Mosques: Most are free to enter and can be visited every day. There is a dress code for visitors (e.g., headscarf for women, no shorts or short skirts).
Transportation (Historic Peninsula): Access by private vehicle is very limited. Typically, service is provided as a drop-off from the hotel at the start of the tour and a pick-up at the end. Within the area, the tram can be used (approx. 1 Euro per person).
Physical Activity: During a tour of the Historic Peninsula, at least 10,000 steps are walked. This tour is recommended for tourists with suitable physical ability.
Tickets: Travel agencies can procure fast-track tickets through an online system for most museums and monuments. Your guide will assist you with this.
MONUMENTS & MUSEUMS1. Hagia Sophia
Status: Due to a major restoration that began in 2026, only a very limited part of the structure, including the dome, is visible.
Visitable Area: Only the Upper Gallery is open to visitors.
Entrance Fee: 25 Euros.
Fast-Track Ticket: Can be procured for 30 Euros.
2. Topkapi Palace
Days: Closed on Tuesdays.
Entrance Fee (2026): 2,750 TL (~55 Euros). The Palace Main Section, Harem, and Hagia Irene can be visited with a single ticket. Tickets are sold as a combined pass and cannot be purchased separately for each section. They must be used on the same day.
Duration: At least 3 hours are required for the visit.
Fast-Track Ticket: Can be purchased through the online system.
3. Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
Days: Open every day.
Entrance Fee (2026): 1,500 TL (~31 Euros).
Fast-Track Ticket: Can be purchased through the online system.
4. Dolmabahçe Palace
Days: Closed on Mondays.
Entrance Fee (2026): 2,000 TL. The Selamlık (State Rooms), Harem, and Painting Museum can be visited with a single ticket on the same day.
Fast-Track Ticket: Can be purchased through the online system.