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Istanbul Museums & exhibitions

Our most recommended Istanbul Museums & exhibitions

From Istanbul: Day Trip to Cappadocia with Flight & Lunch

1. From Istanbul: Day Trip to Cappadocia with Flight & Lunch

Explore the most important landmarks of Cappadocia along with its fascinating rock formations on a full-day guided tour from Istanbul. See the Goreme Open Air Museum, Devrent Valley, fairy chimneys from Goreme Panorama, and more with an authentic Turkish lunch at a restaurant. Get picked up from your hotel in Istanbul and arrive at the airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Kayseri. Meet your local driver and enjoy the ride to Cappadocia, where you will join other group participants and begin your tour. Explore the Goreme Open Air Museum and study the many rock-cut churches from as far back as the 10th century. Next, visit Devrent Valley, famous for its quirky animal-shaped rocks, and feel like you're in another world. Head to Pasabag, also known as Monks Valley, and see the chapel dedicated to St. Simeon along with a hermit's shelter. Admire some of the most striking fairy chimneys with a unique mushroom shapes. Stop for a typical Turkish lunch in Avanos. Then learn to make pottery with local experts. Take in the best views of the fairy chimneys from Goreme Panorama before marveling at more magnificent landscapes from Uchisar Rock Castle. Drive back to Kayseri for your return flight to Istanbul where your driver will greet you and take you back to your hotel.

Istanbul: Archaeological Museums Entry Ticket & Highlight

2. Istanbul: Archaeological Museums Entry Ticket & Highlight

Discover the three museums in the Istanbul Archeological Museums complex, learn about the museums’ incredible histories from your expert guide as you stroll around. Visit the Tiled Pavilion Museum, the oldest building in the complex dating back to 1472, built by Ottoman sultan II. Mehmed as a summer palace.See the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, Turkey’s first museum with works from the Ottoman Empire to the Turkish Republic. Gaze at the neo-classical architecture which houses more than 1 million works. Explore the Museum of the Ancient Orient, with unique collections of works belonging to the pre-Greek eras of Anatolia and Mesopotamia, the pre-Islamic eras of Egypt, and the Arabian Peninsula. Admire artifacts that were unearthed in archaeological excavations and brought to Istanbul during the Ottoman Empire.

Turkish & Islamic Art Museum: Entry Ticket & Guided Tour

3. Turkish & Islamic Art Museum: Entry Ticket & Guided Tour

Enjoy a totally unique art experience with a ticket and guided tour package of the the Ibrahim Paşa Palace. This unique building, currently housing the largest selection of Turkish and Islamic artworks is a stone structure just as beautiful as the artwork it houses. During your guided tour of the museum you will have access to the building's ceremony room and second court, where the collections are held.  Skip the line and walk straight in with your friendly and informative guide as you explore the world's biggest carpet collection, including rare carpets from the Seljuk Empire, Iranian and Caucasian regions. You can also marvel at collections of hand-written calligraphy, imperial edicts, ancient Qurans and other written works. Witness a very wide collection of articles made of wood, glass, ceramic and stone by artists from former Islamic regions, all of which are on display at the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

Istanbul: Day Trip to Edirne

4. Istanbul: Day Trip to Edirne

You will depart from your hotel in the early morning, at which point you will make your way towards Eski Camii. The structure was built of cut stone and brick between 1402-14, with fine white marble and decorative calligraphy on the interior walls and pillars. Üç Serefeli Camii, the name of the mosque, was derived from the three balconies on the southeast minaret. Each balcony is reached by a separate stairway, and the decorative tile designs on the minarets are all different. The minarets were the most important development in the structure of the mosque in the 15th century. Selimiye Mosque Edirne’s crowning glory was built for Selim II, (1566-74) by Sinan who was the architect of the Abode of Felicity for 50 years. It was the masterpiece of Sinan’s old age, and its symmetrical design was strongly emphasized by the four minarets and the soaring rise of the central dome. Semiz Ali Pasa Arasta is also the work of Sinan. Completed in 1589, it is a long tunnel-like building with shops on both sides. There you may buy one of Edirne’s specialities, soap shaped like fruit or vegetables. Meric Bridge (New Bridge) was constructed at the junction of the Meriç and Arda rivers between 1842-1847. Kule Kapisi (a 12th-century tower gate) is all that remains of the tower, which once protected the principal gate of the citadel. It was rebuilt by the Byzantine emperor John Comnenus II (1118-1143) as part of his repair of the Hadrianic defensive system. Beyazit Kulliyesi is the largest in Edirne, the complex had a mosque and a hospital which was famous for the skill of its surgeons. In the octagonal domed timarhane, the insane were treated with musical therapy. At the conclusion of your historic tour, you will be returned back to your point of origin. (Selimiye Mosque is closed to visitors until 2025 as it is under repair)

