Top 10 Historic Palaces and Pavillions Should Must Visit in Istanbul
Istanbul, with its thousands of years of history, is not only one of Turkey's but also one of the world's most important cultural centres. This rich heritage, stretching from Byzantium to the Ottoman Empire, is evident in every corner of the city. One of the biggest attractions for those wishing to explore Istanbul is the palaces and pavilions that have survived from the Ottoman period to the present day. These structures showcase both the lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans and the architectural tastes of the era. If you want to make your holiday in Istanbul unforgettable, you must visit these palaces and Pavilions. So, where to see palaces in Istanbul? What are the best palaces to see in Istanbul? And how to visit Topkapı Palace in Istanbul? Let's explore together!
Topkapı Palace – The Heart of the Ottoman Empire
One of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, Topkapı Palace was built during the reign of Mehmed the Conqueror between 1460 and 1478. Serving as the main administrative centre for Ottoman sultans, this palace was not only a residence but also the seat of government. One of the most striking sections of the palace is the Harem, which formed the private living quarters of the sultans and their families, while the Enderun Courtyard went down in history as the place where state officials were educated. Topkapı Palace also houses sacred relics and clothing, weapons and manuscripts from the Ottoman period. Converted into a museum in 1924, the palace is now one of the most visited cultural sites in both Istanbul and Turkey. Walking through Topkapı Palace feels like taking a journey through Ottoman history.
How to Get to Topkapı Palace?
Entrance Fee to Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapı Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem): 2,400 TL
Harem (single ticket): 900 TL
Hagia Irene (single ticket): 900 TL
Dolmabahçe Palace – The Magnificent Face of the Bosphorus
Located on the Beşiktaş shore, the Dolmabahçe Palace was built by Sultan Abdülmecid in the 19th century. The 13-year construction process demonstrates the palace's magnificent and detailed architecture. Dolmabahçe Palace was the main centre for conducting state affairs in the late Ottoman period and combines modern European style with Ottoman splendour. The palace's crystal chandeliers, 285 rooms, and 43 halls reflect the artistic sensibilities and wealth of the era. Furthermore, the fact that it was where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk spent his final days in 1938 makes the Dolmabahçe Palace even more significant historically. Discovering the details of this magnificent structure while enjoying the Bosphorus view during your visit will be an unforgettable part of your trip to Istanbul.
How to Get to Dolmabahçe Palace?
Entrance Fee to the Dolmabahçe Palace
- Foreign Visitor Ticket Price (Selamlık, Harem and Picture Gallery Together): 1800 TL
Çırağan Palace – The Elegant Pearl of the Bosphorus
Located between Beşiktaş and Ortaköy, Çırağan Palace is an Ottoman palace that has been developed with various structures since the 17th century. Its stonework and architecture make the palace the pearl of the Bosphorus. Hosting important meetings and celebrations during the Ottoman period, Çırağan Palace now serves as a luxury hotel. With its garden, Bosphorus views and historical structure, the palace is one of the most beautiful places to visit and take photos during your holiday in Istanbul.
How to Get to Çırağan Palace?
Beylerbeyi Palace – Ottoman Elegance on the Asian Side
Located on the Üsküdar shore, Beylerbeyi Palace was built by Sultan Abdülaziz in 1861. The palace was used as a summer residence and was preferred for hosting foreign statesmen. The interior decoration of Beylerbeyi Palace features marble workmanship and period furniture. Viewing the Bosphorus from the palace terrace offers visitors a unique experience. Exploring the palace's history and architecture up close will add cultural depth to your Istanbul tour.
How to Get to Beylerbeyi Palace?
Entrance Fee to Beylerbeyi Palace
- Foreign Visitor Ticket Price: 700 TL
Yıldız Palace – The Secret World of the Sultans
Located in Beşiktaş, Yıldız Palace was built in 1807 for Mihrişah Sultan, the mother of Selim III. During the reign of Abdülhamit II, the sultan moved the administration to Yıldız Palace due to security concerns at Dolmabahçe Palace. The palace contains the sultan's private living quarters, official rooms and extensive gardens. Yıldız Palace is one of Istanbul's most popular historical sites, both for its natural beauty and its architectural details.
How to Get to Yıldız Palace?
Entrance Fee to Yıldız Palace
- Foreign Visitor Ticket Price: 850 TL
Source: Kültür Portalı
Ihlamur Pavilion – The Ottoman Empire's Quiet Corner
Located in Beşiktaş, Ihlamur Pavilion is an Ottoman palace built during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid. Used primarily as a venue for hosting diplomatic guests, the palace's interior spaces showcase elegant examples of Ottoman decorative art. With its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, Ihlamur Pavilion is ideal for visitors seeking a brief respite from Istanbul's historical hustle and bustle.
How to Get to Ihlamur Pavilion?
Entrance Fee to Ihlamur Pavilion
- Foreign Visitor Ticket Price: 250 TL
Source: Tripadvisor
Küçüksu Pavilion – The Address of Romanticism on the Bosphorus
Located in Beykoz, the Küçüksu Pavilion was built in 1751 and used as a summer residence. The palace stands out with its location right on the sea and its elegant interior decoration. Now open to visitors as a museum, Küçüksu Palace is a wonderful option, especially for those seeking a peaceful weekend getaway in Istanbul.
How to Get to Küçüksu Pavilion?
Entrance Fee to Küçüksu Pavilion
- Foreign Visitor Ticket Price: 250 TL
Aynalıkavak Pavilion – Elegance from the Depths of History
Located on the shores of the Golden Horn, Aynalıkavak Pavilion is one of the rare structures bearing the classical architectural features of the Ottoman period. The palace is single-storey on the land side and two-storey on the sea side, a design that suits the slope of the ground. Visiting this palace is a perfect opportunity to get to know both Ottoman architecture and the historical fabric of Istanbul up close.
How to Get to Aynalıkavak Pavilion?
Entrance Fee to Aynalıkavak Pavilion
- Foreign Visitor Ticket Price: 250 TL
Adile Sultan Pavilion – Where History and Popular Culture Meet
Located in Üsküdar, Adile Sultan Pavilion was built in 1858 for Sultan Abdülmecid's sister. Today, the pavilion hosts various events and is best known as the location where the film Hababam Sınıfı was shot. This structure, where history and popular culture intersect, offers a unique experience during your Istanbul holiday.
How to Get to Adile Sultan Pavilion?
Source: Zeoxy
Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion – An Elegant Example of Neoclassical Architecture
Located in Beykoz, commanding a view of the Bosphorus, the Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion is one of the finest examples of Ottoman neoclassical style. The palace, which stands out with its two-storey symmetrical layout and meticulous stonework, has been fully restored and opened to visitors as a museum. A visit to the palace is ideal for both examining the architectural details and enjoying the Bosphorus views of Istanbul.
How to Get to Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion?
Entrance Fee to Beykoz Mecidiye
- Foreign Visitor Ticket Price: 250 TL
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