The palace opens at 9am but most tour groups don't arrive until 10:30. That gives you about an hour of relative peace in the gardens, perfect if you're an early riser.

The courtyards and terraces overlooking the Bosphorus are magical when empty. You can actually hear the water and birds instead of tour guides shouting through megaphones. Though afternoon light can be gorgeous for photography, nothing beats morning serenity for contemplation.