With the recent increases in ticket prices, this is one of the most common questions I see around the Internet. So, let’s talk money – how much will it cost you to see the historical beauty Hagia Sophia and enjoy the exquisite decor of the Ottoman Harem? And is it worth spending your money for these Istanbul top attractions?
Hagia Sophia
₺1222 €25 £22 $29
Is it worth it? Yes, it is! This building is almost 1,500 years old and has witnessed crucial historical events such as the Fourth Crusade and the Conquest of Constantinople.
The building is where Islam and Christianity meet in a literal sense with icons and Jesus and the Virgin Mary surrounding the calligraphic roundels with the names of Allah and Muhammad.
Hagia Sophia possesses heavy energy that will take you on a walk-through time and space.
You can book in advance here.
Topkapı Palace
₺2400 €49 £43 $57 (for upgraded ticket)
The Palace is one of the most expensive landmarks to visit in Istanbul, but I can confirm it’s 100% worth the money. It could take you a whole day, so prepare plenty of time in order to get your money’s worth and experience more of the Ottoman and world history contained in Topkapı.
This is not the ordinary palace I expected – it is comprised of four courts and multiple buildings – each one with its own purpose. Countless exhibitions and artifacts I didn’t even know existed.
Why you should upgrade your ticket:
Harem – besides the intriguing storylines that once took place between the it’s walls, the Harem is simply stunning, full of colour and creative designs. It can act as an inspiration for anyone.
Hagia Irene – the first time I saw it, I thought that it was a real-life location from Game of Thrones. It’s a massive hall with a big cross over what appears to be the altar. It feel haunted and mysterious.
You can book your ticket for Topkapı Palace here.
Basilica Cistern
₺1430 €29 £25 $34
I have not been to Basilica Cistern myself but I am reading mixed reviews. Yes, the famous Medusa Head is there, but some people report the Cistern is not quite what they were expecting. You can do like me and save money while still enjoying underground Istanbul – see below.
You can book your Basilica Cistern tickets here.
Cistern of Theodosius
₺800 €16 £14 $19
Costs less than Basilica Cistern and offers a light show every 15 minutes. The show is captivating and as the Cistern is not that busy, you can sit on the floor and enjoy it multiple times. Just to manage your expectations – it’s one very big underground space with a path built over a thin layer of water. The tall pillars are fascinating and the space feels almost surreal during the light show.
There are evening shows that include Whirling Dervishes – the price is ₺1300.
You can book here.
Bosphorus Cruise
₺448 €8 £7 $9
At this price, there is no excuse not to do it! Seeing Dolmabahce Palace, Büyük Mecidiye Mosque and the Maiden Tower from the water gives you a different perspective of how beautiful they are.
Tip:
Sit on the left on the upper deck when facing the direction of travel – this is how you will always have the best view of the closest shore. The best place to be when you go under the Bosphorus Bridge is the nose of the ship.
Book in advance here.
Galata Tower
₺1467 €30 £26 $35
This is a very busy tower, so the 360° view of Istanbul must be worth it. You can see the Tower from almost every corner of the City, therefore, Galata Tower can most probably offer you the most comprehensive view of Istanbul.
You can book here.
Chora Church / Kariye Mosque
₺978 €20 £17 $23
This is another place in Istanbul where religions meet. Chora Church was built in the 4th century and still stands today, now converted into Kariye Mosque. Chora Church’s unique Christian mosaics are what visitors praise most.
Book your visit here.
Dolmabahçe Palace
₺2043 €42 £37 $49
This imperial Ottoman palace replaced Topkapi Palace as the sultans’ residence. Dolmabahçe was a very expensive project and this is reflected in its interior and exterior. It looks grand with every detail carefully crafted. Here you can see the world’s largest crystal chandelier. Nowadays, the palace is a museum.
Book in advance here.
The Maiden Tower
₺1711 €35 £30 $40 (includes €8 transportation fee)
According to the legend, there was a prophecy that the emperor’s daughter would be killed by a snake. Therefore, he ordered the Maiden Tower to be built and sent the princess there so she could be safe. However, a snake snuck into the castle in a fruit basket and killed the princess. The origin of the tower is believed to date as far back as 408 BC.
Book in advance here.
Palace of the Porphyrogenitus / Tekfur Sarayı Müzesi
₺450 €9 £8 $11
This is a hidden gem that many are not aware of but if you want to see Istanbul from the Walls of Constantinople, this is the place! As it’s not a very popular place, you may get the whole platform on top of the Museum just for yourself and take as many photos of the Golden Horn as you wish.
Book full tour here or buy tickets for the museum at the entrance.
