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Beylerbeyi Palace

  • Istanbul , Marmara Region, Turkey

Last updated: 09 July, 2024

This stunning palace was built in 1865 by Sultan Abdulaziz (1830–1876) as a summer residence and to entertain guests – Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph and French Emperor Napoleon III’s wife, Empress Eugenie, both visited.

The palace’s opulent interior features a blend of Ottoman, Baroque, and Rococo styles, adorned with exquisite chandeliers, gilded ceilings, and luxurious furnishings. Notable rooms include the reception hall, the Grand Hall, and the Sultan’s study.

Today, the main structure and harem sections are open to visitors. Explore its lavish rooms and beautifully manicured gardens for a fascinating insight into the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire and the decadent lifestyles of its sultans.

Logistics

Price from: £3
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

To get there, take a taxi or use public transportation. From the European side, you can take a ferry from Eminonu or Kabatas to Uskudar, and then either walk or take a short taxi ride to the palace. From the Asian side, it is within walking distance from the Uskudar ferry terminal.

When to do it

The palace is open all year round, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday.