Topkapi Palace Small-Group Tour 2026

EXPLORE THE FIRST AND SECOND COURTYARDS

As you arrive at the Topkapi Palace, meet up with your guide before commencing the tour. Right at the start, you will notice the unique architecture of the palace, a blend of Ottoman, Baroque, and Rococo styles. Upon entering the palace, you will immediately skip the line and enter the premises. As you enter the First Courtyard, you will be greeted by a magnificent garden. You’ll also see beautiful fountains and Hagia Irene, one of the oldest surviving Christian Orthodox churches in Istanbul. The church was built in the 4th century and was used as a warehouse during the Ottoman period. From the Second Courtyard, you can access the entrance to the Harem. Used by the Sultan both as his private quarters and the center of dynastic life, this complex hosted several hundred women connected to the imperial household. In the 18th century, the Harem contained a hospital, a school, two mosques, and multiple bathhouses. Your guide will provide additional information about these highlights. Make sure to ask additional questions about points of interest!

CONTINUE TOWARD THE THIRD AND FOURTH COURTYARD

Upon reaching the Third Courtyard, you will find yourself at the Sultan’s private residence. Here, you will find many attractions to explore; notable examples include the Audience Chamber and the Sacred Safekeeping Rooms. In the Audience Chamber, the Sultan discussed important state affairs with foreign ambassadors and important officials. The Sacred Safekeeping Rooms were decorated with beautiful Iznik tiles and hosted some of the most important treasures in the palace. Some of the treasures include holy relics believed to belong to the Prophet Muhammad and the staff attributed to Moses. The Fourth Courtyard is thought of as one of the most beautiful places in the palace. You will find attractions such as the Baghdad Pavilion and the Mecidiye Pavilion. The former boasts a stunning blue and green Iznik tiled facade, thus representing Ottoman architecture. The latter is the newest addition to the palace, built in 1858, and its architecture is more reminiscent of European influences. Follow your guide through these and many other attractions throughout historic Topkapi Palace!

LEARN ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE TOPKAPI PALACE

In 1459, Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror commissioned the construction of the palace. Many prominent Ottoman architects worked on the palace during different periods, including Chief Imperial Architect Davud Ağa in the 16th century. In 1478, the outer walls were completed, and thus, the initial construction plans were concluded. Over the years, the Topkapi Palace was home to the Ottoman royal family and was slowly expanded in size. Many architects contributed over the centuries with the last addition of the palace completed in 1858. Listen to your guide during the tour to learn more about the rich history of the palace!