The enigmatic Cariyeler Taşlığı (concubines' quarters), the Turkish bath (hamam) within it, and the Kuşhane Kitchen at Istanbul's renowned Topkapı Palace are now open to visitors following extensive restoration work. 
Nestled in the secluded harem section of the palace, the concubines' quarters illustrate the intricate hierarchy of the Ottoman harem, which comprised the sultan's family, female attendants, concubines, and eunuchs. This section, constructed in the mid-16th century, features rooms used by imperial consorts, as well as a pantry, laundry facilities, and bathrooms.
Approximately 120 artifacts are on display in the hamam section alone. This hamam, one of the palace's oldest structures, has been opened to visitors for the first time ever.
The National Palaces Collections has meticulously curated objects and statues to recreate scenes from the Ottoman era, providing a more immersive experience.
The Kuşhane Kitchen, which exclusively served meals prepared in the palace kitchen to the Ottoman sultans, is now accessible to visitors. Here, guests can view various objects such as bronze and silver pots and silverware, gaining deeper insights into Ottoman culinary and kitchen culture.
Ilhan Kocaman, Chairman of the National Palaces - Topkapı Palace, expressed plans to continue the restoration of the entire palace, with the goal of eventually opening all sections to the public.
The involvement of international museum curators has been crucial in blending tradition with modernity during the restoration of the palace buildings. Their collaboration has resulted in exhibition designs that reflect this fusion and the implementation of state-of-the-art security, air conditioning, display systems, and equipment. These updates ensure the preservation and protection of the palace's invaluable cultural heritage for future generations.
How to get to Topkapı Palace?
Getting to Topkapı Palace in Istanbul is straightforward as it is a major tourist attraction located in the historic Sultanahmet district. Here's a guide on how to reach the palace using various modes of transportation:
By Public Transportation
Using these routes, you can easily reach Topkapı Palace and enjoy your visit to this historical landmark.
Nestled in the secluded harem section of the palace, the concubines' quarters illustrate the intricate hierarchy of the Ottoman harem, which comprised the sultan's family, female attendants, concubines, and eunuchs. This section, constructed in the mid-16th century, features rooms used by imperial consorts, as well as a pantry, laundry facilities, and bathrooms.
Approximately 120 artifacts are on display in the hamam section alone. This hamam, one of the palace's oldest structures, has been opened to visitors for the first time ever.
The National Palaces Collections has meticulously curated objects and statues to recreate scenes from the Ottoman era, providing a more immersive experience.
The Kuşhane Kitchen, which exclusively served meals prepared in the palace kitchen to the Ottoman sultans, is now accessible to visitors. Here, guests can view various objects such as bronze and silver pots and silverware, gaining deeper insights into Ottoman culinary and kitchen culture.
Ilhan Kocaman, Chairman of the National Palaces - Topkapı Palace, expressed plans to continue the restoration of the entire palace, with the goal of eventually opening all sections to the public.
The involvement of international museum curators has been crucial in blending tradition with modernity during the restoration of the palace buildings. Their collaboration has resulted in exhibition designs that reflect this fusion and the implementation of state-of-the-art security, air conditioning, display systems, and equipment. These updates ensure the preservation and protection of the palace's invaluable cultural heritage for future generations.
How to get to Topkapı Palace?
Getting to Topkapı Palace in Istanbul is straightforward as it is a major tourist attraction located in the historic Sultanahmet district. Here's a guide on how to reach the palace using various modes of transportation:
By Public Transportation
- Tram
- Route: The most convenient way is to take the T1 tram line.
- Stop: Get off at the Sultanahmet stop.
- Directions: From Sultanahmet stop, it’s a short walk to Topkapı Palace. Walk towards Hagia Sophia and then head towards the palace, which is well-signposted.
- Bus
- Routes: Several buses stop near Sultanahmet Square. Buses #28, #81, #22, and #80 are some of the options.
- Stop: Alight at a stop near Sultanahmet or Beyazıt, and follow signs to Topkapı Palace.
- Directions: Follow the signs or use a map to find your way from the bus stop to the palace.
- Metro
- Route: Take the M2 line to Vezneciler station or M1A line to Aksaray.
- Transfer: Transfer to the T1 tram at Vezneciler or Aksaray station and head towards Sultanahmet.
- Stop: Get off at Sultanahmet stop.
- Marmaray
- Route: Take the Marmaray line and get off at Sirkeci station.
- Transfer: From Sirkeci, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Topkapı Palace. Head towards the direction of Hagia Sophia and then towards the palace.
- From Taksim: A taxi ride from Taksim Square to Topkapı Palace typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- From the Airport: From Istanbul Airport (IST), a taxi ride to Topkapı Palace takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Tip: Ensure the taxi driver uses the meter, and confirm the destination before starting the trip.
- From Sultanahmet Square: If you’re already in the Sultanahmet area, you can easily walk to Topkapı Palace. It’s located behind the Hagia Sophia, and there are plenty of signs directing visitors.
- Parking: There is limited parking around the Sultanahmet area, so driving might not be the most convenient option due to the scarcity of parking spaces and heavy traffic.
- Route: Follow signs towards Sultanahmet or historical peninsula (Tarihi Yarımada).
- Tickets and Entry: Topkapı Palace is a popular tourist destination, and lines can be long. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time.
- Opening Hours: Check the palace's opening hours before your visit as they can vary, especially on holidays and during winter months.
- Accessibility: The palace is generally accessible, but some areas might have steep steps or uneven paths.
Using these routes, you can easily reach Topkapı Palace and enjoy your visit to this historical landmark.