Beylerbeyi Palace Istanbul
A magnificent 19th-century Ottoman summer palace on the Bosphorus, blending European and Ottoman styles with stunning gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Beylerbeyi Palace Istanbul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 19th-century Ottoman summer palace on the Bosphorus, blending European and Ottoman styles with stunning gardens.
"A must-see on the Asian side, offering breathtaking views and opulent interiors!"
🚢 Ferry is Scenic
Take a ferry from European side for stunning Bosphorus views en route to the palace.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture the palace's beauty from the gardens and across the Bosphorus.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Facade
Bosphorus Strait
Admire the stunning 19th-century Ottoman architecture reflecting elegantly on the Bosphorus waters.
Opulent Interiors
Palace Halls
Step inside to marvel at lavish decorations, intricate tilework, and grand chandeliers.
Serene Gardens
Palace Grounds
Wander through beautifully manicured gardens offering picturesque views and a peaceful escape.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Getting There & Tickets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry is Scenic
Take a ferry from European side for stunning Bosphorus views en route to the palace.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture the palace's beauty from the gardens and across the Bosphorus.
⏳ Avoid Peak Times
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Summer sees more visitors.
🏛️ Müzekart Accepted
If you have a Müzekart, it's often valid for entry, saving on ticket price.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry is Scenic
Take a ferry from European side for stunning Bosphorus views en route to the palace.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture the palace's beauty from the gardens and across the Bosphorus.
⏳ Avoid Peak Times
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Summer sees more visitors.
🏛️ Müzekart Accepted
If you have a Müzekart, it's often valid for entry, saving on ticket price.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the palace and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Beylerbeyi Palace for its stunning architecture, opulent interiors, and picturesque Bosphorus setting. Many highlight the beautiful gardens as a tranquil escape. Some note that it can get crowded, and interior tours might have specific time slots or require guides.
"I am not the biggest fan of places where the entrance fee is high (for what you can explore) - 15€ for a rather small palace, and additionally you are NOT ALLOWED to take some time and make nice pictures. Also, there is construction going on and practically the whole facade is covered. The palace is nice inside but it's a long way from the center and no pictures officialy allowed, wouldn't come again."
Julia Kaczmarczyk
"Though the front was going renovations the palace and water terrace was breathtaking
The gardens was also very nice for quick sitting in that calm luxury atmoshpere
Chandeliers in this palace was massive and very elegant, main hall was incredibly nice
No photographing is allowed inside"
Mohammad Raad
"Tucked away in the heart of Üsküdar, the Beylerbey Museum is a hidden gem that brings the world of Sultan Abdul Hamid to life in the most elegant, mesmerizing way. It’s not a huge museum — but wow, every inch is packed with beauty, detail, and history.
The rooms are like scenes from a lost era. Breathtaking furniture, man-made masterpieces in the form of chairs, tables, curtains, even the carpets — every element speaks luxury and craftsmanship. The walls and ceilings are adorned with delicate drawings, and the lighting, the fabrics, the placement of each item… it all feels intentional and poetic.
Each room is labeled, with little sentences or quotes that give it a personal touch, as if the museum is whispering stories to you. And although there are guards everywhere, they’re polite and don’t hover too much. Photography is technically forbidden — but let’s be honest, most of us still managed to sneak a few shots. Too pretty not to!
Because it’s not a massive space, you don’t feel exhausted — the visit is smooth and fast-paced, especially since it gets a bit crowded with school tours. But it’s clean, organized, and never boring. After the museum, you can stroll through the peaceful garden outside, with trees and a fountain that just beg you to sit and breathe it all in.
One downside? The prices around the museum are no joke. I paid 200 lira for one cookie — felt more like robbery than dessert. If you’re on a budget, better walk a bit farther out to grab food or snacks.
Still, the experience was magical. I’d go again in a heartbeat, and I definitely recommend it — especially with its spot right by the coast. Watching the ships and boats glide across the water just adds to the charm. History, beauty, and a sea breeze? Yes, please."
Aisha A.K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Beylerbeyi Palace by ferry from popular spots like Eminönü or Kabataş on the European side, offering beautiful Bosphorus views. Alternatively, public buses also serve the area.
Beylerbeyi Palace is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, in the Üsküdar district.
Many visitors prefer the ferry for its scenic route and pleasant experience. It's a great way to see the city from the water.
Yes, various public buses stop near Beylerbeyi Palace, making it accessible from different parts of Istanbul. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option.
Once you arrive in Üsküdar, Beylerbeyi Palace is well-signposted and a short distance away, easily reachable by a short bus ride or a pleasant walk along the Bosphorus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Beylerbeyi Palace entrance fee can vary, but it's generally affordable. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current Beylerbeyi Palace ticket price.
While you can purchase tickets on-site, buying Beylerbeyi Palace tickets in advance might save you time, especially during peak season.
Yes, if you possess a Müzekart (Museum Pass), it is often valid for entry to Beylerbeyi Palace, which can be a cost-effective option for multiple museum visits.
Beylerbeyi Palace typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to verify the exact Beylerbeyi Palace hours before your visit as they can change seasonally.
The Beylerbeyi Palace garden is generally accessible, but entry to the palace interior requires a ticket. The garden offers lovely views and a pleasant stroll.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens offer fantastic vantage points for capturing the palace's facade with the Bosphorus in the background. The interior also provides stunning photo opportunities of the opulent decor.
Photography rules inside historical sites can change. It's advisable to check for signage or ask staff upon entry regarding interior photography permissions.
Early mornings or late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, offer beautiful lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing a warm glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and urban areas in Istanbul. It's best to avoid bringing drones to prevent any issues with authorities.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a DSLR, is suitable. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the palace's grandeur and its surroundings.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
A typical visit to Beylerbeyi Palace, including exploring the interior and gardens, can take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Beylerbeyi Palace can get crowded, especially during summer and on weekends. Weekday mornings tend to be less busy.
Inside, you'll find richly decorated rooms showcasing Ottoman imperial lifestyle, including ornate furniture, intricate tilework, and impressive chandeliers.
Absolutely! The Beylerbeyi Palace garden offers beautiful landscaping, fountains, and stunning views of the Bosphorus, providing a perfect complement to the palace visit.
The palace grounds and gardens are relatively flat, but some interior areas might have stairs. It's advisable to inquire about accessibility upon arrival.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Focus on the gardens and exterior for younger children.
* Engage kids by pointing out interesting details in the palace rooms.
* Combine the visit with a ferry trip for added fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for public transport like buses or ferries is also very affordable and offers scenic routes. Budget tips:
* Utilize the Müzekart for free entry.
* Travel by public ferry or bus.
* Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips:
* Visit during the golden hour for soft, warm light.
* Experiment with different angles from the gardens and across the water.
* Capture the intricate details of the interior decor.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ottoman Summer Life
The palace complex consists of the main palace building, two smaller pavilions (Mermer Köşk and Sarı Köşk), and a marble kiosk (Deniz Köşkü). The main palace itself is divided into Selamlık (for men) and Harem (for women) sections, each elaborately decorated. The interiors are adorned with exquisite Bohemian crystal chandeliers, fine Sèvres porcelain, and intricate Persian carpets, offering a vivid picture of imperial luxury.
Visitors today can explore these opulent rooms, imagining the lives of sultans and their families. The surrounding gardens provide a serene environment to appreciate the palace's architecture and its stunning Bosphorus vistas. It's a place where history, art, and natural beauty converge, offering a unique insight into the late Ottoman era.
Navigating Istanbul's Bosphorus Transport
The ferry ride is not only a practical mode of transport but also a highly recommended activity for any visitor. It provides a unique perspective of the city that cannot be replicated from land. The gentle sway of the boat and the refreshing sea breeze make the trip enjoyable and memorable.
Upon arrival at the Üsküdar ferry terminal, Beylerbeyi Palace is a short bus ride or a pleasant walk away. This combination of scenic ferry travel and easy access to historical sites makes visiting Beylerbeyi Palace a highlight for many tourists exploring Istanbul.
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