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Dolmabahce Palace and its collection

Dolmabahce Palace
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Dolmabahçe Palace stands out as the first European-style neobaroque palace in Istanbul. It was constructed during the reign of Sultan Abd-ul-Mejid I between 1842 and 1853. The palace's construction cost was five million Ottoman gold pounds, equivalent to thirty-five tons of gold, with fourteen tons used solely to decorate the interior ceiling. This grandeur and opulence are evident in the palace's architecture and interior design, making it a fascinating site for visitors.

Layout and Size of Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace is divided into three distinct areas: the Mabeyn-i Hümâyûn (or Selamlık; the rooms reserved for men), the Muayede Salonu (the ceremonial rooms), and the Harem-i Hümâyûn (the Harem; which included the Sultan's family apartments). The palace spans an area of 45,000 m² and comprises 285 rooms, 46 halls, 6 hamams, and 68 bathrooms. This vastness and division of spaces provide a glimpse into the lifestyle and customs of the Ottoman era, offering an enriching experience for visitors.

Visiting Hours of Dolmabahçe Palace Museum

The Dolmabahçe Palace Museum welcomes visitors on weekdays from 9:00 to 15:00, with the exception of Mondays and Thursdays. This information is crucial for planning a visit to the palace and ensuring that you have ample time to explore its historical and architectural richness.

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TRDolmabahçe Sarayı
NLDolmabahçepaleis
DEDolmabahçe-Palast
ESPalacio de Dolmabahçe
ITPalazzo di Dolmabahçe
FRPalais de Dolmabahçe

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Historic house Religion Religious building

#3 History & Anthropology in Turkey #2 Historic houses in Turkey #2 Religion museums in Turkey #2 Religious buildings in Turkey #3 History & Anthropology in Istanbul #2 Historic houses in Istanbul #2 Religion museums in Istanbul #2 Religious buildings in Istanbul

#3 History & Anthropology in Turkey #2 Historic houses in Turkey #2 Religion museums in Turkey #2 Religious buildings in Turkey #3 History & Anthropology in Istanbul #2 Historic houses in Istanbul #2 Religion museums in Istanbul #2 Religious buildings in Istanbul
Dolmabahce Palace
Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd
34357 Istanbul

Images of Dolmabahce Palace

Visitor information Dolmabahce Palace

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday
9:00 – 17:00
Wednesday
9:00 – 17:00
Thursday
9:00 – 17:00
Friday
9:00 – 17:00
Saturday
9:00 – 17:00
Sunday
9:00 – 17:00
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Admission

Ticket Price: 1800 TL (approx. €38) — includes Selamlik and Harem sections

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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Dolmabahce Palace.

Location & Map

Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd, Istanbul

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Dolmabahce Palace have been found.

Dolmabahce Palace Reviews

Dolmabahce Palace has 2 ratings.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, Turkey, is a magnificent example of 19th-century Ottoman architecture and design. Visitors consistently praise its opulent interiors, featuring crystal chandeliers, ornate furnishings, and intricate decorations. The palace's location on the Bosphorus offers stunning views, adding to its appeal. Many reviewers highlight the guided tours as informative and well-organized, providing insights into Turkish history and the lives of the last Ottoman sultans. The palace gardens are also noted for their beauty and tranquility. However, some visitors mention long queues and crowded spaces during peak seasons, which can detract from the experience. A few reviews also point out that the entrance fee is relatively high compared to other attractions in Istanbul, though most feel it's worth the cost given the palace's grandeur. Photography restrictions inside the palace are occasionally cited as a drawback for some tourists. Despite these minor issues, the overwhelming majority of visitors find Dolmabahce Palace to be an impressive and memorable attraction, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Ottoman royalty and the cultural heritage of Turkey.

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  • R
    Rebeca • Jul 19, 2025

    Pros: beautiful place and architecture. Very grand. Beautiful gardens. Lovely.

    Cons: staff are really rude. Taking into consideration that the entrance fee is 1.800 tl photos should be allowed. Yet they aren't and instead of guards letting you know nicely they shout at you, follow you and scold you as if you were stealing or doing something illegal. There is only one path to follow and you cannot walk freely through the rooms therefore you can't really stop and admire the place otherwise you'll jam the flow of people visiting. It's also not friendly for people who have walking disabilities. There's no elevators or places one can sit and rest during the tour of the palace (which takes around 2 hours to visit all). Overall the goos things and the history are overshadowed by this attitude. There is also litte information about the place. They offer an audioguide but it's very superficial and doesn't offer in depth information. They're only nice to you at the store once you exit so you buy things from them.

    Visited on Jul 19, 2025

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