Plan your visits to Istanbul in 2025: prices and practical advice
Istanbul, a true open-air museum, is full of historical and cultural treasures that attract visitors from all over the world. This practical guide will help you know the prices, timetables and essential advice to organize your visits with complete peace of mind.
The unmissable monuments and their prices
Sainte-Sophie (Ayasofya)
A Byzantine masterpiece turned mosque, Hagia Sophia impresses with its majestic dome and rich cultural heritage.
- Prices: 33.50 € (1.196 TL) with audio guide / 39 € (1.413 TL) with guided tour
- Open every day, except during Friday prayers
- The prayer area located on the first floor is only accessible to Turkish citizens
- Correct attire required: if you do not have a scarf or vest, you can buy them at the entrance (the scarf costs €2 and the vest €3)
Sainte Sophie: details on the new access arrangements
Mosquée Bleue (Blue Mosque)
Famous for its six minarets and Iznik tiles, the Blue Mosque is a jewel of Ottoman architecture.
- Tariff: free / 15 € (543 TL) with guided tour one hour
- Open every day, except during prayers
- Proper attire required
Palais de Topkapı et Harem
Former residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapı Palace reveals priceless treasures and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
- Prices: 59.90 € (2.138 TL) with skip-the-line and audio guide / 79 € (2.862 TL) with guided tour
- Closed on Tuesday
- Open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Dolmabahçe Palace
A symbol of Ottoman opulence, the Dolmabahçe Palace charms with its architectural splendor and its setting on the edge of the Bosphorus.
- Prices: 44.90 € (1.630 TL) with skip-the-line, audio guide and harem access
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Closed on Monday
Citerne Basilique (Basilica Cistern)
Istanbul’s underground jewel, the Basilica Cistern fascinates with its majestic columns and its unique atmosphere.
- Prices: 34 € (1.231 TL) with skip-the-line / 37 € (1.340 TL) with skip-the-line and audio guide
- Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Tour de Galata (Galata Tower)
Built on the heights of Beyoğlu, the Galata Tower offers an exceptional panoramic view of Istanbul.
- Prices: 37.50 € (1.340 TL) / 44 € (1.593 TL) with audio guide
- Open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Tour de Léandre (Maiden’s Tower)
Perched on an islet in the Bosphorus, Maiden’s Tower embodies mystery and romance with its many legends.
- Tariff: 32 € (1.159 TL) with skip-the-line and audio guide
- Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Boat trips from Karaköy Pier (boat price not included in ticket)
New price, new access: what you need to know before visiting Maiden’s Tower
The must-see museums and their prices
Istanbul Archaeological Museum
A mecca of history, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum houses millennia-old artifacts from all over Anatolia.
- Tariff: 15 € (543 TL)
- Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
With its captivating exhibitions, the Museum of Modern Art is a window into the contemporary art scene.
- International visitor rates:
- 19 € (688 TL) full price
- 12 € (434 TL) reduced rate (students and over 65)
- Turkish resident rates:
- 11 € (398 TL) full price
- 6 € (217 TL) reduced rate (students, teachers and over 65)
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Free for visitors residing in Türkiye between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Thursdays
- Free for young people residing in Türkiye aged 18 to 25 between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Tuesdays
Museum of Painting and Sculpture
This museum brings together remarkable works which trace the evolution of Turkish art since the 19th century.
- International visitor rates:
- 8 € (289 TL) full price
- Turkish resident rates:
- 3.30 € (108 TL) full price
- 1.65 € (72 TL) reduced rate (students over 18 years old)
- Free for children aged 0-18, Turkish citizens aged 65 and over, veterans, teachers
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (8:00 p.m.* on Tuesday)
Museum Pass Istanbul and Istanbul E-pass: what are the differences?
To facilitate your visits to Istanbul, two main tourist cards are available: the Museum Pass Istanbul and the Istanbul E-pass. Each offers specific benefits depending on your interests and the length of your stay.
Museum Pass Istanbul
- Prix : 105 € (1.750 TL)
- Validity : 5 consecutive days from first use.
- Attractions included : 13 major sites, such as the Topkapı Palace (including the Harem), the Galata Tower, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts.
- Benefits :
- Interesting savings for those who want to visit several museums.
- Direct access without queuing for the included sites.
- Limits :
- Focuses exclusively on museums and historical sites managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
- Does not include additional activities, such as cruises or shows.
Istanbul E-pass
- Prix : varies depending on the duration chosen:
- 2 days: around €115 (4,163 TL)
- 3 days: around €135 (4,889 TL)
- 5 days: around €165 (5,976 TL)
- 7 days: around €180 (6,619 TL)
- Validity : flexible, available for 2, 3, 5 or 7 consecutive days.
- Attractions included : more than 50 activities, including guided tours, Bosphorus cruises, whirling dervish shows and even airport transfers.
- Benefits :
- A complete offer to discover Istanbul beyond the museums.
- Convenient digital access with contactless entry.
- Customer support available via WhatsApp.
- Limits :
- Higher cost, offset by the diversity of activities offered.
- Some activities require prior reservation.
Which card to choose?
Opt for the Museum Pass Istanbul if:
- You are passionate about history and want to visit several museums et monuments emblematic cultural events.
- Are you looking for a economical option and simple for a stay focused on historical sites.
Opt for the Istanbul E-pass if:
- You want a varied tourist experienceincluding cruises, shows, and guided tours.
- You appreciate the flexibility and additional services like airport transfers.
Practical advice for your visits
- Plan your schedules : Most monuments open between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Some close on a specific day of the week, such as Topkapı Palace (Tuesday) or Dolmabahçe Palace (Monday).
- Buy your tickets online : this will allow you to avoid queues and save time.
- Respect local rules : for mosques, correct attire is required (veils for women available on site).
- Discounts : Turkish students often benefit from reduced rates upon presentation of their student card.
An unforgettable journey to the heart of Istanbul’s treasures
In 2025, discovering the treasures of Istanbul remains an unforgettable experience. Effective planning and knowledge of the options available, such as the Istanbul Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass, will allow you to discover the rich history and culture of this fascinating city. Whether for a first visit or to rediscover these emblematic places, prepare yourself to experience a memorable journey at the crossroads of civilizations.
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