Galata Tower + Dolmabahce Palace Combo Ticket with Harem Access
KTLY296273
·
Istanbul
+7
About this tour
One ticket covers two of Istanbul's landmarks: Dolmabahce Palace, the last home of the Ottoman sultans on the Bosphorus shore, and the medieval Galata Tower across the water. Inside the palace you'll walk the domed Ceremonial Hall, see the huge Bohemian crystal chandelier that was a gift from Queen Victoria, and tour the Harem where the Sultan's family lived. At the tower, an elevator carries you most of the way up to a 360-degree lookout over the city, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus. Admission to both is included.
Highlights
- Walk the domed Ceremonial Hall where the Ottoman court once held its grand celebrations
- See the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, a gift from Queen Victoria
- Climb the Crystal Staircase, built from Baccarat crystal, brass, and mahogany
- Step into the Harem, the private quarters of the Sultan and his family
- See Ataturk's room, kept exactly as it was, where he passed away in 1938
- Stroll the palace gardens overlooking the Bosphorus
- Take in 360-degree views of Istanbul, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus from Galata Tower
- Historical Significance: Explore a monument that has been a key part of Istanbul's skyline since the 14th century.
- Visit one of Istanbul's most photographed landmarks, part of the skyline since the 14th century
- Browse the tower's museum exhibits and the legend of Hezarfen Ahmed Celebi's flight from its top
- Tour Dolmabahce Palace, the final residence of the Ottoman sultans
- See the world's largest collection of Baccarat and Bohemian chandeliers.
- Admire the crystal staircase crafted from Baccarat crystal, brass, and mahogany.
- View the 360-degree panorama of Istanbul's skyline and landscape.
- Delve into the complex history of the city while taking in its modern charm.
- Spot the mix of Byzantine, Genoese, and Ottoman styles in the architecture
- Admire panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline and landscape from Galata Tower.
- Delve into the complex history of Istanbul while taking in its modern charm.
Included / Excluded
- Admission to both Dolmabahce Palace and Galata Tower
Opening Hours & Visiting Tips for Both Sites
Dolmabahce Palace is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00, closed on Mondays. It also shuts on New Year's Day and on the first day of both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, so check the calendar before you go. There's no dress code, but you'll cover a lot of ground on marble floors, so comfortable clothes and shoes make the visit easier.
Galata Tower runs two ticketed sessions a day. The daytime session is from 08:30 to 18:14, with the last ticket sold at 17:45. In the evening it reopens as a Night Museum from 19:00 to 23:00, with the last ticket at 22:00. Since the two landmarks sit on opposite sides of the water, plan your day so you can reach each one within its hours.
Available Days / Times
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
From
Book Now
134.40€
Important Information
- Daily entry to the palace is capped, so book ahead, especially June through August
- This combo ticket saves time and money over buying entries separately
- Entry is free on 10 November in memory of Ataturk; expect big crowds and tight security near 09:05
- Set aside 2 to 3 hours for the palace interiors and gardens
- The palace is partially wheelchair accessible: ground floors are easier, upper levels limited
- Wear comfortable shoes; expect long walking routes and marble floors
- No photography inside the palace rooms; photos are fine in the gardens and outdoors
- Do not touch the artifacts or furniture
- No food or drink inside the palace
- No smoking anywhere on the palace grounds
- Be respectful of the site and other visitors
- Galata Tower gets busy in peak season; a booked morning slot is your best bet
- An elevator goes most of the way up, but the last flights are a narrow spiral staircase not suited to limited mobility
- Photography is allowed inside the tower, though flash may be restricted near exhibits
- A cafe and souvenir shop are inside the Galata Tower complex
- The tower's observation deck is open-air and windy in cooler months, so bring a light jacket
- A visit to Galata Tower pairs well with a walk across Galata Bridge, a coffee stop in Karaköy, or a stroll along İstiklal Avenue. Guided walking tours of the Galata area are also a great way to explore the surrounding landmarks.
- Follow staff instructions at all times
- Do not lean out of windows or climb on any structures
- Respect the historical significance of the site by not touching or damaging any exhibits.
- No smoking inside Galata Tower
FAQs
What is Dolmabahce Palace?
It's a grand 19th-century palace on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. It was the main administrative center and royal home of the Ottoman Empire in its final decades, known for its lavish interiors, crystal chandeliers, and European-style design.
Is Dolmabahce Palace free to visit?
No. It runs as a museum and historical site, so a paid ticket is required. You can check current ticket options and deals on this page.
Where can I buy Dolmabahce Palace tickets?
Tickets are sold on-site and online. Booking here lets you see verified options, check availability, and pick up special offers or guided-tour add-ons in advance.
Who built Dolmabahce Palace?
Sultan Abdulmecid I commissioned it, and it was built between 1843 and 1856 to match the grand royal palaces of Europe and reflect the Ottoman push toward modernization.
Who lived in Dolmabahce Palace?
Several Ottoman sultans, starting with Abdulmecid I and including Abdulaziz and Abdulhamid II. After the Republic was founded, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk used it as his Istanbul residence and died there in 1938.
How long does it take to see Dolmabahce Palace?
Most visits run 2 to 3 hours, depending on how long you linger in the ceremonial halls, private apartments, and gardens. Allow extra time if you're into architecture and interior detail.
How can I get to Dolmabahce Palace from Sultanahmet?
Take the T1 tram toward Kabatas to the last stop, then walk about 10 minutes along the waterfront. You can also catch a ferry from Eminonu to Besiktas, or take a taxi for a direct trip.
Can I buy Dolmabahce Palace tickets online?
Yes. Booking online through this page secures your entry ahead of time and lets you compare ticket types and grab good deals, which helps most during busy periods.
Is Dolmabahce Palace open every day?
It's open every day except Mondays.
What is Galata Tower?
It's a historic medieval stone tower in Istanbul, first built for defense and now a museum with an observation deck that looks out over the whole city.
How old is Galata Tower Istanbul?
It was built in 1348, making it more than 670 years old.
How much is Galata Tower ticket?
Prices change with the season and the visiting session. Check the verified Galata Tower tickets on this page for current rates and options.
Where can I buy Galata Tower tickets?
On-site or online. Booking through this page lets you compare verified options, confirm availability ahead of time, and take advantage of online deals.
Can you go inside Galata Tower?
Yes. Inside there are museum exhibits, and an elevator plus stairs take you up to the observation level at the top.
How far is Galata Tower from Taksim Square?
About 1.4 km (0.9 miles), roughly a 15 to 20 minute walk or a short metro ride.
How to get to Galata Tower from Sultanahmet?
Take the T1 tram toward Kabatas, get off at Karakoy, and walk uphill about 10 minutes. Or take the M2 metro via Vezneciler and get off at Sishane Station.
How many steps are in Galata Tower?
There are 146 steps from the elevator exit up to the top viewing platform.
Is there an elevator in the Galata Tower?
Yes, an elevator covers most of the climb. The final few flights are a spiral staircase you'll need to take on foot.
How long does it take to visit the Galata Tower?
Plan on 45 minutes to an hour, which gives you time to see the tower and take in the views.
How tall is Galata Tower?
It stands about 67 meters (220 feet) tall.