Top 20 best museums in Istanbul

The Galata Tower, also known as the Galata Tower Museum, is a historical Genoese tower located in the Galata neighborhood of the Beyoğlu district in Istanbul, Turkey. This tower is a significant symbol of the city and offers a glimpse into its rich history.

The Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmet Mosque, is a significant historical site located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul. The mosque was completed in 1616 and is a testament to the architectural prowess of the time. It was designed by architect Sedefhar Mehmet Ağa for Sultan Ahmed I.

Dolmabahçe Palace stands out as the first European-style neobaroque palace in Istanbul. It was constructed during the reign of Sultan Abd-ul-Mejid I between 1842 and 1853. The palace's construction cost was five million Ottoman gold pounds, equivalent to thirty-five tons of gold, with fourteen tons used solely to decorate the interior ceiling. This grandeur and opulence are evident in the palace's architecture and interior design, making it a fascinating site for visitors.

The Basilica Cistern, also known as Yerebatan Sarnıcı, is a historical site in Istanbul that was constructed during the reign of Emperor Justinian between 526 and 527. This underground water storage was built to meet the city's water needs. It is located southwest of Hagia Sophia, on Soğukçeşme Street.

Hagia Sophia, also known as Agia Sophia, is a significant historical monument located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is the largest Byzantine monument in the former capital of the Byzantine Empire, Constantinople. The current building was constructed between 532 and 537, following a fire that destroyed the previous structure. The architects Anthemios of Tralles and Isidor of Milet designed the building, which is renowned for its nearly floating central dome.

Topkapı Palace, also known as the "Cannon Gate Palace", was the residence of the Ottoman sultan in Istanbul for a long time. It is the most famous example of a serail, which is an Eastern palace. This historical site offers a glimpse into the life of the Ottoman sultans and their court.

The Panorama 1453 Historical Museum, located in Istanbul, is a significant historical site that opened its doors to the public on 31 January 2009. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the conquest of the city of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire, by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror on 29 May 1453.

The Istanbul Aquarium is situated in the European side of Istanbul, specifically in the Bakirkoy district within the Florya neighborhood. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the aquatic life in a city that straddles two continents.

The Kariye Mosque, also known as the Chora Church, is a significant historical site in Istanbul. This medieval Byzantine church was constructed around 550 and has undergone several transformations over the centuries. In the 16th century, it was converted into a mosque, and then it served as a museum from 1945 to 2020. Since 2020, it has returned to its function as a mosque.

Madame Tussauds Istanbul is situated in the heart of the city, on the bustling Istiklal Street. It is housed within the Grand Pera shopping center, making it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city. This location also provides a variety of other entertainment and shopping options for visitors.

The Philoxenos Cistern, also known as the Binbirdirek Cistern, is a significant historical site in Istanbul. It dates back to the time of Byzantine Constantinople and is the second largest covered cistern in the city. This makes it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.

The İstanbul Sea Life Akvaryum, situated in the Forum Istanbul shopping center in Bayrampaşa, holds the distinction of being the largest aquarium in both Istanbul and Turkey. This impressive facility offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a vast array of marine life in a spacious and well-maintained environment.

The Chora Church, also known as Kariye Camii in Turkish, is a significant historical site in Istanbul. This medieval Byzantine church was originally built around 550 AD. It underwent several transformations over the centuries, becoming a mosque in the 16th century. From 1945 to 2020, it served as a museum, showcasing its rich history and stunning Byzantine mosaics. However, since 2020, it has been reconverted into a mosque.

Hagia Irene, also known as Saint Irene, is a historical museum situated in the first courtyard of the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. It is located near the Hagia Sophia and is contemporary with it. This makes it a significant site for those interested in the history and architecture of the Byzantine era.

The Great Palace Mosaic Museum, also known as Büyük Saray Mozaikleri Müzesi, is situated in the vibrant city of Istanbul. It is conveniently located near the Blue Mosque, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. This proximity allows visitors to easily incorporate a visit to the museum into their sightseeing itinerary.

The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, situated in the Sultanahmet Square in the Fatih district of Istanbul, is a historical landmark in itself. The building, which was constructed in 1524, served as the palace of Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha, who was the second grand vizier to Suleiman the Magnificent. This historical significance adds to the rich cultural experience that the museum offers.