All historic houses to visit in Istanbul

Step into the past at 15 historic houses in Istanbul. These preserved homes offer a glimpse into the lives of notable figures and everyday people from different eras.

Are you interested in exploring historic homes? Here are the must-see historic houses in Istanbul:

  1. Galata Tower1

    Galata Tower

     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.
  2. Dolmabahce Palace2

    Dolmabahce Palace

     Istanbul
    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.
  3. Basilica Cistern3

    Basilica Cistern

     Istanbul
    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.
  4. Topkapı Palace4

    Topkapı Palace

     Istanbul
    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.
  5. Cistern of Philoxenos5

    Cistern of Philoxenos

     Istanbul
    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.
  6. Hagia Irene6

    Hagia Irene

     Istanbul
    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.
  7. Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum7

    Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

     Istanbul
    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.
  8. Tiled Kiosk8

    Tiled Kiosk

     Istanbul
    The Tiled Kiosk, known in Turkish as Çinili Köşk, is a historical pavilion that is part of the Topkapı Palace complex. Dating back to 1472, as indicated by the tile inscription above the main entrance, it was constructed by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed II. The pavilion is located in the outermost parts of the palace, adjacent to Gülhane Park.
  9. Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam9

    Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam

     Istanbul
    The Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam is situated in the former Imperial Stables Building in Gülhane Park. This location adds a historical charm to the museum, making it a unique destination for tourists interested in both history and science.
  10. İşbank Museum10

    İşbank Museum

     Istanbul
    The İşbank Museum is a unique bank museum situated in the bustling business quarter of Fatih municipality in Istanbul, Turkey. It is conveniently located about 200 metres from the scenic Haliç, also known as the Golden Horn. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city.
  11. Theodosius Cistern11

    Theodosius Cistern

     Istanbul
    The Theodosius Cistern, or Şerefiye Sarnıcı as it is known in Turkish, is a significant historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. This covered cistern is a relic from the era of Byzantine Constantinople, offering a glimpse into the city's rich past. It is located in the Binbirdirek neighborhood, within the historic district of Fatih, west of the Philoxenos Cistern, near the town hall of the former Eminönü district. The entrance to the restored building is on Piyer Loti Caddesi (Pierre Loti Street).
  12. Turkish Journalists Association Press Museum12

    Turkish Journalists Association Press Museum

     Istanbul
    The Turkish Journalists Association Press Museum is situated in a historic building in the Çemberlitaş district of Istanbul. It is affiliated with the Turkish Journalists Association, adding a layer of authenticity and credibility to its exhibits. The museum's location in a historic building adds to its charm and appeal, making it a worthwhile stop for tourists interested in journalism and history.
  13. Yedikule Fortress13

    Yedikule Fortress

     Istanbul
    For centuries, the Golden Gate served as the entrance for victorious armies. After achieving victories in Europe and the Balkans, the commanders and their armies would make their triumphant entry into the city through this gate, then known as the Porta Aurea. This historical fact adds a layer of significance to the gate, making it a symbol of victory and triumph.
  14. Rezan Has Museum14

    Rezan Has Museum

     Istanbul
    The Rezan Has Museum, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a private institution dedicated to the promotion and preservation of culture and arts. This museum offers a unique blend of historical and contemporary exhibits, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Turkey.
  15. Istanbul Railway Museum15

    Istanbul Railway Museum

     Istanbul
    The Istanbul Railway Museum is situated in the historic İstanbul Sirkeci Terminal, located in the Sirkeci neighborhood of Fatih district in Istanbul, Turkey. This location is not only significant for its historical value but also for its accessibility, making it an ideal destination for tourists interested in the history of railways in Turkey.