and 17.00.
Closing Days: Dolmabahçe Palace is closed every Monday.
In addition, the palace is closed on New Year's Day, the first day of Ramadan, and the first day of the Sacrifice Feast.
An average visit to the Dolmabahçe palace takes 4
to 5 hours due to its size and splendour.
>>> Click here for more information about visiting hours
Things to Know Before Visiting the Dolmabahçe Palace
Do I Need a Guided Tour to Visit Dolmabahçe Palace ?
You do not necessarily need a guided tour if you know the history of the building. While having prior knowledge of Dolmabahçe Palace is certainly beneficial, opting for a guided tour opens up invaluable benefits:
The Advantages of a Guided Tour
As you think about your choices, think about what you're interested in, how much time you have, and how much experience you want.
A guided tour is probably the best option if you're a history enthusiast or want a more in-depth exploration. Exploring independently, on the other hand, may suit your style if you prefer a leisurely, self-paced visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolmabahçe Palace
Being one of the largest palace in Turkey, you should at least plan 3 to 4 hours to visit Dolmabahçe Palace. If you want to see all parts of the palace, you should expect 4 - 5hours.
>> For more additional information
Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecit I ordered that the Dolmabahçe Palace be built, and it was finished in 1856.
Dolmabahçe Palace is situated on the shores of the Bosphorus in the Besiktas district. The easiest way to get there is to take tram T1 from Sultanahmet and get off at Kabataş station, which is 7 stops away. It only takes 4 minutes from here. From Taksim, the best way to get there is to walk for 10 minutes to the "Fındıklı Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi" tram stop and take line T1. Take the third train to the Kabataş station. It only takes 4 minutes from here. >> For more additional information
It is clear that the Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most important landmarks in Istanbul and that everyone should see it. The historical palace is now a museum with over 50,000 items displayed in hundreds of rooms that give visitors a sense of the Ottoman era's grandeur. Inside, people can look at the large collection of ancient European artefacts, fancy furniture, lovely paintings, and hand-knotted silk carpets. Everywhere in the palace you can see gold leaves, marble stairs, and decorations made of glass and crystal. The huge complex has a Harem, two museums (the Clock Museum and the Paintings Museum), a mosque, beautiful gardens, and a clock tower. >> For more additional information
Dolmabahçe Palace is famous for how luxurious it is and how beautiful its architecture is. It appears to be the work of a single person because it combines European Baroque and Ottoman styles. During the last few years of the Ottoman Empire, it was the administrative centre. The building's interior is very fancy, with crystal chandeliers, grand rooms, and intricate details that show how luxurious life was back then.
The cost to enter the Dolmabahçe Palace is around 650 Turkish Lira. For this price, you can enter all three parts of the palace: the main building (Selamlık), the Harem rooms, and the painting museum. You will also receive an audio guide to help you navigate.
>> For more additional information
The T1 tram will take you to Kabatas, where you can either walk for 10 mins. or take a bus to get to Dolmabahçe Palace. It's also possible to take a taxi or a private tour. >> For more additional information
No, you are not allowed to take photos inside Dolmabahçe Palace. However, you can take photos of gardens and exteriors.
In the years between 1856 and 1922, the Ottoman Sultans lived in Dolmabahçe Palace. From time to time, it was also the presidential palace of the Turkish Republic. Atatürk lived and died there. >> For more information about Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
You can either buy a ticket at the door to Dolmabahçe Palace or make a reservation for a tour. There are guided tours of the palace that are available in English and other languages. These tours go into more detail about the palace.
Yes, there is an audio guide that people can use when they visit Dolmabahçe Palace. The audio guide is available in English and several other languages, and it tells you a lot about the palace's history and importance. Audio guides are included in the ticket price for the main building (selamlık). They are available at the entrance upon request.
WhaT OUR VISITORS SAY
About Dolmabahçe Palace
What a great Location the Ottoman Palace has on the seaside! Lots to see including giant crystal chandeliers , paintings , vases,mirrors and so on. You can stroll in its lush gardens decorated by pools. We made use of both the guide and audio guide services along the tour.Visit includes both the main museum and the Harem with painting museum ! Amazing Place ! In short, it is a must -see place during your stay in Istanbul!
Verana - RomaniA
We purchased this tour to complement the attractions included with the Deluxe version of the Istanbul Welcome Card. Everything proceeded like clockwork. Our guide was very personable, he gave us a good introduction about the palace and added lots of practical advice to make sure we are able to make the most of our self-guided visit. After the tour, we ran into him again and he was happy to suggest what else to visit and in what order.
oana - USA
The ticket purchase and subsequent tour was great value for money. The guide was on time and spoke excellent English. The price we paid was significantly less than similar tour providers. Few downsides worth mentioning, the maintenance work at the palace reduced the overall time spent inside it, since many rooms were closed.
Abdullah – Turkey
We met the guide wearing red jacket next to the clock tower as agreed. We enjoyed quick entry to the palace skipping a long line of people since our tour was designated as skip-the -line tour!The guide informed us on everything about the visit!Thank you for such a high quality service!
JAMES -MANCHESTER
Dolmabahçe Palace Visitor Numbers
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