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 free pickup from most areas of Istanbul. You can check out the map here. If you are staying outside of the designated area, we will inform you of the meeting point upon reservation.
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$ 4.30).
- The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, on Muslim holidays and on October 29.
Covid-19 Measures
All of our providers comply with local legislation and applicable health recommendations regarding protection and safety, to help avoid the spread of Covid-19. Specifically, the provider of this tour will apply the following measures:
- The use of masks is obligatory. The client must bring their own mask.
- Alcohol gel will be available before, during, and after the service.
- The transport used will be disinfected before and after each service and deep-cleaned every 24 hours.
- Showing your voucher on your phone will be enough, and it is not necessary to print anything.
Price
More Information
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$ 4.30) per person).
When to book?
You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Digital voucher
Show the voucher on your phone to take part in the activity.
Accessibility
No, not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Pet-friendly?
No.
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.
