Plan your visit to Dolmabahce Palace | Explore Istanbul's Ottoman heritage

Dolmabahçe PalacePlan Your Visit

Dolmabahce Palace is an architectural masterpiece, a testament to the opulence and engineering knowledge of the Ottomans. Situated on the European side of the Bosphorus Strait, it served as an administrative center and royal residence for the Ottoman Sultans from the mid-19th to the early 20th centuries, later becoming a symbol of modernization and reform.

Dolmabahce Palace | Visitor information at a glance

What are the Dolmabahce Palace opening hours?
Dolmabahce Palace is open from 9 AM to 6 PM. It remains closed on Mondays.
Where is Dolmabahce Palace located?
Dolmabahce Palace is located on Visnezade, Dolmabahce Cd., 34357 Besiktas in Istanbul, Turkey.
How many entrances does the Dolmabahce Palace have?
Dolmabahce Palace has two entrances: the main entrance or the Imperial Gate, which was previously used for ceremonial purposes, and the Gate of the Treasury, which served as the entrance for Sultans.
How many annual visitors does Dolmabahce Palace receive?
Around 1.5 million tourists visit Dolmabahce Palace every year.

About Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace & Harem Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

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Combo: Dolmabahce Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide + Bosphorus Cruise

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Combo (Save 20%): Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Show + Dolmabahce Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Combo (Save 5%): Dolmabahçe Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

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What are the Dolmabahce Palace opening hours?

Tuesday to Sunday: 9 AM to 6 PM

Last Admission: 5.30 PM

Closed On: Mondays, New Year’s Day, 1st day of the Ramadan Bairam, and 1st Day of the Feast of Sacrifice

Duration of Visit: Around 1 to 2 hours

Dolmabahce Palace opening hours

Best time to visit Dolmabahce Palace

Weekday vs weekend
If you want to avoid crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning on weekdays. Dolmabahce Palace remains closed on Mondays, however, you can visit on any of the remaining weekdays to enjoy comparatively lesser tourists inside the palace.
Best time of the day
Try to reach early in the morning a while after the palace opens to avoid standing in long queues. After the initial morning rush of the palace opening, you can marvel at its architecture at your own pace. The traffic rush is quite high from 8 AM to 10 AM, so you can reach the Dolmabahce Palace after 10 AM to enjoy lesser crowds and spend more time exploring the interiors.
Best time of the year
The summer months of March to May are the best time to visit the Dolmabahce Palace. You can sit around the Palace Gardens and explore its entrances comfortably under the cloudless blue sky.

Where is Dolmabahce Palace located?

Address: Visnezade, Dolmabahce Cd., 34357 Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey

Find on Maps

Nearest Landmarks: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar

Getting to Dolmabahce Palace

Getting to the Dolmabahce Palace by Public Transport

By Public Transportation

By Tram: You can travel to Dolmabahce Palace by tram, by taking the T1 line. Kabataş Tramvay istasyonu is the closest tram station.
By Bus: You can take buses 22, 22B, 30D, DT1, D31, BSK1, and BSK2 to get to the palace. The closest bus stops are Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi and Dolmabahçe Palace stops.
By Metro (underground funicular): You can reach Topkapi Palace by taking the F1 line of the metro’s underground funicular route. The closest station is Kabataş.

How to get to Dolmabahce Palace

By Car

Dolmabahce Palace is located around 42 km away from Istanbul Airport. If you are driving or taking a taxi to the palace, it will take you between 45 minutes and an hour to complete the journey via the D020, depending on traffic.

If you’re driving your own vehicle, you can park it in a convenient nearby paid parking facility. The nearest parking lots are:

Dolmabahce Palace parking: 1 minute away by foot
Şeker Otopark: located a 10-minute walk from Dolmabahce Palace
Sinanpaşa Otopark: 11-13 minutes away from Dolmabahce Palace on foot

Know before you visit Dolmabahce Palace

Doge's Palace exterior with tourists in line, Venice, Italy.

