Start as early as you can to avoid queues esp in hot summer Make no other plans for half the day - there is so much to see ! View down to Bosporus and over to the Asian site Also get a massage in steam bath - HAMAM and tip your personal coach there min usd5 when entering and shaking... More

There is a number of components to the Topkapi Palace. These had different qualities, for example the display of kaftans was fascinating, the treasures were over-whelming but the palace itself lacked sparkle even though it has a fascinating history. I had recently visited the Alhambra and Topkapi lacked the magical qualities evident there. Nonetheless, this is the focus to Istanbul... More

When you're in Istanbul this site is a true must see. It shows life in the time of the Sultans and the site is full of history. We also used the audio tour which I can recommend as it gives you much more information. Don't forger to also visit the Harem buildings which are part of the complex, but for... More

As a palace it is not grand and we kept comparing it to what we have seen in other places like India. But it does show you the lives led by / luxuries enjoyed by sultans in a nice way. Harem is a key part of it - there's an extra ticket for it but don't miss it if you... More

Be prepared to wait in long lines even to purchase a ticket, get there early because most of the walking tours arrive w ticket in hand so they are in the entrance line first and there are many, many tours. very important, children are free but you still need to get them a pass from the ticket booth. Be ready... More

This is an impressive place but competing with such as the Blue Mosque it just misses the standard set by others. Take food and drink in and sit on the grass, the cafe/restuarant is exhorbitant. I feel that a lot more could be done here especially considering its historic importance.

There is no furniture or fixtures left in either the harem or the palace but the displays of treasure and clothing is worth the visit. Plan to visit early in the day after late morning the lines are incredibly long.

Althought is not the "palace" I thought of is rather a show of the cult to the sultan, and of the many luxuries he enjoyed. In the world specially inEurope, France, Russia, the Kings or ZArs had real palaces, this is rather modest compared to tjhem, althoudht we can imagine the very good life the Sultan had. It is a... More

Huge crowds of shoving tourists but worth the effort. Fantastic structure. Skipped some of exhibits due to long lines.