Dolmabahçe Palace travel guide

The Dolmabahçe Palace, a stunning fusion of European architectural styles, stands majestically in Beşiktaş, Istanbul.

Built between 1843 and 1856 under the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I, the palace was intended to project a more modern image compared to the traditional Topkapi Palace.

The Dolmabahçe Palace showcases the extravagant lifestyle of the late Ottoman Empire with its 285 rooms, 46 halls, 6 baths, and a grand ceremonial hall. It was the administrative heart of the empire and the official residence of the last Ottoman Sultans.

The palace also holds historical significance as the place where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, spent his final years and passed away in 1938.

Today, Dolmabahçe Palace serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the Ottoman Sultans and the transition period of the Turkish Republic.

Dolmabahçe Palace is not only renowned for its grandeur, but it also stands out for its exceptional blending of various architectural styles. It combines traditional Ottoman architecture with European neoclassical, rococo, and baroque styles, reflecting the westernization of the Ottoman Empire. The palace features an impressive 285 rooms, 44 halls, and 68 toilets, each decorated with extravagant gold leaf, crystal, and Carrara marble. It also houses the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, gifted by Queen Victoria, which weighs 4.5 tons and contains 750 lamps. The palace's Ceremonial Hall, with a ceiling height of 36 meters, is a splendid sight that never fails to awe visitors. The grandeur extends to the exterior, with manicured gardens that feature a variety of beautiful plants and a magnificent view of the Bosphorus. The palace is also significant as the place where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, spent his last years and where he passed away in 1938.

Located in the dynamic Beşiktaş, the popular Dolmabahçe Palace is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Üsküdar or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Turkey.

Üsküdar is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Üsküdar offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Üsküdar and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, Maiden's Tower, Beylerbeyi Palace, Ortaköy Square, and Naval Museum.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Üsküdar has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Üsküdar, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Turkey!

Dolmabahçe Palace is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Üsküdar, Turkey. If you're flying in, Istanbul Airport is approximately 20.8 miles (33.5 km) away from Üsküdar. From there, you can easily reach Dolmabahçe Palace by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Üsküdar, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Dolmabahçe Palace, which is located 1.2 miles (1.9 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Dolmabahçe Palace, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd. , 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye, Turkey.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Dolmabahçe Palace!

The best time to explore Dolmabahçe Palace is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer moderate temperatures, making it comfortable to roam around the palace grounds and enjoy its magnificent architecture. Moreover, these seasons see fewer tourists, allowing you to appreciate the palace's grandeur without large crowds. The palace is also particularly beautiful during these times, with blossoming tulips in spring and a myriad of colors in autumn, enhancing your overall experience. Make sure to check the local calendar for any cultural events that may coincide with your visit, such as the Istanbul Tulip Festival in April, which adds an extra charm to your palace tour. Keep in mind that Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays, so plan your visit accordingly. To beat the crowd, it's advisable to arrive early in the morning when the palace first opens. This will also give you ample time to explore the palace at your own pace.

To truly enjoy your visit to Dolmabahçe Palace, joining a tour that features this popular palace in Üsküdar is highly recommended. As one of Turkey's most iconic attractions, Dolmabahçe Palace draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Dolmabahçe Palace starting at just 10 EUR below.

Conveniently explore Dolmabahçe Palace and plenty more captivating attractions in Üsküdar by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Dolmabahçe Palace and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Üsküdar has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Dolmabahçe Palace below.

Aside from Dolmabahçe Palace, Üsküdar is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Üsküdar, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, Maiden's Tower, and Beylerbeyi Palace.

Büyük Mecidiye Mosque is a bucket-list mosque and top attraction in Üsküdar, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Büyük Mecidiye Mosque is Mecidiye, Mecidiye Köprüsü Sk. No:1 D:1, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Another appreciated attraction in Üsküdar is Maiden's Tower. Like Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 17,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Salacak, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Beylerbeyi Palace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Üsküdar. This museum and top attraction in Üsküdar has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Beylerbeyi, Abdullahağa Cd. , 34676 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Üsküdar below.