Topkapı Palace
The sultans’ palace on Sarayburnu: courtyards, the Imperial Council, the treasury and the terraces over the water. Dated entry, sold online on its own site.
Southeastern Anatolia
Museums in Mardin
2 museums and archaeological sites in the province of Mardin, with hours and what to see at each.
Mardin
Dara Archaeological Site
A sixth-century Roman fortress city in Mardin province, founded by Emperor Anastasius on the edge of Mesopotamia, in the foothills of the Tur Abdin.
Visitor guide
Mardin
Mardin Museum
A former Syriac Catholic patriarchate of 1895 in Mardin's old town, now home to Mesopotamian archaeology, halls on faith and trade, and fine local silverwork.
Visitor guideOther cities in the region
Istanbul tickets online
Four Istanbul landmarks, each sold on its own site by the agency behind this guide — dated entry and free cancellation up to 24 hours.
Basilica Cistern
Justinian’s great underground reservoir: 336 columns in still water and the two Medusa heads. Fast-track entry with a digital audio guide.
Hagia Sophia
Justinian’s cathedral, the sultans’ mosque and a working mosque again today. The ticket admits you to the upper visitor gallery.
Dolmabahçe Palace
A nineteenth-century palace on the water’s edge: the Selamlık, the Ceremonial Hall under its chandelier, the crystal staircase and the Harem.