Guided Tour

Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem- Small group Tour

Activity provider:
Embark on a journey through time to the Ottoman Empire in Istanbul! Rediscover history on this tour, which includes entry tickets. Explore the Hagia Irene Museum, Topkapi Palace, and Topkapi Palace Harem with a guide, and create an unforgettable experience.

About this activity

Duration 3 hours

Check availability to see starting times

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Live tour guide

English, Turkish

Instant Confirmation

Mobile ticketing

Skip the ticket line

Small group

Highlights

  • Embark a journey through the captivating history of Ottoman architecture with a local guide accompanying you on the tour
  • Seize the opportunity to explore the Harem section and listen to the intriguing stories of the concubines.
  • Take a journey through time as you witness Ottoman handmade Iznik tiles.
  • Delight in the breathtaking view extending from the Sultan's pavilion to the Bosporus.

Full description

Get ready for a journey through the buildings of history accompanied by a local guide. With this tour, you will explore Topkapi Palace, the Harem, and Hagia Irene Museum, immersing yourself in the traces of the Ottoman Empire. Thanks to the included tickets, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience without having to wait in line for entry to the sites.

Meet your guide and take a short walk to the historic palace, dating back to the 15th century, featuring four interconnected courtyards. With the tickets provided by your guide, you'll explore the palace and the Harem without the need to wait.

Starting in the first courtyard, which houses a bakery, hospital, and the executioner's fountain, your guide will share all the details of history with you. Continue your journey with the second courtyard, which includes the empire council, kitchen, and Harem.

The Ottoman Treasury, showcasing remarkable artifacts such as the world's largest diamond (86 carats) and a gold and emerald-adorned dagger crafted for the Iranian Shah, will add unforgettable moments to your tour. You'll also have the chance to see sacred items like Moses' staff, David's sword, and Abraham's cooking pan.

Reach the final courtyard, where you'll witness pavilions constructed as rewards for victorious Sultans, offering a breathtaking view of the Bosporus and the Golden Horn.

On your way out, visit the palace kitchen and explore ceramics from different regions around the world. The tour concludes with a visit to the Hagia Irene Church Museum, which served as the arsenal of the palace for centuries.

Includes

  • Licensed guide
  • Walking tour
  • Topkapi Palace entry ticket
  • Topkapi Palace Harem entry ticket
  • Hagia Irene Museum entry ticket
  • Skip-the-line privileges
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Foods and drinks
  • Gratuity

Meeting point

Fountain Sultan Ahmed III

The meeting point is just behind the Hagia Sofia at the main entrance of the Topkapi Palace.

Important information

  • Please provide a contact mobile number