Would appreciate helpful tips from experience in visiting the Topkapi Palace including timing, ticketing, touring and guide if recommended.
Posted by
Brooklyn, NY
4936 posts
We took a half day tour in the afternoon. We wished we had taken the morning tour because there is so much to see on the property. You can easily spend the day there.
PS - the Hagia Sophia was an expensive disappointment. The blue mosque was enough to see and it’s free.
I will try and look at my notes to see which company we used.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
3843 posts
I went with my RS tour and had a partially guided tour with our guide, then we had free time. The RS guidebook has a pretty decent overview and information, but it is an enormous place so if you are big in seeing all the things plan for a good half day minimum. It is also busy, especially when lots of cruise ships are in town so check the docking schedule. Also, don't try to go on Tuesday, it is closed.
PS there is a great Instagram page with photos of the cats of Topkapi @saraykedileri
Posted by
Virginia
642 posts
Not a practical tip, but if you get the chance before departure, try to see the movie “Topkapi” online before you go. Based on an Eric Ambler thriller, released in 1964, great cast, wonderful soundtrack (although in truth more Greek than Turkish), it’s a gang of thieves trying to steal the Sultan’s emerald dagger. Istanbul when it was a city of maybe one tenth the population now.