If your next vacation brings you to Istanbul and you want to learn more about the city’s diverse history, the Topkapi Palace is one of the attractions that you don’t want to miss. Topkapi Palace history dates back to the year 1459, when the 23-year old sultan Mehmed II captured the Roman City of Constantinople, changed the name to Istanbul, and named it his new Ottoman empire. The Topkapi Palace in  Turkey kept growing through the years to include luxurious living quarters, administrative offices, and interconnected courtyards. Visitors to Istanbul can take Topkapi Palace tours and learn more about the lifestyles of the leaders of the Ottoman Empire and Topkapi Palace history. Besides the Church of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace Turkey is one of the largest attractions in Turkey and one of the most iconic and recognizable images of Istanbul and subject of photos of Turkey overall as well.

Some of the main attractions are the harem and the main palace, along with jewel crested daggers, portraits of Turkey’s past sultans, information about Topkapi Palace history, as well as old relics from the Ottoman Empire. There is even a lock of hair and teeth that many people believe belonged to the prophet, Mohammed. When you’re done strolling the grounds of the palace, be sure to take a walk through nearby Gülhane Park. Its Cypress trees offer some welcomed relief from the sweltering heat that Turkey can experience. The park is safe for walking and picnicking.

You can access Topkapi Palace by flying into the Istanbul Ataturk Airport and then taking the bus, train, or a rental car to the site. Topkapi Palace Turkey is open from 9:00-6:30 every day of the week except for Tuesdays. Admission prices for admission to the palace grounds and Topkapi Palace tours vary between $10-$15 per person, depending on the current exchange rate. It’s best to avoid visiting on weekends when busloads of people from all over the world, including Turkey, Greece, and other parts of Europe, take Topkapi Palace Tours. Sometimes the crowds are less dense in the early evening hours, from 5:30-6:30. If you get thirsty, there are concessions available at the main gate.

Turkey Map

There are a number of other great attractions in Istanbul besides Topkapi Palace. Some of the most famous attractions are the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum. Besides the main attractions, the city of Istanbul features buildings that are 1500 years old. If you’re from an American city, such as Los Angeles or Las Vegas, it’s hard to imagine a city being that old.