Local Guides World
Top Museums in Beyoğlu, Turkey
Top Rated Museums in Beyoğlu
Top Reviewed Museums in Beyoğlu
Pera Museum
Pera Museum
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Orhan Kemal Museum
Istanbul Cinema Museum
Galata Mevlevihanesi Müzesi
The Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews
Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Akbank Sanat Kütüphane
Adam Mickiewicz Museum
Beyoğlu, a district in Istanbul, Turkey, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and art. It's a place where the past meets the present, and this dynamic fusion is brilliantly showcased in its museums. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the best museums in Beyoğlu, ensuring your visit is a cultural odyssey that leaves you enriched and inspired.
1. Istanbul Modern
Kickstart your exploration at Istanbul Modern, the city's contemporary art hub. It boasts an impressive collection of Turkish and international modern art, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations.
2. Pera Museum
For a deeper dive into art and culture, head to the Pera Museum. It features a diverse range of art, from Anatolian weights and measures to Orientalist paintings, offering a unique perspective on Turkey's heritage.
3. Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (İstanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi)
Don't be confused; there are two "modern" museums in Beyoğlu. The Istanbul Museum of Modern Art complements its contemporary art with stunning views of the Bosphorus, creating an immersive experience.
4. Salt Beyoğlu
Salt Beyoğlu is an institution dedicated to exploring contemporary culture. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, and discussions, making it a dynamic space for cultural exchange.
5. The Museum of Innocence (Masumiyet Müzesi)
Created by Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk, the Museum of Innocence is a unique concept museum. It's based on his novel and showcases objects related to the book's characters and their lives.
6. Istanbul Naval Museum (Deniz Müzesi)
Dive into Turkey's maritime history at the Istanbul Naval Museum. It features an extensive collection of naval artifacts, from historic ships to maritime art.
7. Galata Mevlevi House Museum (Galata Mevlevihanesi Müzesi)
Explore the spiritual heritage of Turkey at the Galata Mevlevi House Museum. It was once a dervish lodge and now offers insights into the mysticism of the Mevlevi Order.
8. The Museum of Turkish Jews (Türk Musevisi Müzesi)
Discover the rich history of the Jewish community in Turkey at the Museum of Turkish Jews. It showcases artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight their contributions.
9. Istanbul Toy Museum (İstanbul Oyuncak Müzesi)
For a delightful experience, visit the Istanbul Toy Museum. It houses an extensive collection of toys, from vintage dolls to miniature cars, appealing to visitors of all ages.
10. The Rahmi M. Koç Museum (Rahmi M. Koç Müzesi)
The Rahmi M. Koç Museum is a paradise for technology and transportation enthusiasts. It displays a wide range of objects, from classic cars to submarines, showcasing Turkey's industrial history.
Conclusion
Beyoğlu's museums are windows into the soul of Istanbul, offering glimpses of its rich heritage, vibrant art scene, and diverse culture. Whether you're admiring contemporary art at Istanbul Modern, delving into the past at the Pera Museum, or exploring the unique concept of the Museum of Innocence, each museum in Beyoğlu adds a layer to your understanding of this eclectic district.
So, plan your visit, explore these must-see museums, and let them be your guides on a remarkable journey through art, history, and the cultural treasures of Beyoğlu. These museums promise to leave you inspired and with a deeper appreciation of this vibrant part of Istanbul, where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously.
Reviews
Very small museum but worth to visit if you are around :)
Like finding a pearl in the ocean. Small museum but giving you a sense of who was the poet and what unique was his literary achievement
I definitely recommend visiting with children. A very interesting place. There is a cafe on site. We spent the whole day there and weren't even tired.
Nowadays, it has been restored and reopened for its 30th anniversary, and they have divided and shared the covers of the art magazine they previously published, according to years, in a way specific to their 30th anniversary. This will be one of the most important art exhibition spots on Istiklal Street in the future. You can see the last 30 years now, but it is an art exhibition spot that you should always have on hand.
By far one of the best interactive museums I have visited.
The four star is because many of the exhibits had their descriptions in only Turkish.
Rest, it was splendid.
Many amazing exhibits, working models and immense knowledge.
My favourites would be the ‘how it works?’, locomotives, Cars and outdoor exhibition.
