The former official residence of the sultans can be found on the European shore of the Bosphorus, and on the Asian side lays their summer residence, the Beylerbeyi Palace.

It is not as large or luxuriant as the Dolmabahce Palace, but its gardens, filled with different kinds of trees are truly conducive for the warm Istanbul summer. It also has kiosks and a pool where the sultans used to lounge to soak up the sun and admire the wonderful views of the sea and the ships.

The structure of the Beylerbeyi Palace and its adornments are largely European, with Bohemian crystal chandeliers, intricately designed furniture, French clocks, and vases that were imported from China, Japan, and France and all over Turkey. The palace is open to the public, but photography and filming are not allowed.