English
English
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Dolmabahce Museum
- Dolmabahce Clock Tower
- Dolmabahce Palace Harem
- History
- Architecture
- Inside
- Dolmabahce Mosque
- Dolmabahce Palace Garden
Dolmabahce Palace Guided Tours
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
START POINT
Dolmabahçe Clock Tower
The Dolmabahçe Clock Tower, located outside Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul, Turkey, was commissioned by Ottoman Sultan Abdülhamid II and designed by the court architect Sarkis Balyan. It was built between 1890 and 1895.
1 minute
1
Dolmabahce Palace
Tickets included
Guided tour
41 minutes
2
END POINT
Dolmabahçe Clock Tower
- Save big with this combo as you explore the brilliant architecture of the Dolmabahce Palace and cruise under the pleasant sun on the Bosphorus Strait.
- Skip the lines at the palace and explore its impressive blend of Ottoman, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles with your English-speaking guide.
- Roam around at your own pace and access the Harem section while listening to your multilingual audioguide.
- Go to the pier for your cruise and enjoy marvelous sights along the European and Asian coastline while tuning in to the audio guide app.
- Enjoy the scenic Bosphorus cruise, passing by Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge.
- Save big with this combo as you explore the brilliant architecture of the Dolmabahce Palace and cruise under the pleasant sun on the Bosphorus Strait.
- Skip the lines at the palace and explore its impressive blend of Ottoman, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles with your English-speaking guide.
- Roam around at your own pace and access the Harem section while listening to your multilingual audioguide.
- Go to the pier for your cruise and enjoy marvelous sights along the European and Asian coastline while tuning in to the audio guide app.
- Enjoy the scenic Bosphorus cruise, passing by Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge.
Inclusions
Dolmabahce Palace
- 15-min Dolmabahce Palace Highlights Tour
- English-speaking guide
- Skip the line admission to Dolmabahce Palace
- Access to the Harem section
- Unlimited stay inside the palace
- Audio guide in 15 languages
Bosphorus Cruise
- 75-min cruise on the Bosphorus Strait
- Audio guide app in 9 languages
Exclusions
- Transfer between the palace and the pier
- Tip: April to May and Sept to Nov are the best months to visit Istanbul, the weather is more pleasant, the crowds are thinner and the city is alive with many festivals.
Dolmabahce Palace
- An ID is required to access the free audio guide at the Dolmabahce Palace.
- The Dolmabahce Palace audio guide is available in 15 languages.
- Note that during the winter season (November 1 to March 31), the palace opens around 9am and closes around 4pm.
- Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays.
Bosphorus Crusie
- The audio guide app for the Bosphorus Cruise is only accessible on Android version 10 or later.
- The audio guide is available in 9 languages: English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.6
90 ratings
61
23
3
1
2
Guests from Romania, United States, Spain and over 14 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Isabel
May 2025Verified booking
This is my advice to future visitors not to miss this palace because it is truly awe-inspiring.
View original review in Spanish
Sayeh
Jun 2025Verified booking
Branko
May 2025Verified booking
Shajeer
Apr 2025Verified booking
Estibaliz
Apr 2025Verified booking
Zulfiya
Apr 2025Verified booking
Sheheryar
Dec 2024Verified booking
MITSUYA
Nov 2024Verified booking
The QR code hadn't arrived even the day before, so I called to confirm and was told that it would be sent within 20 minutes, and we were able to successfully obtain the QR code. We arrived at Dolmabahce Palace at 9am, and it wasn't very crowded yet, so we didn't really benefit from the skip-the-line ticket (the security gate wasn't very crowded at that time, but there were huge people lining up around 12:30 when we were leaving). The Bosphorus cruise was properly announced in advance, so we were able to easily find the boarding point, and we were fortunatelely able to board it in just before the cruise departed, so we were able to enjoy the cruise without waiting.
Susanne
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide Brushca was knowledgeable and good hundred and waited for us when we were late!