The four star is because many of the exhibits had their descriptions in only Turkish.
Rest, it was splendid.
Many amazing exhibits, working models and immense knowledge.
My favourites would be the ‘how it works?’, locomotives, Cars and outdoor exhibition.
First of all, I wanted to say that everyone should definitely go to this museum. People coming from abroad, during your trip to Istanbul, you definitely have a travel list that includes historical squares with historical monuments, but Rahmi Koç Museum is usually overlooked.
One of the most important things that makes this museum a museum is that you will be able to find every piece of modern history you can think of in the form of a collection here.
You will be able to see the process of cars from past to present, you will be able to see all kinds of classic cars, you will be able to see classic motorcycles, you will be able to see sailboats, sea boats, you will be able to see models of ships, something you have never seen in the collection, old musical instruments and many more things.
I have only one piece of advice for you, and that is to devote one day to this museum, there is an inventory that you can browse from morning to evening. You will take lots of photos, read the articles and listen to the works. If you do not do this, you will not be able to enjoy this museum.
I wanted to put a few car photos I took here. I hope everyone who visits will have fun.
One of the most important things that makes this museum a museum is that you will be able to find every piece of modern history you can think of in the form of a collection here.
You will be able to see the process of cars from past to present, you will be able to see all kinds of classic cars, you will be able to see classic motorcycles, you will be able to see sailboats, sea boats, you will be able to see models of ships, something you have never seen in the collection, old musical instruments and many more things.
I have only one piece of advice for you, and that is to devote one day to this museum, there is an inventory that you can browse from morning to evening. You will take lots of photos, read the articles and listen to the works. If you do not do this, you will not be able to enjoy this museum.
I wanted to put a few car photos I took here. I hope everyone who visits will have fun.
I went just after 10am Saturday morning. Agreed with all the other reviews. There’s lot to see and it’s well kept. More staff that visitors. Couldn’t find a decent map of the museums and when I did, I ended up trying to translate. It’s not very informative when it comes to explaining what’s on show. Worth a visit. I did it all in under 2 hours but some areas of more interest than others.
I visited this place on Monday when the museum is supposed to be closed. But the keeper kindly letted me in. I was surprised to see nothing mentioning Belarus in the history of Adam Mickiewicz there. Apart from that, the quality of exposition is pretty high. Museum is small, half an hour is enough to see everything.
Please, note, a short movie is available only in Polish with Turkish subtitles.
P. S. I edited the open hours
Please, note, a short movie is available only in Polish with Turkish subtitles.
P. S. I edited the open hours
Still the best industrial museum of the EU region. Well managed very interesting. You can spend up to 5 hr if you really want to digest every section. Get ready to walk min 8000 steps.
A must visit museum in Istanbul that is great for the whole family. It is next to the Golden Horn so gives amazing views at water level, has a very good restaurant and the museum itself never ceases to surprise me with new things despite having gone there several times. Perfect for kids as they will find boats, trains, cars, airplanes and every other possible mode of transportation that has ever existed in there. This is a great place to learn about the Industrial Revolution, about the automotive industry, about how olive oil used to be made, and just so much more. One review really does not do it justice, you have to go there and enjoy it. It can be busy on weekends but even then it is big that it never feels cramped. The pictures I uploaded are from the side of the museum that are located across the street from the main building as it is often forgotten by visitors and I only discovered it existed a few months ago!
Istanbul Modern stands as a premier venue for contemporary art in Turkey, displaying a mix of local and international artists. It's a cultural hub where visitors can explore a diverse array of modern artworks, engage with interactive installations, and participate in educational events, encapsulating the vibrant spirit of Istanbul's art scene.
One of the best museums in the city, especially if you’re interested in contemporary art.
It’s also easy to access (T1 Tram - Tophane Stop).
Don’t miss out the terrace which offers a great view to some of the landmarks of the city.
Some exhibitions are permanent, some are temporary.
It’s also easy to access (T1 Tram - Tophane Stop).
Don’t miss out the terrace which offers a great view to some of the landmarks of the city.
Some exhibitions are permanent, some are temporary.
Amazing experience.
The building is absolutely stunning and the expo is really interesting and entertaining.
Also everybody in the staff was really friendly, patient and helpful.
Would definitely recommend
The building is absolutely stunning and the expo is really interesting and entertaining.
Also everybody in the staff was really friendly, patient and helpful.
Would definitely recommend
One of my first experience with modern art and it was very interesting actually. I would recommend you to have this experience and it is not so pricy.
For tourist, 350₺(10/2023) and for Turkish people, 180₺.
Start from the last floor, explore, and go down using the stairs. Recommend to give 1-2 hours.
For tourist, 350₺(10/2023) and for Turkish people, 180₺.
Start from the last floor, explore, and go down using the stairs. Recommend to give 1-2 hours.
Such a beautiful place, lots of good and cheap souvenirs in the vicinity.
It was beyond my imagination. You can see amazing art from different artists.
You can also read the description of each hall at its entrance.
There are a few places to sit which was great for relaxing.
You have to buy a ticket. See the price on their website.
However, if and only if you have a type of Turkish residence permit, you can visit for free every Thursday from 10:00 to 14:00.
You can also read the description of each hall at its entrance.
There are a few places to sit which was great for relaxing.
You have to buy a ticket. See the price on their website.
However, if and only if you have a type of Turkish residence permit, you can visit for free every Thursday from 10:00 to 14:00.
A small portable and compact museum in a very interesting area of Istanbul - not too far from Istiklal.
Amazing film museum! On the 1st and 2nd floors there are permanent exhibitions about the history of cinema and Turkish cinema. On the 3rd and 4th floors there are new exhibitions every season.
One of the best Turkish delicacies to be found here.must visit place
Great display of the history of the Jewish people in Turkey and Istanbul in particular. A small museum with a fruendly staff near the popular Galata Tower tourist site. Remember to bring your passport (or a picture of it) or some other government issued picture ID to clear the security at the entrance.
This wonderful art space was created and opened this year. The ideas of modern art are not close to me, but it is a good place to spend a couple of hours trying to solve the basic ideas through modern techniques. The terrace upstairs is beautiful and overlooks the city in 360 degrees.
Amazing modern art gallery. You have to go up to the roof for one of the best curated views of Istanbul. The art work on display was cutting edge and well presented.
It was one of the best mine experiences in Istanbul - cause the city is for sure art-friendly place. The exhibitions were great and really important, because in my history major I've seen the pieces only on Google pictures and to see them in real life is worth every coin and minute spent
Great museum for all ages! The vehicle collection is huge and it includes cars, bicycles, motorcycles, planes and boats. Unfortunately, the submarine is taken away from the museum for the moment, but there are many other things to see there! You can also see how a car engine works or how household objects function. Definetly recommend!
Nice museum, just reopened this year . Well situated next to Galata port mall , Restaurants. There is a nice terrace as well on the top . The library is offering nice options and gifts . Only 2 floors but the exhibitions were nice . As always tourists pay twice the price than the local ones .
Very nice, I recommend! it is a complex and varied museum where you can find both ships, trains, old collector cars, as well as engines, airplanes and many others. You spend at least 4-5 hours visiting it, they also have very nice and relaxing places, where you can have a snack, at reasonable prices. We served tea on a boat with a very beautiful view. You can also board some trains, a plane, a ship.
Splendid place. Entrance fee was 120 TRY, you can purchase a keyring aswell. You are allowed to take photographs in the Museum and the Synagogue. There were airport-like security checks at the entrance. Museum was extremely informative and the Synagogue was very pleasant. Overall highly recommended, a must-visit.
Mandatory visit, the permanent collection is already worth it itself.
I'm ashamed to say I didn't know many of the exhibited artists, and thanks to this museum I'm now aware and have taken notes of many names to do a more proper research by myself now, back at home.
I was mesmerized by the rich artworks shown here, and happy - because I've been only for a few nights in the city, and in such place, with cultural importance and many key points and traces from history everywhere, I was feeling insecure and almost guilty from not visiting the Archeological Museum, for example - where I'll go to once I return to amazing Istanbul.
To me, it paid off: in contrast to Hagia Sofia, the Cistern, and other enclaves, seeing this other part, more modern, of Turkish art and movements, was great and worked as a parenthesis while it rained outside.
You can buy the tickets in advance at their website.
I'm ashamed to say I didn't know many of the exhibited artists, and thanks to this museum I'm now aware and have taken notes of many names to do a more proper research by myself now, back at home.
I was mesmerized by the rich artworks shown here, and happy - because I've been only for a few nights in the city, and in such place, with cultural importance and many key points and traces from history everywhere, I was feeling insecure and almost guilty from not visiting the Archeological Museum, for example - where I'll go to once I return to amazing Istanbul.
To me, it paid off: in contrast to Hagia Sofia, the Cistern, and other enclaves, seeing this other part, more modern, of Turkish art and movements, was great and worked as a parenthesis while it rained outside.
You can buy the tickets in advance at their website.
It was a wonderful experience, a highlight of Modern Day Istanbul art scene. The location is beautiful, the building itself is an art form sort of, the museum’s collection is interesting and unexpected sometimes. The exhibitions were informative with detailed texts explaining the artworks. I also liked the roof of the museum that has a gorgeous view of the historic city center.
Cheap entry price and beautiful current exhibitions, especially the top two floors about Göpeklitepe shot by Isabel Muñoz. I didn’t know about Göpeklitepe before and it’s exactly the kind of thing I’m curious about, plus the images were stunning, evocative, solidly installed. Gorgeous!
I visited the Steve Mcurry exhibition. The building reminds you of classic architecture.
such a cool experience. a lot to see there. super entertaining. worth a visit.
Somewhat on a small side, but there are some interesting artworks. The roof terrace provides great views over the city and the Bosporus. The building itself seems to be opened quite recently, so it's easy to navigate and pleasant to be in. There is a huge elevator, so wheelchairs and strollers are not a problem.
Overall this place is worth a visit.
Overall this place is worth a visit.
Phenomenal gallery with a huge variety of works on display. All types of art, media, sculptures, interactive exhibits and more. We absolutely loved our time there. Definitely a must see while in Istanbul.
I was a foreign student attending school in Turkey. When I visited this museum, I really liked it because in addition to the beautiful and interesting museums, the staff here were very kind and friendly. I really like how they serve visitors in the ticket section.
One of the beautiful and well organized museums of Istanbul. Osman Hamdi Bey is a museum that is always worth seeing with its collection and periodical exhibitions. Free on Fridays from 6 to 10 pm.
Very small and compact museum located in an interesting area of Istanbul - extremely close (and so different) from the surrounding areas, especially Istiklal.
I was pleasantly surprised at this new modern side of Istanbul. The museum isn't very big but it also has nice rooftop terrace views. It's a different experience. I think the museum would do well with even more interactive rooms.
I go to the museum each time i visit Istanbul , the variety of topics attract me to come whenever new exhibition happen , the place is well organised, i recommend art lovers to visit
The museum offers a good amount of paintings and pictures (they were present as part of the temporary exhibition, so you may not get to see them) that were spread on 5 floors. It's an enjoyable experience and if you love art or plan to stay a week or so in the city, you can definitely have a look.
Very compact but cozy museum
Great art opportunity and escape from the street chaoes ! The receptionist was helpful and the exhibition offered stunning modern and interactive art pieces.
Only downside is that a location is little unclear, took some time to find it :)
Truly a hidden gem in the heart of Istanbul !
Only downside is that a location is little unclear, took some time to find it :)
Truly a hidden gem in the heart of Istanbul !
The 500th Anniversary Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews is a museum in the building of the Neve Shalom synagogue in Istanbul. It was established to provide information about the traditions and history of Turkish Jews. The 500th Anniversary Foundation was established by Turkish citizens, consisting of Jews and Muslims, to celebrate the arrival of the Sephardic peoples to the Ottoman Empire 500 years ago. With the great support of the Kamhi family, the idea of the museum was brought to life. A beautiful and warm building. The museum is worth seeing. Also, the historic synagogue is very fascinating.
In the Istanbul Cinema Museum we found a great exhibition dedicated to the work of Stanley Kubrick. Totally worth to see!
This is an interesting museum. Understandably there is a lot of security. The blonde lady from whom I bought the ticket was very unfriendly. It would be nice to welcome visitors with a bit of charm and kindness.
