Home of the Last Emperor of Turkey
Known for its grandiose architecture the palace was constructed in the 19th century by Sultan Abdül Mecit and replaced the Topkap? Palace as the centre of Ottoman Empire upon its completion.
Open Hours
Suggested Duration - 2-3 Hours.
Marvel at the amazing architecture that combines the best of European and Ottoman design, explore the various royal quarters and the harem and taking scenic views of the coast.
Dolmabahce Palace is in Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey. Straddling Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace.
Dolmabahce Palace is a grand 19th-century palace that served as the main administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1887 and from 1909 to 1922. The palace is famous for its luxurious interiors, which feature crystal chandeliers, gold leaf, and silk carpets, and for being the place where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, spent his final days.
Known for | Its opulent interiors, its historical significance, and its stunning location on the Bosphorus Strait. |
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Timings | The palace is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except on Mondays and Thursdays when it is closed. |
Entry Fee | The entry fee is 90 Turkish Lira for the Selamlik (ceremonial suites) and 60 Turkish Lira for the Harem (private apartments of the Sultan). |
Tips | Buy tickets online to avoid queues. Photography is not allowed inside the palace. |
Required Time | Approximately 1-2 hours are needed to fully explore the palace. |
Restricted Items | Large bags, tripods, and flash photography are not allowed inside the palace. |
The palace houses 285 rooms, 46 halls, 6 baths (hamam) and 68 toilets. The main attraction is the Ceremonial Hall, which boasts a 4.5-tonne crystal chandelier, the largest in the world.
The palace is a blend of various European architectural styles, including Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical, and is considered a symbol of the westernisation of Istanbul.
The best time to visit Dolmabahce Palace is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
The palace is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the tram to Kabatas stop and then walk to the palace.
Hire a guide to better understand the history and significance of the palace.
Other nearby tourist spots include Taksim Square, the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, and the Naval Museum.
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