Book tickets online: To avoid standing in long queues, book your Dolmabahce Palace tickets online. Booking online helps you to save time and money, and your reservation is confirmed upon payment.

Reach early: If you want some uninterrupted quiet time to explore the interiors of the Dolmabahce Palace, visit early in the day, when there are relatively lesser crowds. Weekdays also see lesser visitor numbers than weekends.

Book guided tours: You can enjoy skip-the-line benefits with your Dolmabahce Palace guided tour tickets and combo tickets. You will also receive a pre-recorded audio guide in around 10 to 15 languages, depending on the ticket option you choose.

Dolmabahce Palace strives to accommodate wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. There are ramps on the ground floor and at the main entrance of the palace, making these areas accessible for those using wheelchairs or who have mobility issues. However, there are no accessibility features on the upper floors of the palace.

Cafe: The Dolmabahce Palace has a cafe near its border. You can enjoy refreshments and Turkish delicacies while taking in the views of the Bosphorus Strait,
Gift Shop: There is a gift shop within the palace complex, offering a range of souvenirs, books, and cultural items related to the palace and Turkish history. You can purchase mementos to commemorate their visit.

Plan sufficient time: Dolmabahçe Palace is a large complex with extensive exhibits, so allocate ample time for your visit. We recommend spending at least 1 to 2 hours exploring the palace and its surroundings fully.
Take a guided tour: Opting for a Dolmabahce Palace guided tour not only allows you to enjoy skip-the-line access, but also to have an informative touring experience. Your tour guide will help you explore hidden gems and share anecdotes about the history of the palace.
Wear comfortable footwear: The palace involves considerable walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Additionally, keep in mind that some parts of the palace may require visitors to remove their shoes or wear protective shoe covers to preserve the historical interiors.
Follow visitor etiquette: Respect the palace's rules and regulations, including maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanour inside the exhibits. Avoid touching any artifacts, as this can cause damage.
Explore the gardens and courtyards: Dolmabahce Palace has perfectly manicured gardens and beautiful courtyards on its premises, which offer a tranquil and picturesque setting. Make sure to visit these to soak in the surroundings.

Photography: You cannot take pictures in every area or section of Dolmabahce Palace. Look for cautionary signs and do not use commercial equipment. It may obstruct the view of other visitors.
Interiors: Please do not touch the artworks, statues, or ornamentations inside Dolmabahce Palace.
Outside food: Visitors are not allowed to bring outside food and drinks to the palace.
Luggage: Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the palace and must be checked at the entrance.

Dolmabahce Palace Cafe: It is located on the borders of the Dolmabahce Palace and offers amazing views of its surrounding gardens. The cafe is wheelchair-accessible. You can enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages.
Milli Saraylar Idaresi: They are best known for their pleasant ambiance, quick bites, and coffee. (0.3 km)
Sabrosa Restaurant: When you visit this restaurant, make sure to try their grilled meals with fries and brunch dishes. They also have vegan options and gluten-free dishes. (0.3 km)
Chalet: The place is wheelchair accessible and offers valet parking, free Wi-Fi, and highchairs for children. It is a genuine classic Swiss mountain chalet in the heart of Istanbul. (0.3 km)
16 Roof: From Peruvian to Mediterranean to Turkish, you can have any dish of your choice in this restaurant. (0.3 km)
Gabbro-Restro Bar: It is one of the best places to relax and grab a bite. They can whip up any cocktail to your liking. (0.3 km)

Budget stays:
Wabi Sabi Hostels (1.5 km)
Levantan Hostel (1.6 km)
Taksim Green House Hostel (1.6 km)
Comfort stays:
Puffin Suites (2.8 km)
Ruby Otel (2.8 km)
Sunrise Istanbul Suites (2.7 km)
Luxury stays:
Shangri-La Bosphorus (2.9 km)
The Ritz-Carlton (1.5 km)
Four Seasons Hotel at the Bosphorus (3.2 km)

