Topkapi Palace with Harem Walking Tour with Guide
Fatih, TR
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Detailed exploration of Topkapi Palace
- Visit to the hidden Harem Section
- Discover the oldest church in Istanbul
- Lavishly decorated marble hallways in the Harem
- Learn about the lifestyle of Ottoman Sultans
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3 hours 20 minutes duration
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Professional historian guide
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Small group tour
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Wheelchair accessible
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Harem section visit included
Discover the hidden treasures of Istanbul's iconic Topkapi Palace on a captivating guided walking tour. Led by a professional historian guide, this tour offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the fascinating history and intricate details of the palace. While regular group tours only scratch the surface, this in-depth 3-hour exploration will take you through each gate, garden, and corner, uncovering the amazing stories and hidden secrets that lie within. Venture into the rarely visited Harem Section, where you'll learn about the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman Sultans and their concubines. From the Babu Humayun gate to the Justice Tower, from the Kitchens to the Treasure, you'll be immersed in the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Don't miss this chance to experience the true essence of Topkapi Palace and create lasting memories of your trip to Istanbul.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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3 hours 20 minutes
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Topkapi Palace in-depth with a historian guide, uncovering hidden stories and treasures of the Ottoman Empire on this small group tour.
Included
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Professional English Speaking Historian Tour Guide
Excluded
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Lunch -
Entrance fees
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Entry ticket for harem section, aya irini church and topkapi palace museum is in one ticket-$26.00
Meeting Point
We will be meeting at 10:00 a.m every sunday, at the the main entrance of Topkapi Palace, in front of the Fountain Sultan Ahmed III. We will be waiting you with an orange umbrella.
Sultan Ahmet Sultanahmet Meydanı Topkapı Sarayı, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul , Turkiye
End Point
We will be meeting at 10:00 a.m every sunday, at the the main entrance of Topkapi Palace, in front of the Fountain Sultan Ahmed III. We will be waiting you with an orange umbrella.
Sultan Ahmet Sultanahmet Meydanı Topkapı Sarayı, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul , Turkiye
What to expect
After meeting, , we will enter the Palace from the Babu Humayun gate and start to explore the Topkapi Palace from this gate. Topkapi Palace was a living, education and management center of the Ottoman Sultans and family. We will detailly explore each gate and gardens of the Palace. We will be visiting and informing about each part of the palace with the hidden stories and details. We will also visit the Harem Section of the Topkapi Palace where many people is not visiting. We will see Babuhumayun Gate, Royal Mint, Babusselam gate, Fatih open air museum, Kitchens of the Palace, Harem Section, Justice Tower, Divan-ı Humayun, Treasure, Babussade gate, Chamber of Petitions , Enderun ( "Interior Service" of the Imperial Court )
120 minutes
Admission Not Included
The Second Largest Church After Hagia Sophia: The Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia. Hagia Irene, originally means “sacred peace” (Hagia Eirene), has a special meaning as the first place where Turkish museology was born. Hagia Irene, a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330. During the reign of Emperor Justinianus, the Nika Revolt in 532 led to the devastation of both Hagia Sophia and the Hagia Irene, and two of them were rebuilt together. After the fall of Constantinople since the church was not converted into a mosque it was used as loot and gun depot (Harbiye Warehouse) for a long time.
20 minutes
Admission Not Included
We will visit the most interesting part of the Palace, which is Harem Section. The Topkapi Palace Harem is undoubtedly the most opulent part of the palace. A world of lavishly decorated marble hallways, arched doorways, and over 400 rooms. Read on to get an idea of the lavish lifestyle that was led by the Ottoman Sultans in the Harem. The Harem, build at the end of the 16th century, was a labyrinth consisting of around 300 magnificently tiled rooms, connected by courtyards and fountain gardens. Since Islam forbade enslaving Muslims, the majority of the harem women were Christians or Jews, mostly received as gifts from potentates and nobles. Especially girls from Circassia, the area now known as Georgia and Armenia, were favored for their dazzling beauty. After entering the Harem, the girls were schooled in and converted to Islam and received proper palace training: they were taught how to write, read, play an instrument, sing, dance and provide pleasure to the sultan.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Public transportation options are available nearby -
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
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Bring cash for entrance fees. -
Visit nearby Gulhane Park for a stroll.
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Try local street food near Sultanahmet Square.
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Check out the views from the Justice Tower.
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Don't miss the beautiful gardens inside the palace.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the grandeur and rich history of the Ottoman Empire with the Topkapi Palace with Harem Walking Tour with Guide. This tour takes you on a fascinating journey through the top attraction in Istanbul, offering a unique opportunity to explore the opulent Topkapi Palace and the intriguing Harem section. Led by a professional historian guide, get ready to immerse yourself in the stories and details of this iconic palace that served as the administrative center of the empire for over four centuries.What to expect?
During this 3-hour tour, you can expect a comprehensive exploration of the Topkapi Palace, its majestic gates, beautiful gardens, and hidden treasures. Discover the history and significance of each area as your guide provides intriguing insights and uncovers hidden stories. One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the often overlooked Harem section, where you can step into the lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman Sultans and learn about the lives of the women who resided there.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone fascinated by the legacy of the Ottoman Empire. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler to Istanbul, this experience offers a deeper understanding of the city's rich heritage. It is suitable for individuals, couples, families, and groups of friends who value expert guidance and want to delve into the lesser-known aspects of the Topkapi Palace and Harem.Why book this?
Book this tour for an unforgettable journey through time, guided by an experienced historian. Go beyond the surface level and gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance and architectural beauty of the Topkapi Palace. By visiting the Harem section, you gain unique insight into the lives of the Ottoman Sultans and their concubines. With a small group size, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in discussions, and make the most out of your visit.Good to know
It is important to note that this tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness as there will be walking and stairs involved. Comfortable footwear is recommended. The tour operates every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. and starts at the main entrance of Topkapi Palace, where you'll be greeted by the guide holding an orange umbrella. Come prepared to be amazed and enlightened by the wealth of historical knowledge and captivating stories shared by your guide.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the Topkapi Palace with Harem Walking Tour with Guide have praised the comprehensive and engaging nature of the tour. Many have highlighted the value of having an experienced historian as the guide, who provided in-depth information and answered all their questions. Visitors were particularly impressed by the detailed exploration of the Harem section, which shed light on the often overlooked aspects of the palace. Overall, the tour receives high praise for its educational and immersive nature, making it a highly recommended experience for those interested in Ottoman history.
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