Istanbul: Museum of Illusions Ticket

5. Istanbul: Museum of Illusions Ticket

The Museum of Illusions Istanbul offers guests an interactive, immersive, and entertaining journey which includes more than 60 illusions to see and experience. It is bound to be interesting, confusing, hilarious, and all round great fun. Nothing is what is seems in this museum, which includes a visual, sensory, and educational space that will challenge your perceptions. This exhibit is bound to boggle your mind whilst being the most fun you’ve had in a long time. The museum is a place for everyone to enjoy, so bring your friends, kids, family, or just yourself and a camera with full battery. You’ll definitely want photo evidence of what you experience because, as won’t believe what you see within the museum's walls.

Istanbul: 3-Days, 2-nights in Cappadocia & Hot Air Balloon

6. Istanbul: 3-Days, 2-nights in Cappadocia & Hot Air Balloon

First day 07.00 Pick up from your hotel and transfer to Istanbul airport. 08:00 Depart from Istanbul for Kayseri 09:00 Arrive in Kayseri airport, meet in the airport. Transfer to Cappadocia. 13:00 Check in hotel 16:00 Atv tour Back to hotel Second Day 04:30-05:00 Hot Air Balloon Tour 07:00 back hotel Cappadocia Tour 09:30: Join in the first day tour of Cappadocia including Uçhisar castle viewpoint, Goreme Open Air Museum, Cavusin old village, lunch in Avonos, pottery demonstration in Avanos, Paşabağı Fairy Chimneys, Devrent Valley (magic valley), Urgup fairy chimneys, Urgup Carpet Factory. After the tour transfer to hotel and stay the night in Goreme. Overnight stay in Cappadocia (Boutiquestyle Hotel; Göreme Cave Lodgel, Alaturca House or Harman Cave Hotel *standard rooms) Third Day 09:30 You will attend the tour which begin with the Göreme Panaromic view. Here, you will be given information about the geological and historical background of the city, then you will visit Underground City which was constructed as a temporary shalter against invasions and raids. The next step will be a small hiking in the Ihlara Valley, followed by a lunch break in Belisirma village. At the Yaprakhisar Panorama, you will see Selime Monastry, which is important because you can see all the different sections of a monastry in one composition. Finally, our tour will be finished with the Pigeon valley and onyx demonstration. In day transfer to airport and fly to Istanbul Arrive Istanbul and transfer to your hotel Plase Note:If hot air balloon cancel because for weather we give you 75 euro per person Tours days can be change

From Istanbul: Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary Day Trip

7. From Istanbul: Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary Day Trip

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Turkey with this day trip to Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, and the House of the Virgin Mary. Explore these incredible sites with an experienced local guide. Benefit from round-trip flights and luxury transfers from your hotel in Istanbul. After pickup in Istanbul, travel to the airport where you’ll board a flight to Izmir. Once you’ve landed, drive to the incredible UNESCO World Heritage site of Ephesus. Wander through the ancient ruins with your guide, see the Grand Theater, and admire the stunning Library of Celsus. Continue your tour with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where the mother of Jesus was said to spend her final days. Finally, head to the sparse ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Afterwards, fly back to Istanbul and get dropped off at your hotel.