Katia
Nov 2024Verified booking
Karen
Nov 2024Verified booking
Vanessa
Nov 2024Verified booking
andreea
Oct 2024Verified booking
Iryna
Oct 2024Verified booking
Scuturici
Oct 2024Verified booking
Ahmed
Oct 2024Verified booking
Timofte
Oct 2024Verified booking
Whitney
Oct 2024Verified booking
Pop
Sep 2024Verified booking
Aymen
Nov 2024Verified booking
Sandra
Oct 2024Verified booking
Hanieh
Jul 2024Verified booking
Tha palace was awesome! We spent a lot of time there Also there was many places to visit. We also enjoyed the cruise.
Fernando
Jun 2024Verified booking
One I found where to get the QR codes , it was simple and easy
Laura
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Combo (Save 20%): Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Show + Dolmabahce Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets
from €89.90
€72.10
20% off
- Combine a 3-hour Bosphorus cruise and skip-the-line access to Dolmabahce Palace for a budget-friendly adventure, perfect for busy travelers.
- Sail the Bosphorus, savor an authentic mezze platter with fava beans and barbecue, and enjoy unlimited drinks as you soak in Istanbul's beauty.
- See folk dances like the sword and shield dance dating back to pre-Ottoman times as you sail past Ottoman gems like the Rumeli Fortress and the Ortakoy Mosque.
- Explore Dolmabahce at your own pace with an audio guide unlocking the stories behind the handmade Hereke carpets and gold-leaf ceilings.
- Climb the Crystal Staircase, a masterpiece of Baccarat crystal, and visit the Harem section for a glimpse into the Sultan's private world.
- Combine a 3-hour Bosphorus cruise and skip-the-line access to Dolmabahce Palace for a budget-friendly adventure, perfect for busy travelers.
- Sail the Bosphorus, savor an authentic mezze platter with fava beans and barbecue, and enjoy unlimited drinks as you soak in Istanbul's beauty.
- See folk dances like the sword and shield dance dating back to pre-Ottoman times as you sail past Ottoman gems like the Rumeli Fortress and the Ortakoy Mosque.
- Explore Dolmabahce at your own pace with an audio guide unlocking the stories behind the handmade Hereke carpets and gold-leaf ceilings.
- Climb the Crystal Staircase, a masterpiece of Baccarat crystal, and visit the Harem section for a glimpse into the Sultan's private world.
Inclusions
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
- 3-hour Bosphorus cruise
- 3-course dinner (menu here)
- Unlimited soft drinks
- Turkish night & live entertainment
- Free Wi-Fi on board
- Private & reserved table
Dolmabahce Palace
- Skip-the-line entry to Dolmabahce Palace
- Audio guide in English, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, French, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish
- Entry to Harem section
- Entry to the Painting Museum
Exclusions
Dolmabahce Palace
- Entry to Clock Museum
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
- Tip: If you crave a quieter moment during the dinner show, head to the bow of the boat to enjoy the Bosphorus breeze and unobstructed views of Istanbul.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- Dietary needs such as vegetarian, pescetarian, and halal can be accommodated.
Dolmabahce Palace
- Tip: Head towards the balcony at the back of the Muahede Hall for views of the Bosphorus and the Kabatas district.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.7
2,245 ratings
1.7K
451
62
14
34
Guests from United States, United Kingdom, Romania and over 74 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Barbara
Apr 2025Verified booking
The booking went quickly and smoothly. Admission without any waiting time! Great audio guide. There were no long queues in the palace, no crowds. We were able to see everything in peace and quiet. A beautiful palace that you absolutely have to see! Highly recommended!
View original review in German
Ramona
Apr 2025Verified booking
Beside the impressive halls, It was useful to learn a bit about the country's history. I recommend to all turists to get the audio guide. I rated Good and not Awesome because we were not allowed to take pictures inside the palace.
Edina
Mar 2025Verified booking
It was very easy and quick with no stressful waiting times and best prices for tickets 🎫. Thank you
View original review in German
Silvia
Jun 2025Verified booking
Beautiful palace, I wish more rooms were open to which we were not allowed access. We arrived and entered without having to wait for anything.
