Discover the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire effortlessly with this skip-the-line combined ticket for two key landmarks: the Topkapi Palace Museum and the Basilica Cistern.

The Topkapi Palace was once home to the Ottoman sultans. With no need to queue, you can delve straight into exploring the palace's majestic courtyards, verdant gardens, and lavish rooms. The palace must be visited with a guided tour led by a professional English-speaking guide, and includes a visit to the renowned Harem Section.

You'll then descend into the depths of the Basilica Cistern, often referred to as the "Underground Palace". Your skip-the-line access allows immediate entry into this intriguing site. An audio guide will accompany you as you navigate its enigmatic chambers, including the iconic Medusa head pillars.

This combined ticket ensures a smooth experience, maximizing your exploration time and minimizing waiting times. It's an ideal choice for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, providing straightforward access to two of Istanbul's most significant sites.

Why you’ll love this…

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire
Explore the majestic courtyards, gardens, and lavish rooms of Topkapi Palace
Take advantage of immediate entry into the Basilica Cistern's enigmatic chambers
Maximize your exploration time and minimize waiting times with this combined ticket

Important to know

Know in advance:

You can visit the two attractions any time you want during opening hours on the day you've booked
After booking, you'll receive your QR entry ticket via a separate email from the local operator. The QR ticket will only be visible when in proximity to the venue. You'll need an internet connection on your smartphone to retrieve your QR ticket
Entry to Topkapi Palace is only possible with a guided tour available at 9.30 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1.30 pm, 2.30 pm and 3.30 pm. Reservations are not required
The guide will provide a 20-minute introduction and accompany visitors inside Topkapi Palace. Once inside, visitors can explore the palace on their own until 5 pm
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. For up-to-date opening hours, please check the official websites
Kindly note that due to the limited capacity of the venue, you might have to wait in queue to get in, even with skip-the-line tickets
Children will be asked to present a valid passport at the museum entrance to validate their age
Temporary update: Please note that the Outer Treasury (Weapon Collection), parts of the Matbah-i Amir Kitchen Complex, and the Petition Chamber / Audience Hall of Topkapi Palace are currently closed. Other sections are open as usual

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

What’s included

Guided tour
Audio guide
Skip-the-line tickets

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

Sultan III. Ahmet Çeşmesi, Cankurtaran, Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Meeting point:

Please arrive at the Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III at least 15 minutes before the tour starts. Your guide will be holding a white flag and will escort you to Topkapi Palace.