Dolmabahçe Palace Tours

Skip the lines and explore Dolmabahçe Palace with a multilingual audio guide—includes harem, gardens.

• Everything you get: Skip-the-line entry to Dolmabahçe Palace, access to the Selamlık (official quarters), entry to the Harem, entry to the Palace Gardens, 90-minute Bosphorus cruise (optional), multilingual audio guide for both the Palace and the cruise (cruise audio included with combo option), instant activation link for audio access, offline access to all content including audio, text, and maps.
• Why choose this: Skip ahead of long entry lines and explore the Palace at your own pace. Hear stories of sultans, foreign dignitaries, and royal traditions as you move room to room, with detailed insights into Ottoman architecture, daily palace life, and historic events.
• Upgrade: Add a Bosphorus cruise to enjoy Istanbul’s skyline and learn about key landmarks lining the Strait.

Inclusions #

• Skip-the-line entry to Dolmabahçe Palace (all-day access)

• Entry to the Selamlık section (official quarters and ceremonial halls)

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Gardens

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Harem

• 90-minute Bosphorus cruise (included with combo option)

• Multilingual audio guide for both the Palace and the cruise, available in 10+ languages (cruise guide available with combo option)

Exclusions #

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

• Tour guide

What to bring

• Bring a valid ID or passport to collect your audio guide. If you don't have one, you'll need to leave a €200 refundable deposit at the entrance, which will be returned when you return the device at the exit.
• Make sure to wear comfortable footwear, as you’ll be on your feet walking across marble floors and staircases for a while.
• Opt for modest attire to respect the cultural and historical significance of the site.

What’s not allowed

• Photography is strictly prohibited inside the venue, so please keep your camera tucked away.
• The audio guide included with your ticket is the official version issued by Dolmabahçe Palace. Third-party audio guides are not permitted at the venue.

Accessibility

• The ground floor of Dolmabahçe Palace is wheelchair accessible, but the upper floors have limited access.

Additional information

• While this ticket allows you to skip the entry line, all visitors must go through security. During the high season (June to August), the security line may take up to 30 minutes.
• Tickets are sent by email one day before your visit. For same-day bookings, tickets are sent immediately. Be sure to check both your inbox and spam folder.
• Visitors with pre-booked tickets can enter until 4pm.
• Visit on a weekday and arrive soon after opening (around 9am) for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
• A typical visit through the Selamlık, Harem, and gardens takes about one to two hours. Plan for extra time if you’d like to visit the satellite museums or take a break.
• Enjoy tea or snacks at the palace café overlooking the Bosphorus, and browse souvenirs in the palace gift shop.

Skip the lines and explore Dolmabahçe Palace with an audio guide—includes harem, gardens, and a Bosphorus cruise.

• Everything you get at Dolmabahçe Palace**:** Enjoy fast-track entry, then explore the Selamlık, Harem, and palace gardens at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide that brings each space to life.
• Everything you get in your Bosphorus cruise: Set off on a 90-minute journey with quick boarding, a warm welcome from a marine officer, and multilingual commentary that guides you past palaces, mosques, and waterfront neighbourhoods along both shores.
• Why choose this combo: Make sightseeing effortless with easy palace access, time to discover its royal heritage, and a relaxing cruise that showcases Istanbul’s most striking waterfront landmarks.

Inclusions #

Dolmabahce Palace

• Skip-the-line entry to Dolmabahçe Palace

• Multilingual audio guide (available in 10+ languages)

• Access to the Selamlık (official quarters and ceremonial halls)

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Gardens

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Harem

• Unlimited time to explore inside the palace

Bosphorus cruise

• 90-min cruise along the Bosphorus Strait

• Skip-the-line access to the sightseeing boat named Dentur (Turyol boats)

• Multilingual audio guide (available in 9+ languages)

• Meet and greet with a marine officer at Kabataş pier (boarding point)

• Offline map and route plan for the cruise

Exclusions #

• Transfer between the Palace and the pier

• Food and drinks

What to bring

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Present a valid passport or ID at the entrance to receive your audio guide. If you're unable to provide one, you'll need to leave a refundable €200 deposit, which will be given back when you hand in the device at the end of your visit.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the visit involves extended walking across marble floors and climbing stairs.
• Choose modest clothing to respect the site's cultural and historical importance.

Bosphorus cruise

• Evenings on the Bosphorus can get breezy, especially on deck. Bring a light jacket, scarf, or windbreaker to stay comfortable.

