Tour Highlights
Topkapi Palace
Afternoon Ottoman Splendours Tour
From: $117,00
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour Time: 13:00 - 17:00
Tour Type: Group Tour
Discover Ottoman grandeur at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene, and Gulhane Park on this guided afternoon tour through treasures, traditions, and imperial elegance.
Service Location: Istanbul Tours
Service Provider: ITS
Available languages:
English
Service Details
Step into the world of Ottoman grandeur with this guided afternoon tour through palaces, courtyards, and gardens that once formed the heart of imperial power. Discover the treasures, traditions, and timeless elegance of the empire that ruled for over 600 years.
Topkapi Palace
Begin your journey at the legendary Topkapi Palace, the seat of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th century. Overlooking the Bosphorus, the palace complex is a serene yet majestic symbol of Ottoman political, cultural, and spiritual life. Explore the Imperial Treasury, home to dazzling jewels including the world-famous Spoonmaker’s Diamond, said to be the third-largest diamond in the world.
Visit the elegant Baghdad Kiosk, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture built to commemorate Sultan Murad IV’s campaign in Baghdad. Stroll through courtyards shaded by ancient trees, and let your guide bring the palace’s stories to life — from powerful sultans and royal rituals to courtly intrigue and global diplomacy.
Discover the Imperial Armory, which displays centuries of finely crafted Ottoman weapons, armor, and ceremonial objects. Admire one of the world’s finest collections of Chinese celadon ceramics, many gifted by emperors and dignitaries. Some are rumored to change color in the presence of poison — a fascinating echo of palace lore.
Hagia Irene Church
Next, visit the Hagia Irene (Aya İrini), the first Christian church built in Constantinople, dating back to the 4th century. Unlike other Byzantine churches, it was never converted into a mosque and served as an imperial arsenal. Its raw, untouched interior and acoustic purity offer a powerful, spiritual atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the city.
Gulhane Park
End your tour with a peaceful walk through Gulhane Park, once part of the outer gardens of Topkapi Palace. It was here, in 1839, that the Edict of Gulhane was proclaimed — a key document that marked the beginning of Ottoman modernization and reforms (Tanzimat period). With its shaded paths and historical monuments, the park offers a reflective close to your imperial afternoon.
Why Book This Service
- Explore the magnificent Topkapı Palace, once the center of Ottoman power.
- See priceless treasures including the Spoonmaker’s Diamond.
- Visit Hagia Irene, a peaceful Byzantine church untouched by conversion.
- Discover Ottoman weapons, court costumes, and rare ceramics.
- Stroll through historic Gülhane Park, where empire met modernity.
- Led by a licensed expert guide for deep historical context and storytelling.
What's Included
• Museum entrance fees mentioned on the itinerary
• Professional Guidance
• Free pick up and drop off service from your hotel
• Transportation with A/C vehicles
• Donations to the Mosques
• TURSAB insurance, which covers the costs of services accepted and committed by the travel agency
Please Note
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. This tour does not operate on Tuesdays.
- This is a walking tour through palace grounds and gardens; comfortable footwear is recommended.
- The Imperial Harem section of the palace is not included in this tour but can be visited separately.
- Modest attire is appreciated when visiting historical and religious sites.
- Entrance fees and guiding are included in the tour price.
Meeting Point
At Your Hotel
Cancellation Details
Booking can be cancelled up to 3 day(s) before the tour start.
19 reviews for Afternoon Ottoman Splendours Tour
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Eye-opening tour with a beautiful balance of grandeur and intimacy—terrific storytelling from ITS Travel. Seeing the lavish staterooms and private prayer rooms offered a rare glimpse into royal life.
The blend of history, architecture, and peaceful gardens made this a special experience. Highly recommended for visitors who love cultural exploration.
Perfect for architecture lovers. The intricate tilework and grand designs were explained perfectly by our knowledgeable guide Elif.
Great mix of history and culture, very informative guide.
Fantastic tour! We loved the ornate ceilings, peaceful gardens, and rich history behind every stop. ITS Travel was well-organized and punctual.
I appreciated the slower pace of this tour, allowing time to soak in the atmosphere. ITS Travel made the entire afternoon stress-free and memorable.
We explored hidden nooks of old palaces and lush courtyard gardens. Our guide Elif was wonderful, pointing out intricate tilework and Ottoman details.
Elegant, well-paced, and rich in detail. We wandered through peaceful courtyards and admired splendid interiors. The guide’s explanations of architecture and symbolism were excellent.
A must-do tour in Istanbul! Loved the stories behind every site we visited.
This tour is perfect for history lovers. Stunning buildings, regal architecture, and ornate interiors—ITS Travel’s itinerary was seamless, informative, and well-timed.