View original review in Spanish
Doreen
Jun 2025Verified booking
No explanations about the area we passed, main focus on live performance which was nice, the artists did a great job, music was way too loud
MARIA
May 2025Verified booking
A wonderful way to end our trip in Istanbul. We had a great time and a great dinner. To repeat! Highly recommended!
View original review in Spanish
Alisha
May 2025Verified booking
The performances were beautiful and the team was hospitable. Very quick in replying to any queries I had. It was indeed a lovely experience
Miguel
May 2025Verified booking
They tried to scammed me. Charging me more for a beer and a wine for mi wife. They told me not cards allowed but i saw people paying with them. Only cash they said Then his maths didn't work, we wanted me to payed 1,500 tyr and changed the price of the beer and wine until it was 1,500
Harshad
May 2025Verified booking
The food was really good, unlike the other cruise dinners I have experienced previously. The entertainment was excellent. The cruise ship was well maintained.
Jerzy
May 2025Verified booking
Interesting interiors and gardens. The downside is the lack of photo opportunities inside. When buying a ticket it was not said in which languages are the audio guides and then, at the entrance it turned out that Polish is not available.Scam is skip the line because you stand in line. The queue for tickets is small and labo not at all because everyone buys online. No descriptions of the rooms in the palace.
This review is translated. Show original review.
PATRICIA
Apr 2025Verified booking
The speed, the QR, makes everything easier. The self-guide, very complete. The Palace, very beautiful. And the possibility of entering at the time you want, or the possibility of entering another day, makes the experience a very pleasant visit. I will buy tickets from you again. Thank you.
View original review in Spanish
Frederico
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
Loved the cruise and the views around the Bhosphorus. It is cheaper if you book online and the management arranges for your pick up and drop off if you have chosen the package with the transfer option. The meal was nice, drinks were unlimited and we loved the entertainment. It is a bit expensive but I would definitely recommend trying this.
Patrizia
Apr 2025Verified booking
The visit to the Palace was very nice, but there were difficulties with the voucher, which was not sent to me by e-mail or whatsApp. However, as I had the booking confirmation, a very nice palace official at the entrance helped me to get the QR code to gain access.
View original review in German
Tapani
Apr 2025Verified Partner Review
The tour was amazing, staff was also friendly , great vibes around, we had a great time and we will definitely do it again!
Malcolm
Mar 2025Verified Partner Review
I am excited with a trip!Dinner was tasty, our waiter Yunus was very kind, friendly and funny! As well there was a show program, and live music)Amazing see view of Bosforus and shining city at the evening! Thank you so much!
Norman
Jun 2025Verified booking
I understand why the Sultan preferred it to Topkapi.
Tatiana
May 2025Verified booking
Everything was good. No problems! Thank you!
Maha
May 2025Verified booking
French audio guide and tour organization.
View original review in French
Ng
May 2025Verified booking
The whole site is amazing, plenty of content to see.
Olivia
May 2025Verified booking
So easy to get in - no queue and very interesting tour - with headphones.
Alessandra
May 2025Verified booking
Perfect organization Everything as described
View original review in Italian
Keren
May 2025Verified booking
Not rushed seeing palace Audio guide useful
Violeta
May 2025Verified booking
The beauty of this palace was breathtaking. The views and the atmosphere were spectacular.
Sidra
May 2025Verified booking
Beautiful day spent at this beautiful place
Linda
Apr 2025Verified booking
Beautiful palace and audioguide enhanced the experience
Build your perfect Istanbul adventure by picking 2 to 9 attractions, from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to cultural gems like a hammam or dervish show.
- Everything you get: Access to top landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace (choose 2-4 based on your pass), guided tours including the Asian side walking tour and hop-on hop-off bus, cultural experiences like a Turkish bath or Dervish ceremony, a Blue Mosque tour, Bosphorus dinner cruise, a 5-ride transportation card, multilingual audio guides for all attractions, a digital guidebook, and a city map to navigate it all.
- Why choose this: Enjoy seamless access with one easy pass that covers guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, and a 5-ride public transport card for getting around the city. Choose the Premium Pass to visit 4 attractions or go all in with the Deluxe Pass to unlock 9 of the city’s best, with all tickets delivered straight to your inbox.