Always attractive exhibitions... Osman Hamdi Bey's famous Tortoise Trainer welcomes you on the 2nd floor... Not so crowded ... A cosy cafe and art shop at the exit.. i never regret going there
I visited the museum three times, and each time, I had a profound and moving experience. The exhibitions are great with cutting, deep, and thought-provoking and inspiring messages. It's always nice to walk around the artistic spaces, and it feels like you're walking around alone, even if there are a lot of people. The staff is nice. I recommend ending the tour at the cafe on the first floor:)
What a beautiful museum exploring this mystical branch of Islam and it’s influence during the Ottoman Empire. Lovely displayed, ornate exhibits and impressive hall for the twirling. Also right next to Galata so easy to do if you’re in the area and included as part of the Istanbul museum pass
Tiny but a wonderful slice of history. Could have more things in English.
A good way to understand the heart of the city through its artists.
A good way to understand the heart of the city through its artists.
Very inspirational, security is there and the neighborhood is friendly and safe. May his soul rest in peace.
A very interesting museum for film lovers. Lots of interactive exhibits. until March 2023 there is an exhibition dedicated to Stanley Kubrick
After the renovations, this place has turned into a must-see must-visit spot for anyone who loves movies. Make sure that you have enough time to explore the permanent collection which houses historical cinema related items such as projectors, scripts, cameras etc. Don't forget to visit the temporary exhibition which at the time of my visit had the Stanley Kubrick collection. Amazing!
I'm not Sufi, but I found it fascinating as a Muslim. It was a great chance to read their explanation of their practices and beliefs. I even visited the graves and prayed for the dead. My only disappointment was not seeing the dervishes. Educational at the very least.
Nice
It is a wonderful building built in the European style during the Ottoman period. It is a pleasant museum where you will find a lot of information about Turkish cinema.
Interesting museum for anybody who wants information and history about the whirling dervish people. It wasn't at all busy so I felt I had the place to myself most of the time. Interesting house, cemetery and great hall and peaceful garden to sit in to switch off from the hustle and bustle of the area outside.
Eine friedliche, ruhige Oase mitten im quirligen Galataviertel, wenn man sich denn darauf einlässt. Man bekommt in diesem Museum einen kleinen Einblick in Mevlevi-Orden.
Die Sanitäranlagen sind sehr veraltet und sollten zeitnah modernisiert und umgebaut werden.
Die Sanitäranlagen sind sehr veraltet und sollten zeitnah modernisiert und umgebaut werden.
Can't recommend this museum enough! The exhibits were thoughtfully curated, and thoroughly explained. I loved the way it shed some light on how religious differences are perceived and tolerated by the Turks. Each museum entry ticket also grants you access to the adjoining synagogue, so you get the full experience.
Near to Galata Tower and very close to Tunel's İstaklal street exit. This historichal place is include a library and graves. Rumi's idea 'peace and love' living in this 'Mevlevihane'. Every year, first week of jun you can see 'Semazens' while they are pray and your soul became a bird if you can understand why they are turning...
Excellent insight about jewish people innovative welcoming exhibition inc working synagogue
Galata Mevlevi Lodge Museum
I have been living in Istanbul for the last 50+ years, saw almost all the museums and cultural places, but missed this very important historic lodge.
The Galata Mevlevi Lodge was established in 1491, and became a museum in 2011.
This is a historical center where whirling dance ceremonies are regularly performed.
The ground floor is where exhibits of Mevlevi Culture are displayed. But the most important is on the first floor where the Sema area is located. The floor is covered with walnut wood. The ceiling displays beautiful ornaments.
Any visit to Istanbul should definitely include this cultural heritage.
The place is very easy to reach. It is located at one end of İstiklal street, next to the Tünel gate.
I have been living in Istanbul for the last 50+ years, saw almost all the museums and cultural places, but missed this very important historic lodge.
The Galata Mevlevi Lodge was established in 1491, and became a museum in 2011.
This is a historical center where whirling dance ceremonies are regularly performed.
The ground floor is where exhibits of Mevlevi Culture are displayed. But the most important is on the first floor where the Sema area is located. The floor is covered with walnut wood. The ceiling displays beautiful ornaments.