What’s not allowed

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Photography is not allowed in the interior areas of the site, so please keep your camera tucked away during your visit.
• Only the official audio guide provided with your ticket is accepted inside. Personal or third-party guide devices are not permitted.

Bosphorus cruise

• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on board.
• Drones and remote-controlled devices are not allowed due to safety and privacy concerns.
• Littering is strictly prohibited—do not throw anything overboard or leave trash on the boat.
• Climbing on railings, seats, or other boat structures is not allowed.

Accessibility

Dolmabahçe Palace

• The ground floor of Dolmabahçe Palace is wheelchair accessible, but the upper floors have limited access.

Bosphorus cruise

• The cruise is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Additional information

Dolmabahçe Palace

• All visitors must pass through a mandatory security check, regardless of ticket type. During the busy summer season, especially from June to August, wait times can reach up to 30 minutes.
• Your ticket will be emailed one day before your visit. If you're booking for the same day, it will be sent immediately—make sure to check both your inbox and spam folder.
• Guests with pre-booked tickets can enter the palace until 4pm.
• For a quieter experience, it's best to visit on a weekday and arrive close to the 9am opening time.
• Exploring the Selamlık, Harem, and gardens usually takes one to two hours. If you want to explore additional exhibits or take a break, consider setting aside extra time.
• You can enjoy light refreshments at the on-site café with Bosphorus views and browse souvenirs at the palace’s gift shop.

Bosphorus cruise

• The starting point for your Bosphorus sightseeing cruise is Kabataş Pier. Please note that you'll need to make your way to Kabataş Pier on your own. The Turyol staff or a marine officer will be available at the pier to help direct you to the correct vessel and answer any quick queries.
• Look out for Turyol boats, your cruise operator, and follow the staff or signage at Kabataş Pier to board the boat named Dentur.
• Plan your cruise between April and early June or from September to early November to enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and clearer skies.
• The Bosphorus cruise tends to get crowded from around 3pm onward, especially between June and August. For a quieter, more relaxed experience, aim to board between 10am and 1pm.
• On your way toward Asia, sit on the right side of the boat; on the return toward Europe, switch to the left for the best perspective of the shoreline.
• The Bosphorus Cruise audio guide app is compatible only with Android devices running version 10 or higher.
• The audio guide is available in 9 languages: English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish.

From royal chambers to river views, see two sides of Istanbul with this all-in-one ticket—Dolmabahçe Palace by day and the Bosphorus by night.

• Everything you get at Dolmabahçe Palace: Bypass the long entry lines and spend the day exploring the grand ceremonial halls, serene waterfront gardens, and historic Harem, supported by a multilingual audio guide that brings each space to life in more than ten languages.
• Everything you get in your Bosphorus cruise: As evening sets in, you will set out along the Bosphorus for a 3-hour journey where a private reserved table awaits with a 4-course dinner, two alcoholic drinks, unlimited soft beverages, and an evening of live entertainment ranging from folk dances and Whirling Dervishes to sword performances and DJ music, all supported by free Wi-Fi onboard.
• Why choose this combo: Skip the booking chaos—wander the grand halls of an Ottoman palace by day, then unwind on a scenic Bosphorus dinner cruise with live shows and local drinks by night.

Inclusions #

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Skip-the-line entry with all-day access

• Entry to the Selamlık section (official quarters and ceremonial halls)

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Gardens

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Harem

• Audio guide in English, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, French, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• 3-hour scenic cruise along the Bosphorus

• 4-course dinner at a private reserved table (menu here)

• Live entertainment, including Turkish folk dance, Whirling Dervishes, sword performances, and DJ music

• 2 glasses of local alcoholic drinks (beers, spirits, or wines)

• Unlimited soft drinks

• Free Wi-Fi onboard

Exclusions #

• Transfers between the Palace and the cruise pier

• Imported alcoholic drinks (available for purchase onboard)

• Tour guide

• Tips and gratuities (optional)

What to bring

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Carry a valid ID or passport to collect your audio guide device. If unavailable, you'll be asked to leave a €200 refundable deposit, which will be returned once the device is handed back.
• Comfortable walking shoes are a must—expect to cover a lot of ground, including marble surfaces and staircases.
• Wear modest clothing in keeping with the cultural and historical significance of the site.