Build your perfect Istanbul adventure by picking 2 to 9 attractions, from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to cultural gems like a hammam or dervish show.
- Everything you get: Access to top landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace (choose 2-4 based on your pass), guided tours including the Asian side walking tour and hop-on hop-off bus, cultural experiences like a Turkish bath or Dervish ceremony, a Blue Mosque tour, Bosphorus dinner cruise, a 5-ride transportation card, multilingual audio guides for all attractions, a digital guidebook, and a city map to navigate it all.
- Why choose this: Enjoy seamless access with one easy pass that covers guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, and a 5-ride public transport card for getting around the city. Choose the Premium Pass to visit 4 attractions or go all in with the Deluxe Pass to unlock 9 of the city’s best, with all tickets delivered straight to your inbox.
Inclusions
- Landmarks & Palaces: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, & Dolmabahce Palace (choose 2/4/9 depending on your pass tier)
- Guided tours: Asian side walking tour & hop-on hop-off bus tour (based on your pass tier)
- Cultural experiences: Turkish bath or hammam experience & Dervish ceremony (based on your pass tier)
- Blue Mosque guided tour
- Bosphorus dinner cruise
- 5-ride Istanbul transportation card
- Multilingual audio guides for all attractions
- Digital guidebook
- City, tram, and metro map
- Get the list of included attractions here.
- All activities are open-entry with no reservations required; only the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise needs to be booked in advance.
- Your pass is valid for 7 consecutive days starting from the first time you use it.
- You’re free to visit multiple attractions each day, but each attraction can only be accessed once with your pass.
- Skip-the-line access is included, but security checks still apply at all venues.
- The multilingual audio guides are available offline, so you don't have to rely on a spotty signal.
- The included transport card can be used across trams, ferries, buses, and metros—no need to buy separate tickets, but make sure to validate your card at necessary stops.
- The digital guidebook includes curated tips and navigation shortcuts between included attractions, helping you plan smarter and save time.
- Access to the main prayer hall on the ground floor of the Hagia Sophia is restricted for tourists. You can only visit the upper floor visiting area.
- The Asian side walking tour is one of the best ways to see a non-touristy, authentic side of Istanbul. It's slower-paced and culturally rich.
- The upper deck of hop-on-hop-off buses offers the best views across the Bosphorus Bridge.
- Choose traditional hammams for a more authentic experience.
- Opt for evening Dervish sessions for a quieter, more atmospheric setting, and sit closer to the front for a better view of the whirling ritual.
- The window seats fill up fast on cruises; arrive early to grab the best spots.
- Your selected attraction tickets will be sent via email. If you’ve chosen the Deluxe Pass, you’ll receive tickets for all included experiences.
- Show the PDF tickets on your phone, or print a physical copy if you prefer.
- You can edit your chosen list of attractions anytime, and cancel your pass free of charge up to one day before your chosen start date.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.2
145 ratings
75
45
12
6
7
Guests from France, United States, Spain and over 30 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Rui
Apr 2025Verified booking
We enjoyed the 5 visits and the cruise, all works well. The delivery of the Istambul Kart made us lose a lot of time, because in the first day we gone to the Topkapi kiosk exclusively to receive our Istambul Kart as wright in the papers we received. They told us that now the point of delivery changed and we must go to the Dsign Café near Blue Mosque. Since we are going to Grand Bazar on foot it was not convenient to go there. In the afternoon we gone there exclusively to receive the card but no one from Megapasss was there. In next day we visited Topkapi Palace and at the kiosk they told us to go there after the visiting. At last we could have our Istambul Kart. This change was very inconvenient and Megappas should have told us about that alteration when we bought the Megapass.
Letizia
May 2025Verified booking
Useful skip-the-line admissions..nice guided tour of the Blue Mosque even if only in English..
