Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi)
Abdullahağa Caddesi, Üsküdar, Istanbul, TUR
Located in the shadow of Istanbul’s first bridge, Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) was historically a summer residence for Ottoman sultans. The 24 rooms of the palace contain a mix of Ottoman and Western decoration, with 19th-century furniture from Europe and garden pavilions, and its ornate exterior is visible from the Bosphorus Strait.
Though more restrained than the elaborate Dolmabahce Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace is still a luxurious Ottoman residence. The palace has neo-baroque architecture, crystal chandeliers, and a large marble pool. Sultan Abdulhamid II carved some of the palace furniture when he was imprisoned here until the end of his life.
Some Istanbul sightseeing tours combine Beylerbeyi Palace with a visit to Dolmabahce Palace and sights on the Asian side of Istanbul, including Camlica Hill. Join a Bosphorus cruise and easily spot the palace from the water.
Beylerbeyi Palace is a must-visit for Ottoman history and architecture buffs.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the palace.
The palace has a garden café, where you can enjoy a glass of Turkish tea.
Beylerbeyi Palace is located in the eponymous neighborhood and is accessible by public bus and shared cabs (dolmus). It’s easiest to reach by taxi from the Uskudar or Kadikoy district, on the city’s Asian side. Some Bosphorus cruises also stop at the palace.
Beylerbeyi Palace is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday through Sunday from 9am to late afternoon; it has shorter hours November through March. Major national and religious Turkish holidays can affect opening hours. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds in the palace and at the attached tea garden; both can get busy in the afternoon.
Beylerbeyi Palace is perched on the Bosphorus Strait and has a nautical theme that runs through the decorations inside, thanks to the passion Sultan Abdulaziz had for the sea. Paintings on the wall and designs on the ceiling depict water-and-ship-themed images, and the palace is dotted with fountains and pools.
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