Discover the history of the Ottoman empire on a tour of Topkapi Palace, one of Istanbul's most impressive attractions. Then, shop your way though the massive Grand Bazaar!
Topkapi Palace Tour and Grand Bazaar
The morning of the tour, we will pick you up from your hotel and take you straight to the famous Topkapi Palace, where you'll learn all about what used to be the Ottoman empire's center of power. Ornate rooms and luxurious patios will draw your eyes to every corner of the gold embellished palace.
One of the most extraordinary spaces is the Imperial Treasury, where you can see the palace's incredible porcelain collection and a particular gem that outshines them all. The Spoonmaker's Diamond is definitely a sight you won't forget, weighing in at a whopping 88 carats. In fact, it's the third largest diamond in the world!
We will explore the old kitchens and stables, the Imperial Council building, the Pavilion of the Holy Mantle and the Chamber of the Sacred Relics. Fun fact: among the important Muslim relics housed in this space, you can see hairs from the Prophet Muhammad's beard, his teeth and his bow. This is also where you can find more than 100 fragments of the Quran.
After visiting the palace, the group will head to the Grand Bazaar for an unforgettable shopping experience. You'll have one hour to wander through thousands of vendors selling everything under the sun: spices, tapestries, lamps, rugs, bags, clocks and much more!
Once you have shopped to your heart's content, the group will reconvene and the tour will end at 1 pm in the Sultanahmet district.
Pickup
The tour includes pick-up from the following areas in central Istanbul: Bayrampaşa, Beşiktaş, Beyoğlu, Eminönü, Eyüp, Fatih, Kağıthane, Şişli and Zeytinburnu. If you are staying elsewhere in other areas, you will have to go to the meeting point located at The Marmara Taksim Hotel 5*.
Transport back to your hotel from the Sultanahmet district is not included.
Partial Closures
- The tour includes entrance to all spaces in Topkapi Palace, with the exception of The Harem. If you'd like to visit The Harem, the entrance fee is 35 TL (US$ 2.10).
- The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, on Muslim holidays and on October 29.
Price
More Information
Covid-19 Measures
Please check local restrictions before traveling. All of our services comply with recommendations to avoid the spread of Covid-19.
Duration
5 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
Pickup from your hotel.
Transport by minibus.
English speaking guide.
Entrance to Topkapi Palace.
Not included
Return transport to your hotel.
Optional entrance for The Harem in Topkapi Palace (35 TL (US$ 2.10) per person).
When to book?
You can book up until 36 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
No printing of documentation required.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