View original review in Italian
Elier
Jun 2025Verified booking
Marco
Jun 2025Verified booking
Emma
Jun 2025Verified booking
LE
Jun 2025Verified booking
Jeanne
Jun 2025Verified booking
Louis
May 2025Verified booking
Zoltan
May 2025Verified booking
De
May 2025Verified booking
Salome
May 2025Verified booking
MARÍA
May 2025Verified booking
giulio
May 2025Verified booking
Natalia
May 2025Verified booking
Hafize
May 2025Verified booking
Lavinia
Apr 2025Verified booking
Małgorzata
Apr 2025Verified booking
Martin
Apr 2025Verified booking
Thomas
Apr 2025Verified booking
Stefano
Apr 2025Verified booking
Taija
Apr 2025Verified booking
GOUDEMAND
Apr 2025Verified booking
MADELYN
Apr 2025Verified booking
Elisabeth
Mar 2025Verified booking
Mar 2025Verified booking
Combo (Save 10%): Dolmabahçe Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
from €82.40
€74.48
10% off
- Experience Ottoman splendor and Byzantine heritage with this cost-effective combo that offers skip-the-line access to both Dolmabahçe Palace and Hagia Sophia.
- Step into the royal world of Ottoman sultans at Dolmabahçe Palace, with a multilingual audio guide, and discover the 285-room palace and the royal box.
- Enjoy the palace's opulence as you ascend the crystal staircase to the Ceremonial Hall and explore the vibrant Ottoman culture depicted in the Red Room.
- Journey through time at the Hagia Sophia, which was once the world's largest place of worship, and marvel at its imperial dome and mesmerizing mosaics.
- With skip-the-line access to the 2nd-floor Visitors' Center at Hagia Sophia, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace.
- Experience Ottoman splendor and Byzantine heritage with this cost-effective combo that offers skip-the-line access to both Dolmabahçe Palace and Hagia Sophia.
- Step into the royal world of Ottoman sultans at Dolmabahçe Palace, with a multilingual audio guide, and discover the 285-room palace and the royal box.
- Enjoy the palace's opulence as you ascend the crystal staircase to the Ceremonial Hall and explore the vibrant Ottoman culture depicted in the Red Room.
- Journey through time at the Hagia Sophia, which was once the world's largest place of worship, and marvel at its imperial dome and mesmerizing mosaics.
- With skip-the-line access to the 2nd-floor Visitors' Center at Hagia Sophia, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace.
Inclusions
Dolmabahçe Palace
- Skip-the-line entry to Dolmabahçe Palace
- Audio guide in 10 languages
- Access to the Harem
Hagia Sofia
- Skip the ticket line to Hagia Sophia
- Entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
- 10% discount at Dsign Cafe
- Downloadable self-guided audio tour in English, Spanish, French, German & Italian
Dolmabahçe Palace
- Tip: Don't forget to explore Imperial Palace, the private quarters of the Sultan’s family, which offer a glimpse into the more personal side of palace life.
- Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed at the venue.
- This experience is wheelchair accessible, except for the upper floors.
- Opt for modest attire to respect the site's decorum.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Admire the ornate mihrab as a focal point in the prayer hall, indicating the direction of Mecca.
- You skip the ticket lines but you cannot skip the security check.
- The security check can take up to 60 minutes during peak seasons.
- The prayer area on the first floor can only be entered by Turkish citizens.
- Women are required to cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. Hair should be partially covered with a scarf.
- Men are required to cover their knees and shoulders.
- If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (A scarf is €2 and a body cover is €3).
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Due to the Friday prayer, the Mosque will be closed to tourists from 12pm to 2pm. For a smoother experience, it's recommend visiting after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.5
1,558 ratings
959
468
66
23
42
Guests from United States, Spain, Italy and over 75 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Barbara
Apr 2025Verified booking
The booking went quickly and smoothly. Admission without any waiting time! Great audio guide. There were no long queues in the palace, no crowds. We were able to see everything in peace and quiet. A beautiful palace that you absolutely have to see! Highly recommended!
View original review in German
Ramona
Apr 2025Verified booking
Beside the impressive halls, It was useful to learn a bit about the country's history. I recommend to all turists to get the audio guide. I rated Good and not Awesome because we were not allowed to take pictures inside the palace.
