Attractions: Topkapi Palace

On this Bosphorus cruise you’ll glide under the Bosphorus Bridges and pass many of Istanbul’s celebrated sights. Along the way you’ll see the Galata Bridge, Dolmabahçe Palace and the ornate Ortaköy Mosque, then move past the Rumeli Fortress and the romantic silhouette of the Maiden’s Tower. The cruise also skirts the shores by Topkapı Palace and the Süleymaniye Mosque, with frequent photo opportunities as the city unfolds around you. You can upgrade your cruise with an optional stop on the Asian shore in the picturesque Beylerbeyi area. That option includes an approximately one‑hour visit to explore the neighbourhood and take photos, plus a fixed‑menu breakfast or lunch to enjoy before rejoining the boat. Throughout the trip you’ll travel on a modern, comfortable boat with friendly staff. English‑ and Russian‑speaking guides provide engaging commentary and warm hospitality, helping you learn about the landmarks and get the most from the scenery.

On this cruise, you'll get to admire Istanbul from the Bosphorus while enjoying a delicious dinner. During the cruise, you'll get to see prominent landmarks, such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Maiden Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge. While on board, you'll be treated to a delicious dinner consisting of Turkish and international cuisine. You'll also get to watch a variety of performances by local artists.

On this leisurely cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to sail through Golden Horn and along the Bosphorus European shore. You’ll experience the city from the water and be able to take in famous landmarks such as the Dolmabahce Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress and the iconic Bosphorus Bridge. Other attractions you will see include Topkapi Palace, Maiden Tower and Galata Tower.

You will skip the queue at the museum with an official tour guide, saving time before your visit. This arrangement covers entry to Topkapi Palace and the Harem, so you can get inside without waiting in the regular line. Once you’ve entered Topkapi Palace and the Harem, you will leave the group and continue your visit without a guide. You can explore the palace and harem at your own pace, following your interests and spending as long as you like in the areas that appeal to you. Along the way you may take photos, read information panels and absorb the atmosphere of the site.

A Bosphorus cruise offers a relaxed way to see Istanbul from the water. As you move along the strait, you will pass the Galata Bridge and take in views of Dolmabahçe Palace. Along the way you will see Ortaköy Mosque on the waterfront, the imposing Rumeli Fortress and the Bosphorus Bridges that link Europe and Asia. The route also includes sights such as the Maiden’s Tower, Topkapı Palace and the domes of Süleymaniye Mosque. Morning, sunset or night trips each bring different, beautiful light and atmospheres to these landmarks. You will travel on a new, comfortable boat and be looked after by friendly, helpful staff. English- and Russian-speaking guides will typically provide insightful commentary so you can learn about the places you pass. The experience combines sightseeing with comfort and hospitality as you enjoy Istanbul’s maritime views.

This self‑guided audio tour app lets you explore Istanbul at your own pace. You’ll begin at the iconic Hagia Sophia, an architectural landmark spanning centuries, and move on to the Blue Mosque with its striking blue tiles. Along the way, the narration will bring Ottoman history to life at Topkapi Palace and guide you through the lively stalls and passages of the Grand Bazaar. As you continue, you’ll stroll along Istiklal Street toward Galata Tower for panoramic views, savour the colours and aromas of the Spice Bazaar, and descend into the atmospheric Basilica Cistern. The route crosses the Bosphorus to the Asian side, where the app will lead you to the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace and the vibrant neighbourhood of Kadıköy. A ferry ride on the Bosphorus forms part of the experience, offering views of both continents, and the tour concludes at the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, which reflects Istanbul’s blend of East and West.

See Istanbul from the Bosphorus aboard a modern, comfortable boat. You can choose a daytime, sunset or night cruise, each offering a different feel of the city. Friendly guides will share stories as you relax and take in the view, and cruises are timed for a scenic experience — including options that are perfectly timed for a breathtaking sunset. As you move along the strait you will pass many of Istanbul’s most recognisable landmarks. Expect to see the Galata Bridge and Galata Tower, Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, and the Dolmabahçe Palace with its mosque and clock tower, followed by Çırağan Palace and the Ortaköy Mosque. You will sail under the First Bosphorus Bridge, pass Galatasaray Island and the Bebek Khedive Pavilion, and admire the Rumeli Fortress before going beneath the Second Bosphorus Bridge. On the return leg you will enjoy views of the Maiden’s Tower, Topkapı Palace, the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) and the Süleymaniye Mosque, giving you a memorable perspective on Istanbul from the water.

You will meet your guide in front of VIERI SHOP at Sultanahmet; they will be holding a flag or an umbrella so you can spot them easily. From there, the visit centres on Topkapi Palace, the historic Ottoman residence in Sultanahmet that served as the sultans’ main home for roughly 400 years (1465–1856) and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you move through the palace complex, you will see its blend of Ottoman and Byzantine architectural styles, with intricate tile work and elaborate decorations. You will also explore the palace gardens and the extensive collections of artefacts, which include imperial treasures, manuscripts and relics. Along the way you will enter the Harem, the private quarters of the sultan’s family, noted for its numerous chambers and opulent decor. The Imperial Treasury is another highlight; it is home to precious objects such as the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. The experience will give you a close look at the art, architecture and historic objects that shaped life at the Ottoman court.

From a high observation deck in Istanbul, you’ll enjoy an unrivalled 360-degree panorama of the city’s skyline. The viewpoint offers both indoor and outdoor areas, so you can take in the city from every angle. Step outside to feel the breeze as you look over the turquoise waters of the Bosphorus Strait and the wider Marmara Sea; you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the waves below. Telescopes and binoculars are available to help you zoom in on Istanbul’s most famous sights. From this bird’s-eye position you’ll be able to pick out landmarks such as the majestic Hagia Sophia and the stately Topkapi Palace, alongside other architectural and historical features that define the city. The setting lets you appreciate both natural views and built heritage in a single visit.

On a guided tour of Topkapi Palace, you will step into the heart of the Ottoman Empire. As you move through the palace’s many rooms and courtyards, you will learn about Ottoman history and the everyday life of the Sultan’s family. The complex of buildings, pavilions and courtyards once functioned as a self-contained city, one that most of its inhabitants rarely left. Along the way you will explore the outer-terraced gardens and pause to admire the view over the Golden Horn. You will also visit the harem, where domestic and political power rested with the Queen Mother. The harem housed hundreds of women and family members, and hundreds of eunuchs performed a wide range of duties there. Walking through the harem is the only way to see the very early, exceptionally crafted Iznik tiles, which are decorated with floral designs and verses from the Quran.

On this guided tour, you will be able to skip the long queues and enter Istanbul's Topkapi Palace. Your tour will begin at the square and fountain opposite Topkapi Palace, and you'll proceed inside to explore the rooms, gardens and galleries. A local historian guide will accompany you and share insights into the history of the Ottoman Empire.

On this small-group tour (maximum 10 people) you will explore Istanbul’s historic heart with all entrance tickets included. The day begins at the German Fountain beside the Roman Hippodrome, where chariot races once took place. You will then see the Blue Mosque, the only mosque in the city with six minarets, and visit Hagia Sophia — the Church of Divine Wisdom, a highlight of the day. As you move through the area, you will be guided to Nakkas Cistern and shown a presentation about old Istanbul, followed by a demonstration of traditional Turkish handicrafts. You will also spend time in the Grand Bazaar, home to thousands of shops. The visit continues at the magnificent Topkapı Museum, often regarded as the most important museum in Turkey and the Balkans, where you will see the first, second, third and fourth courtyards, the Audience Hall, the Treasury, gardens and kiosks, and Hagia Irene Church. Lunch will be served en route in a local, authentic restaurant where you can taste a variety of local flavours. Along the way, your guide will provide context and stories to help bring these sites to life.

On a snow-white, 22-metre yacht that accommodates up to 16 people, you will cruise along the Bosphorus and see Istanbul from a different perspective. From the deck you will have the opportunity to behold nearly all of the city’s major landmarks: Dolmabahce Palace, Topkapi and Chiragan Palaces, the Sultan Suleiman Mosque, the Bosphorus Bridge and the famous Maiden Tower. As you take in the scenery, attentive staff will serve light snacks and seasonal fruits. Along the way you will watch palaces, mosques and waterfront architecture unfold before you, giving plenty of chances for photos and quiet moments on deck. The small group size will let you relax and enjoy the views while staff attend to your needs. This cruise provides a calm, scenic way to explore Istanbul’s skyline and waterfront from the water.

On this guided tour you will explore Istanbul’s imperial heritage, beginning at Topkapi Palace, the home of Ottoman sultans for more than 400 years. You will move through its grand courtyards and imperial halls while an expert guide offers contextual commentary. As you enter the Harem, you will learn about palace life, royal families and court traditions that shaped the Ottoman court. You will then head underground to the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, a Byzantine masterpiece known for its forest of marble columns and the mysterious Medusa head sculptures. Along the way your guide will share engaging stories and historical insights that help bring the city’s Ottoman and Byzantine past to life. This tour is ideal for travellers looking for a short yet immersive introduction to Istanbul’s imperial landmarks and layered history.

The Istanbul E‑pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that gives you contactless mobile entry to more than 100 top Istanbul attractions. It will be available for immediate use after purchase and includes skip‑the‑ticket‑line access at most sites. A complimentary one‑way private airport transfer is included with your E‑pass, and customer support is available via WhatsApp and chat while you plan or during visits. Along the way you may listen to the history of museums and sites with professional tour guides. Attractions on the E‑pass are offered in three ways: walk‑in attractions where you simply show your E‑pass ID to enter; guided tours where you join a guide at the stated meeting point; and reservation‑required tours, for which reservations are handled through the E‑pass panel and confirmed by email. The pass provides a flexible, contactless way to explore Istanbul’s museums and other top attractions while making on‑the‑spot visits and guided experiences easier to arrange.