İstanbul
Dolmabahçe Palace stands on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Beşiktaş, Istanbul. Sultan Abdülmecid had it built to replace the older Beşiktaş waterfront palace. Work began in 1843 and ended in 1856, under the architects Garabet and Nikoğos Balyan. The palace has been a museum since 1984.
The Ceremonial Hall lies between the Selamlık, used for state business, and the Harem. The hall covers more than 2,000 m², and a 4.5-tonne chandelier hangs from its 36 m dome. The palace has 285 rooms and 46 halls. Atatürk stayed here at intervals from 1927 and died in the palace on 10 November 1938. The clock tower by the entrance was added under Abdülhamid II.
Take the T1 tram to Kabataş, then walk 10 to 12 minutes along the shore to the main gate. The palace is closed on Mondays, and the Museum Card is not valid for the Selamlık. Guides suggest 2.5 to 3 hours for both wings.