Edina
Mar 2025Verified booking
It was very easy and quick with no stressful waiting times and best prices for tickets 🎫. Thank you
View original review in German
Silvia
Jun 2025Verified booking
Beautiful palace, I wish more rooms were open to which we were not allowed access. We arrived and entered without having to wait for anything.
View original review in Spanish
Jerzy
May 2025Verified booking
Interesting interiors and gardens. The downside is the lack of photo opportunities inside. When buying a ticket it was not said in which languages are the audio guides and then, at the entrance it turned out that Polish is not available.Scam is skip the line because you stand in line. The queue for tickets is small and labo not at all because everyone buys online. No descriptions of the rooms in the palace.
This review is translated. Show original review.
PATRICIA
Apr 2025Verified booking
The speed, the QR, makes everything easier. The self-guide, very complete. The Palace, very beautiful. And the possibility of entering at the time you want, or the possibility of entering another day, makes the experience a very pleasant visit. I will buy tickets from you again. Thank you.
View original review in Spanish
Patrizia
Apr 2025Verified booking
The visit to the Palace was very nice, but there were difficulties with the voucher, which was not sent to me by e-mail or whatsApp. However, as I had the booking confirmation, a very nice palace official at the entrance helped me to get the QR code to gain access.
View original review in German
Norman
Jun 2025Verified booking
I understand why the Sultan preferred it to Topkapi.
Tatiana
May 2025Verified booking
Everything was good. No problems! Thank you!
Maha
May 2025Verified booking
French audio guide and tour organization.
View original review in French
Ng
May 2025Verified booking
The whole site is amazing, plenty of content to see.
Olivia
May 2025Verified booking
So easy to get in - no queue and very interesting tour - with headphones.
Alessandra
May 2025Verified booking
Perfect organization Everything as described
View original review in Italian
Keren
May 2025Verified booking
Not rushed seeing palace Audio guide useful
Violeta
May 2025Verified booking
The beauty of this palace was breathtaking. The views and the atmosphere were spectacular.
Sidra
May 2025Verified booking
Beautiful day spent at this beautiful place
Linda
Apr 2025Verified booking
Beautiful palace and audioguide enhanced the experience
Natalija
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great tour! You need to take an audio guide. It takes you nicely through the entire palace and the surrounding area.
Dardan
Mar 2025Verified booking
I had no audio guide
View original review in Italian
Michèle
Mar 2025Verified booking
A very worthwhile tour with audio guide, was really great. Totally recommended and worth the money.
View original review in German
Maurice
Jun 2025Verified booking
MARIA
Jun 2025Verified booking
Pamela
Jun 2025Verified booking
Marielys
Jun 2025Verified booking
Ludovica
Jun 2025Verified booking
Dolmabahçe PalaceGuided Tours
Make the most of Istanbul
Why take a Dolmabahce Palace guided tour?
- Expert insights: When you purchase guided tours, an expert tour guide accompanies you throughout your tour. They share interesting anecdotes, local legends, and historical details, that you may not have known before.
- Skip-the-line access: The biggest advantage of booking guided tours is that you enjoy skip-the-line privileges. You do not have to wait around in long queues and can spend more time exploring the palace's interiors.
- Understand the historical significance: Booking a guided tour will help you understand the rich history and cultural nuances of the different rooms in the Dolmabahce Palace.
- Navigate efficiently: When you book a guided tour, you do not have to worry about navigating around the palace, the logistics of booking, or if you will get to see the attraction. Your spot will be reserved upon payment confirmation.
- Meet like-minded travelers: In a guided tour, you are more likely to interact with other visitors. It is ideal for travelers who want to build connections or meet new people.
Which Dolmabahce Palace guided tour is best for you?
Skip-the-line guided tours
Suited for: Visitors who want to explore in depth
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Ticket price: from €35
Why go for it?
- Skip-the-line guided tour tickets allow you to bypass long queues and directly enter Dolmabahce Palace, giving you more time to explore it.
- The expert English-speaking tour guide accompanying you will share interesting stories and anecdotes about the history, significance, and artifacts of Dolmabahce Palace, enriching your experience.
- With these tickets, you can enjoy a comprehensive experience by visiting all the important attractions inside the palace.
Recommended tour:
Combo guided tours
Suited for: Visitors who have limited time or are on a budget
Duration: 3 hours or more in total
Ticket price: from €45
Why go for it?
- With combo guided tours, you can explore in depth many of Istanbul's top landmarks under one ticket, making them a cost-effective option. You also get a comprehensive tour of these places, ensuring you don't miss out on any significant attractions.
- Along with Dolmabahce Palace, you also get to experience other top attractions like Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, and a Bosphorus cruise.
Recommended tours:
Highlights covered on Dolmabahce Palace guided tours
Clock Tower
You must climb up the Dolmabahce Clock Tower for mesmerizing views of the palace and its surrounding areas. It has an elegant face with beautiful engravings and intricate decorations on its surface.
Dolmabahce Clock Tower
Dolmabahce Mosque
The Dolmabahce Mosque, built with both Baroque and Ottoman elements, was designed to rival the splendor of the Hagia Sophia. It was different from the other Ottoman mosques because of its opulent decorations.
Dolmabahce Mosque
Atatürk's Room
Ataturk’s Room was the official residence of the founder of modern Turkey. It has been preserved the way he liked it, including his books, and personal belongings, with even the clock displaying 9:05 AM when he passed away.
Sufera Salon (Blue Hall)
The Sufera Salon, also known as the Blue Hall for its intricate white and blue tilework, was Sultan’s reception hall. It is filled with opulent gold decorations and showcases the luxurious lifestyle of the Sultans.
Mabeyn-i Humayun
Mabeyn-i-Humayun, also known as the Imperial Suite, was used by the Sultan for his daily activities. However, this room also features opulent decorations, ornate ceilings, and marble floors.
Muayede
The Muayede has been known to host several important events that shaped Turkey’s history. Like every other grand hall in the palace, this room also features gilded columns, intricate tilework, and crystal chandeliers.
Pink Hall
The Pink Hall, also known as the Valide Sultan Divanhanesi, was used to receive noble visitors. It has beautiful paintings, fancy tilework, and a unique style of carpeting across the entire floor called Hereke.
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Medhal Hall
The Medhal Hall acts as the main entrance hall of the Dolmabahce Palace. It has a grand staircase, crystal chandeliers, and ornate ceilings, designed to impress visitors and show off the grandiosity of the Ottoman Sultans.
Frequently asked questions about Dolmabahce Palace guided tours
Can I book a Dolmabahce Palace guided tour?
Yes, you can book Dolmabahce Palace guided tours. They are a great way to learn more about Istanbul’s rich heritage and culture.
How can I book a Dolmabahce Palace guided tour?
We recommend you book Dolmabahce Palace guided tours online to save time and money. Booking tickets online is also more convenient as you can reserve your spot in advance from the comfort of your home.
How much does a Dolmabahce Palace guided tour cost?
Dolmabahce Palace guided tours start from €35. You can upgrade your tickets to include combo offers like access to Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, or include a Bosphorus Cruise.
What are the different types of Dolmabahce Palace guided tours?
You can explore Dolmabahce Palace with skip-the-line guided tours or combo guided tours. Audio guides are also available in up to 10 languages, allowing you to gain a thorough understanding of this palace's rich history.
What is included in Dolmabahce Palace guided tours?
A typical Dolmabahce Palace guided tour includes skip-the-line access to the palace, an expert English-speaking tour guide, an audio guide in either English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, or Chinese, entrance to the Harem section, as well as entry to the Painting Museum. You can also stroll through the palace gardens.
In what languages are the Dolmabahce Palace guided tours?
When you book Dolmabahce Palace guided tours, an English-speaking tour guide will accompany you throughout the tour. You can also access an audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese.
Is booking a Dolmabahce Palace guided tour worth it?
Yes, if you are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the blend of Ottoman and European styles, how this architecture is an important reminder of Istanbul’s multi-faceted political history, and how Ottoman Sultans went about their lives, the Dolmabahce Palace is a must-visit for you.
