Beylerbeyi Palace is one of the most stunning waterfront palaces in Istanbul, offering a glimpse into the luxury and elegance of the late Ottoman Empire.
In this guide, we’ll share our firsthand experience, along with practical tips on tickets, entry fees, must-see sections, and how to avoid long queues. If you’re planning a visit to Beylerbeyi Palace Museum, this is everything you need to know!
Fascinating Facts About Beylerbeyi Palace Museum
✔ Built as an imperial summer palace – Constructed in 1865 by Sultan Abdülaziz, Beylerbeyi Palace was used as a summer residence and guesthouse for foreign dignitaries.
✔ Hosted European royalty – Among its famous guests were French Emperor Napoleon III’s wife, Empress Eugénie, and the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph.
✔ Features stunning Baroque and Ottoman architecture – The palace combines European neoclassical elements with traditional Ottoman interior design.
✔ Surrounded by lush gardens – The palace boasts beautiful terraced gardens, pavilions, and fountains, offering stunning views of the Bosphorus.
✔ Home to a unique underground tunnel – A secret tunnel beneath the palace was used by sultans to reach the seaside without being seen.
✔ The last home of Sultan Abdülhamid II – The exiled Ottoman sultan lived his final years in Beylerbeyi Palace after being dethroned in 1909.
Tip: Visit the palace in the late afternoon to enjoy golden-hour Bosphorus views from the gardens!
History
The Palace and its surroundings is a region (known as the Garden of the Cross) that has hosted different structures since the Byzantine Period. The sultans built many country houses and pavilions on the imperial estate here, and in 1829 Sultan Mahmud II built a wooden waterfront palace.
During the 19th century, the palace building was constructed with the order of Sultan Mahmut II. Later on, Sultan Abdülaziz completely destroyed the building and rebuilt it because of the big damage due to a big fire.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Between the years 1863-65, the Palace gained its present appearance, and covering an area of 3000 square meters with its additional buildings.
Today, the main structure of the Palace including the Mabeyn and Harem sections is open for its guests. The sea pavilions, the historical tunnel connecting Usküdar and Beylerbeyi, the Yellow Pavilion, the Marble Pavilion and the Barn Stables also serve for different purposes.
Our Recommendation: We Booked These Tickets
Since the palace is a popular historical site, booking tickets in advance is the best way to avoid long queues and enjoy a seamless visit.
We opted for the Beylerbeyi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Guide, which allowed us to enter without waiting in line and explore at our own pace with an informative audio guide.
The museum is also included in the Istanbul E-Pass and Istanbul Tourist Pass, making it a great option for travelers looking to visit multiple attractions with one pass.
If you’re planning to visit Beylerbeyi Palace, here’s a breakdown of the best ticket options to help you choose the right one.
Tickets and Prices for Beylerbeyi Palace
Each ticket option provides a different experience. Here’s what you get with each one:
1. Standard Entry Ticket (€25)
✔ Entry to Beylerbeyi Palace, including the main halls, private rooms, and gardens.
❌ No skip-the-line access—you may have to wait in line, especially during peak hours.
❌ No guided tour or audio guide included.
Best for: Visitors who want to explore the palace at their own pace without extra features.
2. Beylerbeyi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Guide (€25) – Our Pick!
✔ Fast-track entry with no waiting in long ticket lines.
✔ Includes an audio guide for a self-guided experience, allowing you to learn about the palace’s history, architecture, and royal residents.
✔ Access to all interior rooms, including the Harem, and the Bosphorus-side gardens.
Best for: Travelers who want a smooth, hassle-free visit with informative narration.
Where Should You Buy Beylerbeyi Palace Tickets?
You can book your ticket:
✔ On site at the ticket counter (expect wait times).
✔ Via trusted online platforms like GetYourGuide for instant confirmation and flexible cancellations.
✔ As part of Istanbul E-Pass or Istanbul Tourist Pass for a multi-attraction experience.
Is the Beylerbeyi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket Worth It?
Yes! Beylerbeyi Palace is a popular attraction, and waiting in line can take 30-45 minutes during peak hours.
✔ If you want to save time, the skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide is the best option.
✔ If you love history and want in-depth details, the audio guide adds a richer experience.
Is Beylerbeyi Palace Included in Istanbul City Passes?
Yes! Beylerbeyi Palace is included in most Istanbul tourist passes, allowing you to explore more sites for less money.
✔ Istanbul E-Pass – Includes Beylerbeyi Palace, along with Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
Our Recommendation: If you plan to visit multiple attractions, Istanbul E-Pass can help you save time and money.
Our Beylerbeyi Palace Experience
Visiting Beylerbeyi Palace Museum was like stepping into a forgotten era of Ottoman luxury, away from the crowds of Topkapi and Dolmabahce Palaces.
Nestled along the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, this stunning summer residence of Sultan Abdülaziz, built in the 1860s, showcases a fusion of Ottoman, Baroque, and Rococo architectural styles.
Unlike other imperial palaces in Istanbul, Beylerbeyi offers a more peaceful experience, allowing visitors to explore lavish interiors, breathtaking gardens, and panoramic Bosphorus views at a relaxed pace.
Getting Into the Palace
✔ Security checks are required before entry, similar to other major palaces.
✔ Skip-the-line tickets are available online, but standard ticket holders may wait in line.
✔ Photography is not allowed inside, but you can capture stunning exterior shots of the palace and gardens.
Tip: Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist hours.
Exploring the Interior of Beylerbeyi Palace
Stepping inside Beylerbeyi Palace Istanbul, we were immediately struck by its opulent decor and European influences. The interior is grand yet intimate, designed for royal retreats rather than formal state affairs.
The Grand Hall
✔ The centerpiece of the palace, featuring an enormous crystal chandelier and a gold-plated fireplace.
✔ High ceilings with intricate carvings and gilded details showcase the craftsmanship of the Ottoman era.
✔ Used for official receptions and welcoming foreign dignitaries, including Empress Eugénie of France.
Tip: Stand in the middle of the hall and look up—the chandelier reflects beautifully in the mirrors, creating a mesmerizing effect.
The Harem Section
The Harem was the private quarters of the Sultan and his family, offering a glimpse into their daily lives. Though smaller than the Harem at Topkapi Palace, it’s beautifully decorated and filled with history.
✔ Includes intimate family rooms, each with handcrafted ceilings and delicate furnishings.
✔ Features traditional Ottoman baths, decorated with marble and Iznik tiles.
✔ Less crowded than Topkapi’s Harem, allowing for a quieter and more immersive experience.
The Stunning Gardens
One of the most impressive features of Beylerbeyi Palace is its expansive gardens, covering 200,000 square meters. Walking through them felt like a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets.
✔ The gardens are filled with cypress, magnolia, and palm trees, creating a lush, serene environment.
✔ Terraces and fountains add to the elegance, making it a perfect place to relax and take photos.
✔ The Bosphorus breeze enhances the overall experience, making it a great spot to unwind after touring the interior.
Tip: Walk toward the waterfront terrace for the best Bosphorus views and a perfect photo opportunity.
Beylerbeyi Palace with Kids – What to Know
✔ Children under 6 enter for free, making it a family-friendly destination.
✔ Strollers are allowed in the gardens, but not inside the palace.
✔ Guided tours help keep kids engaged with the stories of Ottoman sultans and visiting European royals.
Family Tip: Kids will love running through the gardens and exploring the outdoor areas, so plan for extra time outside!
Visitor Information & Tips
Location
The Beylerbeyi Palace Museum is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, in the Üsküdar district, right along the Bosphorus shoreline. View on Google Maps
Opening Hours
✔ Open Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
✔ Closed on Mondays
✔ Last entry at 4:30 PM
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
🎟️ Tickets
Please cross check hours and admissions from millisaraylar.gov.tr
Visiting Tips
✔ Take your time exploring the interiors—the lavish chandeliers, gold accents, and intricate frescoes make it one of the most beautiful Ottoman palaces.
✔ Visit the Harem Section—this is where the Sultan and his family lived, and it’s beautifully preserved.
✔ Walk through the stunning gardens—they cover 200,000 square meters and feature palm trees, fountains, and breathtaking Bosphorus views.
✔ Photography is not allowed inside, so focus on capturing the palace’s stunning exterior and gardens.
✔ Wear comfortable shoes, as some outdoor areas have cobblestone pathways.
Accessibility
✔ The palace is partially wheelchair accessible, but some upper sections require stair access.
✔ Wide outdoor pathways make exploring the gardens easier for visitors with mobility challenges.
Tip: If you’re looking for a more accessible Ottoman palace experience, Dolmabahce Palace offers better mobility-friendly options.
Parking Opportunities
✔ No dedicated parking lot, but visitors can park along the Bosphorus near Beylerbeyi Pier.
✔ ISPARK locations are available nearby for paid parking.
Nearby Attractions
Beylerbeyi Palace is located in Üsküdar, a district rich in Ottoman history and waterfront views. Some great nearby attractions include:
✔ Çamlıca Hill – One of Istanbul’s highest points, offering panoramic views of the city and Bosphorus.
✔ Kuzguncuk Neighborhood – A charming area filled with historic wooden houses, cozy cafés, and an artistic vibe.
✔ Mihrimah Sultan Mosque – A masterpiece by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, located near Üsküdar Pier.
✔ Üsküdar Market & Fish Bazaar – A vibrant area where you can explore local food, Turkish sweets, and street vendors.
✔ Çengelköy – A picturesque Bosphorus-side district known for authentic Turkish breakfast spots and tea gardens.
Tip: After visiting Beylerbeyi Palace, take a short drive or ferry ride to Çamlıca Hill for a breathtaking sunset!
How to Get There?
The most practical way to get to Beylerbeyi is via public bus from Uskudar.
The palace is about 3,4 km. from Uskudar Public Ferry Port.
It is possible to access Uskudar;
- From Kadikoy; by public buses or shared taxis (dolmus),
- From Besiktas, by public ferries or boats,
- From Sultanahmet and Eminonu, by Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line) to Sirkeci and than from Sirkeci via the Marmaray, or from Eminonu by public ferries.
You may see the public bus routes and timetables as well as make a route/station search from the Istanbul Municipality Public Busses website. Also check the Istanbul Railway Network Map for the Tram stops and Istanbul Ferry Lines Map for ferries.
If you don’t want to visit the palace by entering inside, you can see it from see and take picture by one of Bosphorus cruises.
Is Beylerbeyi Palace Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Beylerbeyi Palace Museum is a hidden treasure that provides a unique and more relaxed alternative to Dolmabahçe and Topkapi Palaces.
✔ If you love history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking Bosphorus views, this imperial summer palace is a must-visit.
✔ If you want to escape the crowds, Beylerbeyi provides a peaceful yet equally opulent experience.
✔ If you’re exploring the Asian side, it’s a great stop alongside Üsküdar, Kuzguncuk, and Çengelköy.
Best Case? Visit in the afternoon, stroll through the gardens, and catch a sunset over the Bosphorus for an unforgettable experience!