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• It can get chilly on deck, even in summer. Pack a light jacket, scarf, or windbreaker to stay cozy during your cruise.

What’s not allowed

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Photography is not allowed indoors. Please keep your camera or phone packed away while inside.
• Only the official audio guide provided with your ticket is accepted inside. Personal or third-party guide devices are not permitted.

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• Drones and other remote-controlled gadgets are prohibited for safety reasons.
• Avoid littering—dispose of trash properly and do not toss anything overboard.
• For your safety, do not climb on any railings, furniture, or other boat features.

Accessibility

Dolmabahçe Palace

• The ground floor of Dolmabahçe Palace is wheelchair accessible, but the upper floors have limited access.

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• The cruise is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Additional information

Dolmabahçe Palace

• All guests must go through a security screening before entering. In peak season (June to August), the line may take up to 30 minutes.
• Tickets will be emailed a day before your visit. Same-day bookings are sent right away—be sure to check your inbox and spam folder.
• Guests with pre-booked tickets can enter the palace until 4pm.
• For a quieter experience, it's best to visit on a weekday and arrive close to the 9am opening time.
• The main areas (Selamlık, Harem, and gardens) typically take 1 to 2 hours to explore. If you want to explore additional exhibits or take a break, consider setting aside extra time.
• A café on-site offers drinks and snacks with a view of the Bosphorus. There's also a gift shop for souvenirs.
• Step out onto the balcony at the rear of Muayede Hall and take in panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Kabataş.

Bosphorus dinner cruise

• The best seasons for cruising are from April to early June and September to early November, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
• Afternoon cruises, especially between 3pm and 6pm, tend to be busier in the summer months. Try to board between 10am and 1pm for a calmer experience.
• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes earlier at the pier to secure a good outdoor seat at the back of the boat—great for views and photos.
• Vegetarian, pescetarian, and halal meal options are available—just let the staff know in advance.
• Sit on the right-hand side when sailing toward Asia, and switch to the left when returning toward Europe to get the best shoreline views.

Skip the crowds and explore Dolmabahçe and the Basilica Cistern with an easy, time-saving ticket.

• Everything you get at Dolmabahçe Palace: Enjoy skip-the-line access to the palace’s grand Selamlık halls and serene gardens, then explore the ornate Harem with an engaging multilingual audio guide that deepens each detail and lets you move through the complex at your own pace.
• Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Walk straight past the queues into the vast underground hall, where the audio guide brings the Medusa heads, ancient construction techniques, and the cistern’s unique mood to life, with all-day access for unhurried exploration.
• Why choose this combo: A perfect pairing of imperial grandeur and ancient engineering, this combo saves money, cuts wait times, and lets you cover two top sites within a short, easy walking distance.

Inclusions #

Dolmabahçe Palace:

• Skip-the-line entry (all-day access)

• Entry to the Selamlık section (official quarters and ceremonial halls)

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Gardens

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Harem

• Multilingual audio guide (available in 10+ languages)

Basilica Cistern:

• Skip-the-line entry

• Self-guided audio tour in English, Spanish, French, German & Italian

• Instant mobile ticket with all-day validity

Exclusions #

• Transfers between the sites

• Food & drinks

What to bring

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Show a valid passport or national ID at the entrance to collect your audio guide. If you do not have one, a refundable deposit of €200 will be collected and returned once you give back the device.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking long distances on marble floors and climbing stairs.
• Dress modestly to respect the site's cultural and historical significance.

Basilica Cistern

• Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip; the stone floor can be damp and slightly slippery.
• Bring a light jacket or shawl; it stays cool underground even in warm weather.
• Carry wired headphones if you plan to use an audio guide app—Bluetooth often struggles underground.
• Have your phone fully charged for photos and the audio guide (there are no charging stations inside).

What's not allowed

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Photography is not allowed in the interior rooms. Please put away your camera and phone before entering.
• Only the official audio guide provided with your ticket is permitted inside. Personal or external guide devices are not accepted.

Basilica Cistern

• Flash photography is not permitted.
• Tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed due to space and safety concerns.
• Eating, drinking, and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the cistern.

Accessibility

Dolmabahçe Palace

• The venue is not wheelchair accessible, as the upper floors can only be reached by stairs.

Basilica Cistern

• The site is not accessible to wheelchair users; a lift is available near the Alemdar Street exit by the tram line, but the walking routes inside are uneven and steep in parts.

