Dolmabahce Palace Opening Hours: Visiting Days, Best Time to Visit & More

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Dolmabahce Palace Opening Hours

Dolmabahce Palace Opening Hours

General Admission: 9 AM to 6 PM

Last Admission: 5:30 PM

Closed: Monday

Public Holidays: New Year’s Eve, Day 1 of the Ramadan Feast, Eid-al-Adha Day 1

Duration of Visit: 2 to 3 hours

What is the Best Time to Visit Dolmabahce Palace?

To enjoy a hassle-free and enjoyable visit to the Dolmabahce Palace, plan your visit during these times. 

Best Time to Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Weekend vs. Weekdays

Dolmabahce Palace is a popular attraction in Istanbul, so it tends to get extremely crowded during the weekends. The best time to visit the palace is during the mornings on weekdays.

If you want to avoid crowds altogether, book skip-the-line tickets online. You must book tickets online in advance if you are visiting on the weekends to reserve your spot upon payment confirmation. 

Best Time to Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Peak Season vs. Low Season

The best time to visit Dolmabahce Palace is during April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is mild, temperatures are comfortable and humidity is lower than in the peak summer months of June, July, and August.

Visiting Dolmabahce Palace during this time also allows you to escape the tourist crowds. You can enjoy the palace and its surroundings comfortably. 

How Long Do You Need to Tour the Dolmabahce Palace? 

It’ll take you around 1 to 2 hours to fully tour the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul. However, the duration of the tour may vary depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the different sections of the palace, such as the Imperial Harem, the Ceremonial Hall, and the Palace Museum. 

If you are visiting Dolmabahce Palace during the peak tourist season, you can expect longer queues for tickets and entry, which could extend your visit. This is why, it is best to book skip-the-line tickets to make sure that you do not miss your attraction.

Book Dolmabahce Palace Tickets

Skip The Line Tickets to Dolmabahce Palace with Harem Section and Audio Guide
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Dolmabahce Palace: Skip The Line Ticket With Guided Tour
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Combo: Dolmabahce Palace Guided Tour + Bosphorus Cruise Tickets
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Combo: Topkapi Palace & Dolmabahce Palace Guided Tour Tickets
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Istanbul Welcome Card with Access to Top Attractions
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168 hr.
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Istanbul Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Audio Guide
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Extended Validity
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1 hr. 30 min.
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Combo: Blue Mosque + Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern Guided Tour
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Guided Tour
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Istanbul E-pass with Skip-the-Line Tickets to the Top Attractions
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Istanbul in a Day Tour: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Cruise & More
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10 hr.
Guided Tour
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Frequently Asked Questions about Dolmabahce Palace Opening Hours

What are Dolmabahce Palace's opening hours?

Dolmabahce Palace is open from 9 AM to 6 PM from Tuesday to Sunday. 

Is the Dolmabahce Palace open every day?

The Dolmabahce Palace is not open every day. It remains closed on Mondays. 

When is the Dolmabahce Palace closed?

The Dolmabahce Palace remains closed on Mondays, New Year’s Eve, the first day of the Ramadan Feast, and the first day of the Eid-al-Adha. 

How long should I spend at the Dolmabahce Palace?

Typically, visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the Dolmabahce Palace. If you have an avid interest in historical landmarks, you may want to spend a while longer at the Palace. Make sure to explore its various rooms such as the Ceremonial Hall and the Imperial Harem.

What is the best time to visit the Dolmabahce Palace?

The best time to visit Dolmabahce Palace is during April, May, September, and October. The weather is milder compared to the harsher summer months. During these months, the weather is ideal to take a stroll around the city and explore its many attractions. 

Is the Dolmabahce Palace open on public holidays?

The Dolmabahce Palace is open throughout the year but remains closed on Mondays, New Year’s Eve, the first day of the Ramadan Feast, and the first day of the Eid-al-Adha. 

Should I buy Dolmabahce Palace tickets in advance?

Dolmabahce Palace is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul, so you must purchase your tickets in advance. You can book Dolmabahce Palace tickets online in advance to reserve your spot. Booking tickets online also ensures a hassle-free touring experience. 

How to get to the Dolmabahce Palace?

If you are planning to come from Taksim, you can walk for about 10 mins to reach the Fındıklı Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi. From there, take tram line T1 to reach Kabataş station. Dolmabahce Palace is only around 4 mins from this station. If you are coming from Sultanahmet, take the T1 tram and reach Kabataş. Bus numbers 28, 30D, 46C, 66, 93, and EM1 can also take you to the Palace. You can also catch the M1 metro or get on any train from lines Marmaray (Atakoy to Pendik) or Marmaray (Halkali to Gebze). 

How many entrances does the Dolmabahce Palace have?

The Dolmabahce Palace has three main entrances- the Imperial Gate (Saltanat Kapisi), the Gate of the Treasury (Hazinedar Kapisi), and the Gate of the Privy Chamber (Has Oda Kapisi).  

Can you click pictures at the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul?

You cannot click pictures inside the Dolmabahce Palace, but you can click pictures of its exteriors and gardens. 

Are pets allowed in the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul?

Pets are generally not allowed inside the Dolmabahce Palace, except for service animals that assist people with disabilities. 

Is the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul is wheelchair accessible. The palace has multiple ramps and elevators to assist visitors with reduced mobility. 

Can I visit the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul with a large group?

Yes, you can visit the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul with a large group. The palace is a popular tourist attraction, and group tours are welcome.

Are prams and strollers allowed inside the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul?

No, prams and strollers are not allowed inside the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul. You have to climb up 2 flights of stairs so it may not be convenient for you to carry prams and strollers inside the Palace. 

Are there restrooms in the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul?

Yes, there are restrooms available for visitors in the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul. 

Is there a shop inside the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul?

Yes, there is a gift shop inside the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul where visitors can purchase souvenirs and other items. 

Can I cancel my Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul tickets?

Yes, you can cancel your Dolmabahce Palace tickets 24 hours before your experience to get a full refund on your purchase. 

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