Hagia Sophia: With a history spanning over a millennium, Hagia Sophia has served as a church, a mosque, and a museum, and is now declared a church again. Its grand dome, stunning mosaics, and impressive size make it an iconic symbol of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural fusion.
Topkapi Palace: Built in the mid-15th century, Topkapi Palace served as the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans for many centuries. With its intricate architecture, sprawling courtyards, and stunning views of the Bosphorus, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
Blue Mosque: Officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque derives its name from the stunning blue tiles adorning its interior walls. With its elegant architecture, multiple domes, and graceful minarets, it stands as a masterpiece of Ottoman design.
Galata Tower: Dating back to the medieval period, the Galata Tower has served many purposes, from a watchtower to a lighthouse. It has a beautiful observation deck from where you can catch stunning views of the city.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul

What are the Dolmabahce Palace opening hours?

Dolmabahce Palace is open from 9 AM to 6 PM. It remains closed on Mondays.

What is the best time to visit Dolmabahce Palace?

The summer months of March to May are the best months to visit the Dolmabahce Palace. The weather is ideal for strolling around the palace courtyards and exploring other attractions in the city. To enjoy comparatively lesser crowds, choose weekdays and reach early in the morning.

Can I enter Dolmabahce Palace at any time during operating hours?

Yes, you have to book Dolmabahce Palace tickets. You can enter any time during the operating hours.

How much time does it take to visit Dolmabahce Palace?

We recommend you spend at least 1 to 2 hours inside the palace to explore the interiors and halls of Dolmabahce Palace to the fullest.

Are group visits allowed at Dolmabahce Palace?

Yes, you can visit Dolmabahce Palace with a group. However, you must inform the authorities in advance and secure permission to ensure that you can visit the palace comfortably.

Where is Dolmabahce Palace located in Istanbul?

Dolmabahce Palace is located in Istanbul's vibrant Besiktas district. The address is: Visnezade, Dolmabahce Cd., 34357 Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey.

What is the best way to get to Dolmabahce Palace?

The most budget-friendly way to reach Dolmabahce Palace is by public transport, such as bus, tram, or metro. Bus stops and train and metro stations are located conveniently close to Dolmabahce Palace, from where you can quickly reach your destination.

How many entrances are there at Dolmabahce Palace?

Dolmabahce Palace has two entrances- the main entrance or the Imperial Gate and the Gate of Treasury. If you use a wheelchair, use the main entrance. It has ramps and elevators to make navigation easier for visitors with limited mobility.

Is there a dress code to be followed at Dolmabahce Palace?

While there is no fixed dress code that you have to follow at Dolmabahce Palace, if you are visiting the Dolmabahce Mosque, wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

Are prams allowed inside Dolmabahce Palace?

No, strollers are not allowed inside Dolmabahce Palace. Since there are no elevators to the second floor, you will find it difficult to navigate the palace with a stroller.

Is photography permitted in the Dolmabahce Palace?

You can take pictures only in certain areas of Dolmabahce Palace. Some sections are restricted and photography is not permitted here. Check the displayed signs and be mindful and refrain from taking pictures in areas where it is not allowed.

Is there a cloakroom at Dolmabahce Palace?

There is no luggage storage at Dolmabahce Palace. If you have large bags or suitcases, you will have to leave them in external luggage storage facilities, like the one at the Sirkeci train station. If you are coming from Havastas or staying in Taksim, consider using the Bagaj luggage service, a few minutes away from the Havastas station to store your belongings.

Can I see everything in one visit to Dolmabahce Palace?

Yes, if you reserve around 2 hours, you will be able to explore all the halls and interiors of the Dolmabahce Palace to the fullest.

Is Dolmabahce Palace worth visiting?

Yes, Dolmabahce Palace is a must-visit, especially if you are interested in history and architecture. It is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, blending various styles such as Baroque, Neoclassical, and Rococo. Look out for its ceremonial halls, including the Crystal Staircase, the Ceremonial Hall of the Valide Sultan, and the Medhal Hall.