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Very impressive display of the wealth of the sultans. This was built as a summer residence. There is a strong french influence in the decor. It is very reminiscient of Dolmbache palace but on a much smaller scale. Both are on the water and both are lavishly decorated. If you have a chance to see both I would go to both saving Dombache for last. If ou are short on time then I would recommend Dolmbache. The entrance fee was onlyy 50 lira. If you take the ferryy or mamaray over from the european side you can just grab the bus which stops right out front.…
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Date of experience: October 2020
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This palace was built as a summer Sultan's residence on the Asian side of the two-continent city. It architecturally reminds on the Dolmabahce lavish palace across, but on the smaller scale. The same 19c western influence is also visible from here, mixed with Ottoman style. Great views of the Bosphorus bridge above you.…
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Date of experience: September 2020
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There are certain cities and countries you visit once which is enough. Istanbul is a city you can come back to and never tire of. I always discover something new. I have never actually been to the Asian side properly. It is much more relaxed and laid back. There are less inhabitants. Most tourists will stay on the European side as this is where most of the tourist attractions are located. Suggest doing a day trip to the Asian side. Cheapest and fastest way is with the ferry which goes frequently. The easiest option from there is to then take a taxi at the ferry port to the palace. You don't need long. Easy to navigate and well laid out. Free audio guide included which is very good. It's not information overload like some places. Unlike other audio guides, you don't need to press any numbers. When you start the walking tour it will automatically track where you are and play the automated recording. I thought I had to press the numbers and missed some of the commentary as I didn't realise this. I just went back and re-traced my steps. When you collect the audio guide, they will take identification from you like a passport or driving licence that they will give back to you at the end provided you return the audio guide in one piece! You need to take your shoes off upon entering the palace and wear those blue itchy plastic covers. With the COVID-19 pandemic, masks must be worn. The palace is stunning and well kept. Really easy to navigate. Staff are pleasant. Just a note when listening to the audio guide, don't go near the next point until you have finished your commentary. For example, I was at room 16 and walked towards point 17 and the navigation on the audio guide picked this up and suddenly the commentary stopped for 16 and started on 17! The grounds are stunning and views breathtaking. The visit should not take longer than an hour. Very quiet which was nice as you could appreciate the peace and calm. There is a coffee shop but it had limited drinks only. As usual there is an overpriced gift shop that you have to walk through to exit the palace!…
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Date of experience: August 2020
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Seems a little plain relative to the opulence of the Dolmabahce Palace, but quite lavish in its own right. Beautiful location on the waterfront, just below the Bosphorus Bridge.
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Date of experience: November 2019
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This palace impressed with authentic atmosphere of late Ottoman rulers who had been excited with Western architecture and interior design of that time. Refined taste in decoration, well appointed spacious halls. Amazing garden. Worth to compete with Dolmabahce palace in the central part of Istanbul…
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Date of experience: February 2020
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