İstanbul: The Topkapı Palace

Topkapi Palace, which was built and commissioned in the 1400s, is undoubtedly one of the most magnificent places in Istanbul. If you are on your way to Istanbul, should we explore this palace together, which you should devote at least three hours to?
Hagia Irene Church


Topkapi Palace is located in the Fatih district of Istanbul. There are many other historical sites around it. On the other hand, it may take at least three hours to visit Topkapi Palace. Therefore, I cannot recommend that you fit the entire region in one day.

The palace, which housed many Ottoman sultans, is a complex spread over a large area. There are both Islamic and Christian places of worship in the palace. Fountains, squares, a kitchen, towers and much more are located inside the complex. It resembles a large residential area with this feature. In addition, not all of the buildings in the palace were built on the same date. During almost every sultan's reign, some renovations or new structures were built.

Gate of Salutation

The palace is closed on Tuesdays. On other days, it opens its doors to visitors at 10 a.m. It closes at 4 o'clock in the afternoon and a certain period of time is allowed for visitors to leave. Therefore, it will be best to visit in early. (You need to leave the complex no later than 6 p.m.)

There are products belonging to different civilizations in almost every building. Some products are exhibited on special days. Some of the things exhibited are not original; but it is hardly possible to understand it. 

How to Get to Topkapi Palace?
- If your hotel is located in Fatih district, you can walk there.
- It takes no more than 15 minutes between Marmaray Sirkeci Station and Topkapi Palace. If you are staying on the Anatolian side, Marmaray will be a good option.
- You also have the option to get from Kadikoy by sea. Eminonu and Topkapi Palace are 20-25 minutes' walk away.
- If your hotel is located on the European Side, you can choose the subway. If you are coming by M1A (Yenikapi-Ataturk), you can get off at the Vezneciler Station and walk to the palace for about 30 minutes. 
Some Details

You need to know
It is forbidden to take photos at almost any point inside the palace. Special permission can be obtained and photos can be taken for a fee. On the other hand, you can take photos from the outside. On the Google, you can find eminent works that are located inside, but I must advise you to follow the rule.

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