Do the Dolmabahce Palace guided tours include skip-the-line access?
Yes, when you book Dolmabahce Palace guided tours, you can enjoy skip-the-line benefits as well. You do not have to stand in long queues and can spend more time exploring the opulent interiors.
Can I cancel a booked Dolmabahce Palace guided tour?
Yes, if you have booked your Dolmabahce Palace guided tours online, you can cancel them up to 24 hours before the experience begins to get a full refund on your purchase.
How long is the Dolmabahce Palace guided tour?
The Dolmabahce Palace guided tours come with a flexible duration. After 15 minutes of roaming the palace interiors with a tour guide, you can explore the interiors of the palace on your own with an audio guide. The audio guide is available in 10 languages and is included in your tour ticket.
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From happy customers
Pedro
Jun, 2025
Very good service.
Very good price.
Personalized attention and very nice flight with an excellent pilot.
Highly recommended.
Thank you very much for the attention.
View original review in Spanish
Cappadocia Goreme Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Tour with Breakfast & Transfer
Barbara
Apr, 2025
The booking went quickly and smoothly. Admission without any waiting time! Great audio guide. There were no long queues in the palace, no crowds. We were able to see everything in peace and quiet. A beautiful palace that you absolutely have to see! Highly recommended!
View original review in German
Dolmabahçe Palace & Harem Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
Ramona
RomaniaApr, 2025
Beside the impressive halls, It was useful to learn a bit about the country's history.
I recommend to all turists to get the audio guide.
I rated Good and not Awesome because we were not allowed to take pictures inside the palace.
Dolmabahçe Palace & Harem Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
Tsvetelina
Jul, 2022
Our tour guide Hakan was awesome! The service was great, the balance of guided tours excellent for the price we paid. The best information packet and cards were delivered on time and gave ample instructions on redemption. Smooth, simple and god value! Will highly recommend to friends
Istanbul Pass with Access to Top Attractions
Giorgia
ItalyApr, 2024
The building is really wonderful, with a view of the sea. Breathtaking 😍
However, the guide was half an hour late because the road was busy, but this is a known thing:
if a customer arrives late he loses money, if the guide makes the customer lose half an hour nothing happens.... when he arrived, he was very hasty, explained two things about the garden (which I had already read on Wikipedia) and then left, so I found his presence useful only for the purpose of queue-jumping.
View original review in Italian
Small Group Guided Tour of Dolmabahce Palace & Harem with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Nada
SerbiaOct, 2023
Thank you again for great experience. Tour guide and your customer centre was very kind and helpful answering all Our questions. Dolmabahce is amazing palace and i would recommend everyone who come to Istanbul to visit. It's a must.
Small Group Guided Tour of Dolmabahce Palace & Harem with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Francesca
Jun, 2024
The celerity in entering the attractions by skipping the line .
The audio guide for Topkapi Palace did not work, only the one for Saint Sophia
View original review in Italian
Combo Guided Tours with Entry Tickets: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern
Sara
May, 2024
Bene: Headout ha fornito le entrate e ha permesso di saltare la fila, come descritto nell'offerta di acquisto.
Male: nella descrizione dell'offerta si parlava di audioguida compresa sia per Aya Sofia che per Topkapi, mentre ho ricevuto l'audioguida solo per Aya Sofia.
Organizzazione migliorabile: era chiaro solo il punto di incontro del primo giorno, dove da descrizione sembrava ti dessero i biglietti per entrare in autonomia e alle ore desiderate nelle 3 attrazioni acquistate. Invece ogni entrata doveva essere fissata con una guida, con punti di incontro e orari specifici, ma non ben descritti dalle guide stesse. Nel dubbio di perdersi in questa organizzazione non chiara, anche se avevamo acquistato la possibilità di usufruire delle entrate in 3 giorni, abbiamo preferito visitarle tutte e tre in un giorno, e quindi purtroppo più di fretta di quanto avremmo desiderato.
Combo Guided Tours with Entry Tickets: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern