Top Museums of Istanbul to visit

Welcome to the best museums in Istanbul, the focal point of tourist attractions and an eye into the past. As Turkey's biggest city, many attractions await visitors who enjoy themed travel. With extensive collections of artefacts that portray this country's rich history, these must-see collections impress millions of visitors annually.

Additionally, they offer a deeper understanding of Istanbul and Turkey. History buffs love them, but many other newbies to Turkish history leave with a different sense than the stereotypical impression that most people have of Istanbul. So, here is where to visit for fantastic experiences and background stories.

The Best Museums in Istanbul

1: Glory of the Hagia Sophia

The Turkish government converted the Hagia Sophia back into a mosque. Still, it is one of Istanbul’s top attractions, across from the Blue Mosque in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district. The former church doesn’t display exhibitions or glass-case artefacts because the highlight is the building itself. The first building, originally built by Byzantine emperor Justinian between 532 and 537, was destroyed. Still, rebuilds and restoration efforts have been made since then to keep the glory of this ancient building alive. Walking into the main hall, the large dome dominating the ceiling stuns most visitors.

2: Topkapi Palace: Home to Ottoman Sultans

Dating from the 15th century, Topkapi Palace houses many old artefacts from history’s Ottoman dynasty, which lasted nearly 500 years. The treasury is a startling example of wealth and extravagant lifestyles, shown through jewels, gold, and silver, while the armoury highlights the sometimes humble and sometimes lethal weapons they used.

Walking through Topkapi Palace, visitors can see bizarre clothing trends of Ottoman sultans through original dress items carefully preserved in glass cases. The most valuable collection, though, is the 36 portraits of Ottoman rulers over the years. In addition to portraits painted by commissioned artists, European painters joined in, and the diversity between the two styles highlights different art trends of that time.

3: Istanbul Archaeological

The archaeological museums near the ancient Topkapi Palace hold fine artefacts and have an esteemed reputation respected by historians worldwide. The extensive collection comprises three sections: the main archaeological finds, the Ancient Orient, and Islamic Art. The sarcophagus of Alexander the Great, dating from the 4th century, is the best attraction, but other pieces include the original Egyptian-Hittite peace treaty and many Roman artefacts worldwide.

4: Turkish and Islamic Arts

The small size of this 16th-century building, which sits across from the Hippodrome in Sultanahmet Square, is deceiving because inside are fine examples of Turkish and Islamic art throughout history. As the former home of the Grand Vizier Ibrahim Pasha to ruler Suleyman the Magnificent, the building includes ethnographic permanent collections and rugs and textiles from nomadic tribes that were particularly active during Ottoman times in the 13th and 14th centuries.

5: Museum of Innocence by Orhan Pamuk

Put together by Turkey's most famous male author, the Museum of Innocence, named after one of his most famous novels, is a tale of two lovers separated for life. The male builds a collection of items to remind him of the love he lost, including the cigarette butts and lipstick imprints, and the author replicates this with items from the 20th century.  Audio guides and private guided tours are available, and reading the novel is not essential before visiting; it enhances the experience.

6: Istanbul Museum of Modern Arts

Opened in 2005, this contemporary art museum highlights Istanbul's innovative art scene, attracting many international artists. Its main features are contemporary Turkish art, video, and photography and at various times throughout the years, specific exhibitions highlight an artist or theme. Buying a ticket will never disappoint art lovers, as visitors see an impressive art collection from international and Turkish artists. Sitting inside the Galataport district of Beyoglu, combine Istanbul’s Modern Art building with a trip to the nearby Galata Tower.

7: Pera Museum

Impressive 19th-century art and Anatolian artefacts at this private museum include the famous Ottoman painting by Osman Hamdi Bey called The Tortoise Trainer. Made in 1906, it sold in 2004 for a staggering 3.5 million dollars. The painting signifies the rule of Ottoman sultans at that time and is a metaphor for their slow adaptation to modernisation. Not long after the painting was made, the Ottoman dynasty disbanded and was nicknamed the "sick man of Europe." This event made the painting more famous as many said the artist foresaw a sign of things to come. The Orientalist paintings also earn much fame and admiration.

Bonus Places to Visit

Istanbul Toy Museum

Established in 2005 by the Turkish poet Sunay Akin, this amazing collection showcases childhood memories. With roughly 4000 toys from Turkey and abroad, the collection displays how children's playtime has changed over the years. The fact that children are now more reliant on social media highlights the difference even more. The vast collection of toys sits near what used to be the Eyup toy shop, a favourite place for children growing up in Istanbul in the 1950s.

Istanbul Naval Museum

Founded in 1897, this famous museum in Istanbul’s Besiktas district holds the original chain that blocked Ottoman forces from invading the Byzantine city of Constantinople. It is open daily except Mondays and other historical artefacts depict Ottoman maritime history in all its glory. The 16th-century Ottoman galley Tarihi Kadirga display prominently depicts the historical context.

Panorama 1453 History Museum

This popular museum tells the tale of Istanbul's most famous moment in history, the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. As the world's first full-panoramic exhibition, visitors feel they are in the middle of a battle. With the addition of sound effects, a massive mural with 10,000 figures gives visitors an accurate depiction of events. Sitting close to where the actual walls were breached, online ticket prices are worth the fee.

Dolmabahce Palace

Just as the Ottoman Empire was crumbling in the 19th century, they built a lavish palace. The Dolmabahce Palace far outranked Topkapi Palace in terms of architectural prowess, but the interior decor and design were even more stunning. Visitors tour the Selanik and Harem sections to see the rich Ottoman history. In addition, a separate room was where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of Turkey, died. The clock is set to that exact time.

Pelit Chocolate Museum

First opening its doors in 2013, ticket prices are well worth it for this journey into the delectable world of chocolate. The private collection in Istanbul’s Esenyurt district includes hundreds of models of chocolate-made landmark buildings, including Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. The collection also includes a chocolate workshop for children. Don't eat before visiting because there are plenty of tastings.

Sadberk Hanim

Sitting on the Bosphorus shores in Istanbul’s exclusive Sariyer district, Sadberk Hamin, run by the Koc foundation, opens every day except Wednesdays. Occupying two historical buildings known as Yali Mansions and giving off stunning views, the museum is a dedication to the late Sadberk Hamin. With various collections of ancient artefacts, including the Bronze and Roman ages and Ottoman times, this museum by one of Turkey's wealthiest families is an excellent stop if exploring Bosphorus neighbourhoods.

Tussauds Istanbul

Now, it is time for some fun and an insight into Turkish celebrities, prominent figures, and international stars. Sitting in Istanbul’s Beyoglu district, this museum is ideal to stop by if you are exploring the back streets of Istiklal Avenue. With an affordable entrance ticket, Madame Tussauds in Istanbul is as professional as its counterpart in Istanbul. At the same time, buy combi tickets to Legoland Discovery Centre or the Sealife Aquarium, which children always love.

Should You Buy the Istanbul Museum Card?

The Istanbul Museum pass lasts for five days. It includes entrance fees to iconic collections across the city, including the Istanbul Archaeology, the Erbakan Sarnici, and other beautiful buildings offering unique experiences. Moreover, visitors can save on entrance fees by purchasing online and receive up to 30% discounts on souvenirs in museum shops.

Also About Istanbul

Famous Streets to Explore: These famous streets in Istanbul stand out as much as the museums. Whether for their iconic houses or tales from the past, many end up on Instagram as a must-visit spot while exploring the city. Whether you want to shop, tour attractions, or enjoy the landmarks, these streets should be on your list.

Architecture in Istanbul: The city is also famed for the impressive buildings that line the leading and back streets. From modern architecture, such as mosques, shopping malls, and business centres, to historical architecture from the Ottoman era, these are the buildings to watch out for as you walk between the best museums in Istanbul.