Topkapi Palace is a place every first-time visitor to Istanbul, Turkiye, should check out. The former residence of Ottoman Empire rulers is an architectural marvel as well as home to spectacular artifacts and hidden secrets.
However, if you want to make your visit to Topkapi Palace an enjoyable one, there are some dos and don’ts you should know before heading there.
Do Set Aside an Entire Day for the Visit
Topkapi Palace is huge, and a few hours is not nearly enough to see everything it has to offer, including its Harem chambers, treasury, library, and more. Every building is a story for itself, so make sure to set aside an entire day in order to experience it properly.
Don’t Buy a Ticket at the Entrance
Buying a ticket at the entrance will come with waiting in long lines and make you lose valuable time. Instead, either buy a ticket online or book a tour if you want to learn more about the history of the place and hear some interesting stories.
Do Take Advantage of the Free Audio Guide
All visitors to Topkapi Palace are entitled to a free audio guide. Make sure to pick one at the designated booth. It will help you put a lot of things you see into context and get you familiar with the exhibits.
Don’t Miss the Harem
Harem isn’t included in the regular Topkapi Palace ticket, but don’t let this discourage you. Paying a bit extra to access the living rooms used by Sultans and his family is well worth it.