Increase in visitors at Turkish National Palaces despite rising fees

Historical museums and buildings under the National Palaces Presidency have attracted many domestic and foreign tourists in 2024.

In the first half of this year, the number of tourists visiting the Turkish National Palaces increased by 19% to 3,945,741. In the same period of 2023, this number was 3,324,396.

Topkapi Palace led the increase with 2,190,530 visitors, influenced by newly restored and reopened sections.

Despite the substantial increases in ticket prices, tourism to these sites has continued to grow.

The rise in both visitor numbers and entrance fees reflects a strong interest in Türkiye’s cultural heritage and a strategic approach to managing the financial sustainability of these attractions.

List of entrance fees to Turkish National Palaces

Comparison of 2023 and 2024 prices in Türkiye:

• Topkapi Palace combined ticket (Topkapi Palace + Harem + Hagia Irene):
  • 2024: $46.04 (₺1500)
  • Percentage Increase: 57.89%
• Topkapi Palace Harem:
  • 2024: $15.35 (₺500)
  • Percentage Increase: 42.86%
• Hagia Irene:
  • 2024: $15.35 (₺500)
  • Percentage Increase: 66.67%
• Dolmabahce Palace combined ticket (Dolmabahce Palace + National Palaces Painting Museum):
  • 2024: $46.04 (₺1500)
  • Percentage Increase: 57.89%
• Galata Tower:
  • 2024: $32.28 (₺1050)
  • Percentage Increase: 120%

Entrance fees of other famous Turkish sites, museums:

• Beylerbeyi Palace:
  • 2024: $10.74 (₺350)
• Kucuksu Pavilion:
  • 2024: $3.99 (₺130)
• Aynalikavak Pavilion:
  • 2024: $3.99 (₺130)
• Maslak Pavilion:
  • 2024: $3.99 (₺130)
• Ihlamur Pavilion:
  • 2024: $3.99 (₺130)
• Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion:
  • 2024: $3.99 (₺130)
• National Palaces Beykoz Glass and Crystal Museum:
  • 2024: $6.14 (₺200)

Impact of the fee increases in tourist attractions in Türkiye

The number of visitors to museums and historical sites in Türkiye increased by 19% although entrance fees rose significantly. This fee increase reflects efforts to manage financial stability and counteract inflation and currency fluctuations.

• The rise in visitor numbers to the National Palaces shows growing interest in Türkiye’s cultural heritage.

• The substantial fee increases, especially for foreign tourists, indicate a strategic approach to stabilizing revenue.

• These price hikes might affect accessibility and visitor demographics, but the continuous increase in tourist numbers shows sustained interest in historical sites.

This trend shows Türkiye’s commitment to preserving its cultural assets while adapting to economic challenges, ensuring that both domestic and international tourists continue to engage with its rich historical heritage.

You can book your tickets online by using Istanbul e-Pass.