Istanbul: Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern & Old City

Set out on a journey through Istanbul’s historical tapestry as you discover the opulent Dolmabahce Palace, the mysterious depths of the Basilica Cistern, and the enchanting streets of the Old City. Each site unveils a unique story waiting to be explored, from the grandeur of the Ottoman era to the hidden underground wonders.

As travelers wander through these iconic landmarks, they’ll find themselves immersed in a world where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present, offering a glimpse into the soul of this captivating city.

Good To Know

• Save time and money with a combo ticket valid for 2 days to explore Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Old City.
• Enjoy the convenience of meeting the guide at Dsign Cafe in front of the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum.
• Dress code requirements for Hagia Sophia include covering knees, shoulders, chest, and partially covering hair.
• Utilize the tram for easy access between the Old City and Dolmabahce Palace, with a 15-minute ride.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Booking Details

When booking your Istanbul adventure, travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance to secure a full refund. This policy offers payment flexibility and peace of mind for those planning to explore the city’s top attractions.

Tour highlights include the opportunity to visit Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Old City all in one day, maximizing time and savings. Plus, itineraries are subject to change, so it’s essential to check availability for starting times.

For those planning to visit Hagia Sophia, remember the dress code requirements: Women should cover their knees, shoulders, chest, and partially their hair, while men should cover their knees and shoulders. Scarves and body covers are available for purchase at the entrance for added convenience.

Activity Information

Discovering Istanbul’s top attractions becomes a seamless and enriching experience with the insightful Activity Information provided for visitors. This activity is valid for 2 days, allowing visitors to explore the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia on the first day, and the Dolmabahce Palace on the next.

The combo offers a cultural experience with three tours in one day, providing highlights that save both time and money. For the Hagia Sophia visit, there’s a dress code to adhere to for both men and women. Women should cover their knees, shoulders, chest, and partially their hair, while men should cover their knees and shoulders. Scarves and body covers are available for purchase at the entrance.

This comprehensive experience ensures an immersive cultural journey through Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Location Details

Located on the Hippodrome, next to the Egyptian Obelisk, visitors can easily find the meeting point at Dsign Cafe in front of the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum for a seamless exploration of Istanbul’s top attractions.

To enhance the visitor experience, consider the following:

1. Google Maps Navigation: Utilize Google Maps for precise location details and easy navigation to the meeting point.

2. Tram Ride: Opt for the tram for convenient travel between the Old City and Dolmabahce Palace.

3. Tram Duration: The tram ride takes approximately 15 minutes, providing quick access to the Palace.

4. Location Benefits: Being close to the Egyptian Obelisk, visitors can enjoy a rich historical surrounding while meeting up for the exploration journey.

Combo Details

Visitors can maximize their experience in Istanbul by exploring Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Old City with the cost-effective and convenient combo offer available for the whole day. This combo provides an excellent way to see multiple tourist attractions and offers varied sightseeing options in one day. Here is a breakdown of what this combo entails:

Tourist Attractions	Sightseeing Options
Dolmabahce Palace	Explore the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans
Basilica Cistern	Discover the ancient underground water reservoir
Old City	Immerse in the historical heart of Istanbul

This combo not only saves money but also allows visitors to make the most of their time by combining three distinct experiences seamlessly.

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Dress Code Information

To ensure a respectful visit to Hagia Sophia, guests are kindly reminded of the dress code requirements to be observed during their exploration of this historic site.

1. Cover Knees and Shoulders: Both men and women are required to cover their knees and shoulders.

2. Partially Cover Hair: Women should also partially cover their hair.

3. Scarf and Body Cover Available: In case visitors need additional covering attire, scarves are available for €1 and body covers for €3 at the entrance.

4. Respect Cultural Norms: It’s essential to adhere to these dress code guidelines to show respect for the cultural norms of the Hagia Sophia and the local community.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures a smooth and culturally sensitive visit to this iconic landmark.

Transportation Details

For efficient and convenient travel between the Old City and Dolmabahce Palace, utilizing the tram is highly recommended. Tram rides offer a quick 15-minute journey, providing easy access to the Palace and making it a convenient transportation option for visitors.

The tram system in Istanbul is well-connected and offers accessibility options for travelers looking to explore various attractions in the city. It provides a seamless way to navigate between different parts of Istanbul, allowing travelers to move around effortlessly.

Security Check Information

Located at the entrance of Hagia Sophia, a high season security check can result in approximately 60 minutes of waiting time for visitors. Here are some key points to help you navigate the security check process effectively and minimize wait times:

1. Arrive Early: To avoid long queues, plan to arrive well in advance of your desired entry time.

2. Security Measures: Be prepared to pass through metal detectors and have your bags scanned for security purposes.

3. Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with the list of items not allowed inside the premises to expedite the screening process.

4. Patience is Key: Stay calm and patient during the security check to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.

Meeting Point Details

Upon arrival at Istanbul’s top attractions, visitors are to convene at Dsign Cafe, situated in front of the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, for a memorable and informative tour experience. This meeting point offers a perfect starting location for the day’s adventures.

Before embarking on the sightseeing journey, guests can enjoy a coffee break at the cafe, energizing themselves for the exploration ahead. Plus, at this meeting point, the guide will provide essential sightseeing tips, ensuring that visitors make the most of their time in Istanbul.

From recommendations on must-see spots to insider knowledge on the best times to visit each attraction, these tips will enhance the overall experience and help visitors navigate the city with ease.

The Sum Up

Experience the magic of Istanbul with a combo tour of Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Old City. Enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of these iconic landmarks, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

From the grandeur of the palace to the mysterious depths of the cistern and the enchanting allure of the Old City, Istanbul will captivate you with its wonders and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

You can check if your dates are available here: