Topkapi Palace, ah, Topkapi Palace...
You are the quintessential Ottoman Castle. I heart you. (I wouldn't have ever wanted to live in you when the palace was in use... for obvious Women's Rights reasons). In my wanderings I have seen many-a-palace in Paris, St. Petersburg, Denmark, Germany, Rome... All were magnificent. But Topkapi: You. Are. Astonishing.
--
So friends. When you visit Istanbul make sure you give yourself enough time to see the city. It is SO worth it. (
NB: I spent three days there and could have spent much longer. I'm HIGHLY mobile though, and love to walk and cover A LOT of ground when I am out and about exploring, so if you aren't so into walking, give yourself more time.)
FYI:
Audio Guide: Most historic places in Istanbul offer walking audio guide headsets for rent. I gave this system a spin at Topkapi palace and I have to say that I was REALLY not impressed. The translation into English wasn't great and the information offered was bland and uninteresting and not in-depth at all. I'd suggest either buying a book about the palace or hiring a local guide (available in abundance at the palace) if you really want an information-packed tour.
Being so unsatisfied with my audio guide, I put it away and just wandered. It seems to be what I'm best at. Topkapi palace is an enormous, sprawling compound full of amazing treasures.
Lunch:
The restaraunt located inside of Topkapi Palace just may be the most overpriced food establishment in all of Turkey! The food was good, as was the view (of the converging seas). But it was truly, truly ridiculously price. I had a Gyros sandwish, some Baklava and a bottle of water and when I converted my purchase price to USD, I figured I'd spent over $24. ABSURD. As the Palace grounds are quite sprawling and remotely located, I suggest taking a meal, and plenty of water with you.
Random Facts:
Topkapi Palace housed the Royal family of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years of their 600+ year reign. (Between 1465-1856.) At the height of use, Topkapi palace housed more than 4,000 people! In 1924 the palace was turned into a Museum, just three years after the end of the Ottoman Empire.
The palace overlooks the Golden horn and the Sea of Marmara, and also boasts views of the Boshporus.
The Gate of Salutation
The Gate of Felicity
One of the many fountains in the palace
Detailing... everywhere. Amazing.
No clue what this is. But it's awesome.
View of the Bosphorus
Lights and props for a film shoot happening on palace grounds. So cool! I'd love to work on a film that shoots here!
View from the restaurant: Marmara and the Golden Horn.
More info about Topkapi Palace:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkap%C4%B1_Palace
Costs:
Admission: 20 TL (or 9 Euro) (approx $13 US)
Audio Guide: 15 TL (Not worth it though, don't do it!)
Lunch inside the palace: ABSURDLY PRICED.
Optional (seriously though, you shouldn't miss it): Women's Palace/Harem entrance fee: 15TL