From Istanbul: 2-Day Ephesus, Pamukkale, & Hierapolis Tour

8. From Istanbul: 2-Day Ephesus, Pamukkale, & Hierapolis Tour

Discover the ancient cities of Ephesus and Hierapolis on this two-day trip from Istanbul. Explore the ancient city of Ephesus where you can see the Temple of Artemis. Experience the beauty of the natural white terraces created by mineral deposits at the hot springs in Pamukkale. Stay overnight in the town of Selcuk or Kusadasi. Treat yourself to breakfast at the hotel. Try authentic Turkish food with lunch at two local restaurants during your tours. Day 1: Be picked from your accommodation in Istanbul and relax on the drive to the airport. Enjoy a comfortable flight to the city of Izmir. Meet your guide at the airport and drive to the tour provider's office in the town of Selcuk. Take a break with lunch in a local restaurant. Continue to the archeological site at Ephesus to start your guided tour. Walk through the ancient streets and see one of the wonders of the ancient world at the Temple of Artemis. View the façade of one of the largest libraries from Roman times at the Library of Celsus. Stop at the House of the Virgin Mary where the religious figure is said to have spend her last days. See the remains of an old Roman Amphitheater. Learn about these ruins from your local guide. Drive to your hotel in Selcuk or Kusadasi where you can rest for the evening. Day 2: In the morning, be picked up by your guide from your hotel. Enjoy the scenic Turkish countryside on the drive to Pamukkale. Hear about area and culture from your guide. Have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before starting your tour of the ruins of Hierapolis. Stroll to the remains of a massive Roman amphitheater that once held an audience of 15,000. Admire the marble staircase at the Greek Temple of Apollo. Watch as your guide points out all the significant structures in the archeological site of Hierapolis. Take off your shoes and walk along the white terraces of Pamukkale. Dip your feet in the natural hot springs. Swim amid the ruins of a temple in Cleopatra's Pool. Have some free time in the afternoon to explore on your own. Take it easy on the ride back to the airport where you can catch your flight back to Istanbul. Once you arrive in Istanbul, your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your accommodation in Istanbul.

Istanbul: Madame Tussauds Entrance Ticket

9. Istanbul: Madame Tussauds Entrance Ticket

Meet world famous celebrities and cultural heroes cast in wax with an entrance ticket to Madame Tussauds in the historic city center of Istanbul. Explore the famous visitor attraction at your own pace and take memorable selfies with legendary athletes and singers.  See historical and cultural heroes from the history of Turkey, along with current celebrities from the arts, sport and politics. Stroll around the 2,000-square-meter venue set within the Grand Pera project on Istiklal Street at leisure and discover interactive environments across 6 distinct zones. Have fun spotting famous people and end with a special party finale!

Istanbul: 3.5-Hour Guided City Tour with Bosphorus Cruise

10. Istanbul: 3.5-Hour Guided City Tour with Bosphorus Cruise

Spend a day exploring the vibrant city of Istanbul and learn the stories of Istanbul's past from your expert local guide. Visit the Spice Bazaar and enjoy city views as you sail along the Bosphorus. Start your adventure with a visit to the City Walls, built by the famous Emperor Constantine. Learn how they once defended the city of Constantinople as you explore the area with your guide. Come to Golden Horn and admire the views of this incredible natural waterway and harbor. Continue to the famous Spice Bazaar. Admire the colorful displays of spices and savor the aromas of cinnamon, caraway, mint, and saffron. Next, explore the spectacular Bosphorus on a sightseeing cruise between Europe and Asia. Admire views of famous monuments such as the Ciragan Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and the Military High School. Sail past Rumeli Fortress built by Mehmet II and used to prevent the Byzantine fleet.

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What people are saying about Istanbul

I absolutely loved the tour. I am very well-travelled and always think twice about tours, but when it comes to cities and history, I believe its the best to do! I learnt so much during the walking tour, the guide was super knowledgeable, I had a very clear idea of the city and its history at the end. He took also gave me some tips on where to eat out of the beaten truck, (which I tried after and loved all of them). I could have done this walk on my own but would have not gotten even half out of it without him. I mentioned I couldnt find the Egyptian market and he added it at the end of the trip for no extra charge! Highly recommend it! ask him to take you for lunch to the fish market are and get a fish wrap! its only 50 lyra and so yummy!!!

Loved this tour. It’s a bit tiring but Cappadocia is a must in everyone’s bucket list. It’s amazing so the trip was worth it. The transfers, arrangement and guide were all superb! Big shout out to Shukria, our guide she is the Queen! Really knowledgeable and very kind mannered. Money well spent.

It was a wonderful tour. We've met the best guide ever. He was a gentle and a well informed person. Transportation was well organized and there was no stress for us. It is surely well recommended tour.

This was an excellent tour. Everything was own time and efficient. Paragliding was amazing! Josh was an excellent tour guide. Highly recommend!

Saygu was a fantastic guide. Very patient and knowledgeable.