Additional information

Dolmabahçe Palace

• A security screening is required for everyone before entry, regardless of ticket type. Expect delays during peak season, particularly from June to August, with wait times potentially reaching 30 minutes.
• Tickets for the palace are delivered by email one day before your visit. If you're booking for the same day, they will be sent shortly after confirmation. Check your inbox and spam folder to ensure delivery.
• Guests with pre-booked reservations may enter the palace up until 4pm.
• For a calmer visit, consider arriving on a weekday near the 9am opening time.

Basilica Cistern

• Your ticket allows you to skip the ticket queue, but all visitors must go through a security check.
• Arrive early in the morning (by 9am) or visit in the evening (after 4pm) to avoid crowds from cruise ship tours.
• Don’t miss the Medusa heads tucked into the far corner. Walk around them to see both angles.

Explore more, spend less—this skip-the-line combo gives you fast access to Dolmabahçe Palace and Hagia Sophia with audio guides.

• Everything you get: Fast-track entry to both Dolmabahçe Palace and Hagia Sophia, access to the Selamlık, Harem, Palace Gardens, and Hagia Sophia’s upper gallery, plus multilingual audio guides at each site.
• Why choose this: Skip the hassle of separate bookings and save with this budget-friendly combo that covers two of Istanbul’s must-see landmarks with audio guides for a deeper understanding of the history, culture and heritage.

Inclusions #

Dolmabah**ç**e Palace

• Skip-the-line entry with all-day access

• Access to the Selamlık (official quarters and ceremonial halls)

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Gardens

• Entry to the Dolmabahçe Palace Harem

• Multilingual audio guide in English, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, French, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish

Hagia Sofia

• Skip-the-line entry

• Entry to the Hagia Sophia Upper Gallery

• Multilingual audio guide in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian

Exclusions #

• Transportation between Dolmabahçe Palace and Hagia Sophia

• Live tour guide services at either site

What to bring

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Bring a valid ID or passport to collect your audio guide. If you don't have one, you'll need to leave a €200 refundable deposit at the entrance, which will be returned when you return the device at the exit.
• Make sure to wear comfortable footwear, as you’ll be on your feet walking across marble floors and staircases for a while.
• Opt for modest attire to respect the cultural and historical significance of the site.

Hagia Sophia

• Both men and women must wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
• Bring a scarf or shawl as women are required to cover their heads inside.
• Don't forget your trusty wired headphones for an immersive audio experience.
• Make sure your phone is fully charged for tickets, audio guides, and taking photos.
• Sunglasses or a hat will help if you’re waiting outside in the sun during busy hours.

What’s not allowed

Dolmabahçe Palace

• Photography is strictly prohibited inside the venue, so please keep your camera tucked away.
• The audio guide included with your ticket is the official version issued by Dolmabahçe Palace. Third-party audio guides are not permitted at the venue.

Hagia Sophia

• Visitors are not permitted to enter the main prayer hall on the ground floor.
• Flash photography is not allowed.

Accessibility

Dolmabahçe Palace

• The ground floor of Dolmabahçe Palace is wheelchair accessible, but the upper floors have limited access.

Hagia Sophia

• The site is not wheelchair accessible. You have to climb a flight of stairs to reach the Upper Gallery visiting area.

Additional information

Dolmabahçe Palace

• While this ticket allows you to skip the entry line, all visitors must go through security. During the high season (June to August), the security line may take up to 30 minutes.
• Tickets are sent by email one day before your visit. For same-day bookings, tickets are sent immediately. Be sure to check both your inbox and spam folder.
• Visitors with pre-booked tickets can enter until 4pm.
• Visit on a weekday and arrive soon after opening (around 9am) for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
• A typical visit through the Selamlık, Harem, and gardens takes about one to two hours. Plan for extra time if you’d like to visit the satellite museums or take a break.
• Enjoy tea or snacks at the palace café overlooking the Bosphorus, and browse souvenirs in the palace gift shop.

Hagia Sophia

• You can bypass the ticket lines, but the security check is mandatory.
• Security checks can take time. Keep 30 to 40 minutes on hand for possible delays, especially during midday or after the prayer hours.
• During the five daily prayers, certain areas are restricted to tourists. Additionally, Hagia Sophia is closed on Fridays from 12pm to 2:30pm for the Friday prayer.
• Hagia Sophia is under renovation; therefore, not all parts of the building are open to the public.