Any visit to Istanbul should definitely include this cultural heritage.
The place is very easy to reach. It is located at one end of İstiklal street, next to the Tünel gate.
There are no whirling dance ceremonies due to covid but its garden is a place to sit for hours when I need “silence” . The graveyard in the garden is called as “ Silent House” . Per the Mevlevi belief , they are not dead. They are still present and still aware. They are just silent until the judgment day.
Need to know writer
It’s quite nice place to visit and it’s generally informative.
However, entering this museum is very hectic and isn’t a pleasant experience..! You have to hand your ID, get searched with metal detectors as if you are entering an airport.. then a huge, black steel door is opened.. to be honest, that was a little creepy..! But once you get through this unpleasant journey, you can find a lot of interesting and informative exhibits.
Note: it’s quite a small museum.
However, entering this museum is very hectic and isn’t a pleasant experience..! You have to hand your ID, get searched with metal detectors as if you are entering an airport.. then a huge, black steel door is opened.. to be honest, that was a little creepy..! But once you get through this unpleasant journey, you can find a lot of interesting and informative exhibits.
Note: it’s quite a small museum.
Established with the support of Orhan Kemal Culture and Arts Center, the museum is situated in a five-story building in Cihangir neighborhood of Beyoglu. On display are photographs about his private life taken by Ara Güler, family photographs, original first edition of his books, his private letters, critics, articles and dissertations about his works. His study room contains his typewriter and many other personal belongings.His death mask is also exhibited in the museum. The building houses a bibliothek and a cafeteria for visitors.
It is accessible by walking from Taksim Square,and is open from 9:00 to 18:00 local time except Sundays. Admission is free of charge.
It is accessible by walking from Taksim Square,and is open from 9:00 to 18:00 local time except Sundays. Admission is free of charge.
This is a private museum dedicated to the writer. The furniture inside belonged to Kemal, who lived in Bakirköy. I like it very much when someone has a passion and makes it accessible to the public. Nevertheless, not much information is provided in English and it is small.
Interesting, detailed exhibits and information about Jewish people in Turkey. Also includes a visit to the beautiful, large synagogue in the building.
I visited the New Human Agenda exhibition. It was interesting but there were no information about anything anywhere. Therefore we couldn't get the idea about some pieces
Established with the support of Orhan Kemal Culture and Arts Center, the museum is situated in a five-story building in Cihangir neighborhood of Beyoglu. On display are photographs about his private life taken by Ara Güler, family photographs, original first edition of his books, his private letters, critics, articles and dissertations about his works. His study room contains his typewriter and many other personal belongings. His death mask is also exhibited in the museum. The building houses a bibliothek and a cafeteria for visitors.
Great cultural center
Two floors.. there were many interesting art pieces. And short movies.
The last short movie I saw was so interesting to watch. Made me think, if we will be like him, only wearing a head set owning nothing.. just watching and imagining everything.. ( by Hasan Mert Oz)
The last short movie I saw was so interesting to watch. Made me think, if we will be like him, only wearing a head set owning nothing.. just watching and imagining everything.. ( by Hasan Mert Oz)
I like it very much because it has very different artistic and cultural activities that is open for public and the prices are very reasonable!
Valuable belongings of the author as well as several photographs taken by Ara Güler, which are quite special!
You can have the feelings of the poet's last days there. In this little house, where you can find at the suburbs of the Beyoglu. You will be surprised by the environment of the house. Moreover you may struggle to find it :). Anyway, when you find it you may have to ring the bell. Someone will come and open the door if its closed. You can go there 9am to 4.5pm except mondays. The guy did not know enough information about the poet, so you should know why you did come here. :)) You will first see his monument and then the rest of the rooms. You may find it not enough
what you will see there but its better than nothing.
PS: You can wrap the poem in the last room ;)
what you will see there but its better than nothing.
PS: You can wrap the poem in the last room ;)
Orhan Kemal museum is about all his life like photos & letters...
Amazing place. I have been here for lecture series and before attending to the lecture I always stay in the library. It is quite small but very relaxing to think and read or write. There is also a cafe just outside the library and that cafe serves a delicious carrot cake. It is also small and good to read. You can hear art talks in the opposite tables.