istanbul museums – Istanbul Insider TV

3 Days in Istanbul: The Perfect Itinerary for 2025

11/06/202511/06/2025Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged 3-day Istanbul guide, europe, hagia sophia, istanbul, istanbul blog, Istanbul in 3 days, istanbul insider, Istanbul itinerary, istanbul museums, türkiye, things to do in Istanbul 2025, travel, turkey

If you only have three days to explore Istanbul, don’t worry — this city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, food, and stunning views that you can enjoy even on a short trip. Here’s a carefully crafted 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this magnificent city.

Day 1: The Historic Heart of Istanbul

Hagia Sophia: Marvel at centuries of history inside this iconic former cathedral and mosque.
Blue Mosque: Admire the impressive blue-tiled interior of one of Istanbul’s most famous mosques.
Topkapi Palace: Explore the opulent palace of Ottoman sultans with beautiful courtyards and views.
Basilica Cistern: Descend into an atmospheric underground world supported by ancient columns.

Evening Tip: Dine with a view of the old city skyline or enjoy a stroll through Sultanahmet Square.

Day 2: Bosphorus and Modern Istanbul

Bosphorus Cruise: Sail between two continents and enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul from the water.
Ortaköy: Wander through this lively waterfront neighborhood known for its food and charm.
Dolmabahçe Palace: See the grandeur of Ottoman architecture with European-style influences.
Galata Tower: Climb to the top for panoramic views over the city and the Bosphorus.

Evening Tip: Walk along Istiklal Street or watch the sunset from a rooftop café in Beyoğlu.

Day 3: Local Life and Hidden Gems

Balat & Fener: Discover colorful streets, historic churches, and a more authentic side of the city.
Chora Mosque: Admire stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes in a peaceful setting.
Kadıköy & Moda: Cross the Bosphorus by ferry to explore lively markets, trendy cafés, and seaside parks.

Evening Tip: Relax by the waterfront in Moda or enjoy street food in Kadıköy before heading back.

Quick Tips for Your Trip

Use a transportation card for easy access to ferries, trams, and metros.
Stay in central areas like Sultanahmet, Karaköy, or Beyazıt for easy access.
Bring comfortable walking shoes — Istanbul has many hills and cobblestone streets.
Plan for both modern and traditional experiences to get the full Istanbul vibe.

Sailing Through Time: Istanbul’s Sunset on the Bosphorus

15/12/202415/12/2024Posted in PlacesTagged blog, bosphorus, bosphorus tour, europe, full bosphorus tour, hagia sophia, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul bosphorus, istanbul insider, istanbul museums, sunset cruise, türkiye, travel, travel blog, turkey

Istanbul, a city that bridges Europe and Asia, is steeped in history and stunning views. Among its many experiences, a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus stands out. Here’s why it’s an unforgettable journey.

The Bosphorus: A Historic Waterway

The Bosphorus Strait, a lifeline for Istanbul since antiquity, has seen empires rise and fall. Its shores boast landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace (1856), the Rumeli Fortress (1452), and the Maiden’s Tower, with origins dating back to 1110. A cruise reveals this blend of history and modernity.

Why Choose a Sunset Cruise?

As the sun sets, Istanbul transforms. The Hagia Sophia (built in 537) and the Blue Mosque gleam in twilight, while the Bosphorus Bridge lights up, connecting two continents. The vibrant hues of the sunset make this experience magical and memorable.

What to Expect

A typical 2-3 hour cruise includes:

Landmark Views: Marvel at historic sites like Ortaköy Mosque and the 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace.
Relaxation: Enjoy Turkish tea or refreshments as the city glides by.
Photo Moments: Capture the golden-hour glow over Istanbul’s skyline.

Tips for Your Cruise

Book Early: Cruises fill up quickly, especially in summer.
Dress Warmly: Bring a light jacket for breezy evenings.
Choose Wisely: Options range from budget-friendly ferries to private yachts. Pick what suits your style.

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan)

08/06/202308/06/2023Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged basilica cistern, blog, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul insider, istanbul museums, istanbul museums visiting days, museum, sultanahmet, türkiye, tourism, travel, travel blog, turkey, yerebatan

The Basilica Cistern is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It is a large underground cistern that was built in the 6th century by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I. The cistern is located near the Hagia Sophia and the Sultanahmet Mosque, and it is open to the public for tours. The Basilica Cistern is a vast underground chamber that is supported by 336 marble columns.

The columns are arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns, and they are each about 9 meters high. The cistern is filled with water, and it is said to be able to hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water.

The Basilica Cistern is a popular tourist destination because of its unique architecture and its historical significance. It is a great place to learn about the Byzantine Empire and to see one of the most impressive engineering feats of the Middle Ages.

The Basilica Cistern is a great place to visit if you are interested in Byzantine history, architecture, or simply want to see a unique and interesting place in Istanbul.

Basilica Cistern Location:

Dolmabahçe Palace

06/03/202306/03/2023Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged besiktas, blog, dolmabahçe museum, dolmabahçe palace, dolmabahçe palace museum, dolmabahce, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul insider, istanbul museums, museum, palace, türkiye, turkey

Dolmabahçe Palace is a historical palace located in the Besiktas district of Istanbul. It was built between 1843 and 1856 as a residence for the Ottoman sultans and served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire.

The palace is home to several important landmarks, including the Harem, a secluded section of the palace that was reserved for the sultan’s family and concubines. The palace also features a collection of European and Ottoman artwork and furniture, as well as a large collection of crystal chandeliers and clocks.

The palace was designed by the Ottoman architect Garabet Balyan and his sons. It has a total of 285 rooms, 43 halls, 6 baths and 68 toilets. The palace was also home to several famous Ottoman sultans, including Abdülmecid I and Mehmed V.

Today, the palace is a popular tourist destination, attracting an estimated 3 million visitors annually. It is also a popular spot for locals, with many shops, restaurants, and cafes located nearby.

Galata Tower

02/02/202302/02/2023Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged beyoglu, beyoglu museums, blog, Constantinople, galata, galata tower, galata tower istanbul, Genoese, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul insider, istanbul museums, museum, taksim, turkey

The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower located in the Galata district of Istanbul. It was built in 1348 as part of the fortifications of the Genoese colony in Constantinople. The tower stands at a height of 63 meters and offers stunning views of the city.

The tower has been used for various purposes throughout history, including as a watchtower, a prison, and a fire lookout. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and features a restaurant and observation deck on its top floor.

Galata Tower has been a major tourist attraction in Istanbul and in recent years, the tower has undergone renovations and restoration work. In 2020, the tower was closed for restoration work and reopened in October 2020.It is an important cultural and historical landmark in Istanbul and is widely recognized as a symbol of the city. It is visited by millions of tourists every year.

Galata Tower Location

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

26/08/202226/08/2022Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged eyup sultan, eyup sultan mosque, eyup sultan transportation, eyupsultan mosque, golden horn museums, haliç, islam, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul golden horn museums, istanbul insider, istanbul museums, istanbul museums location, istanbul museums visiting days, istanbul museums visiting hours, istanbul transportation, mosque, pierre loti, pierre loti hill, turkey, turkiye

After Mecca and Medina, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque in Turkey is one of the most revered places among Muslims.

The mosque is titled after Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari, whose tomb is located in the same place. He was one of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Companions. The Place of the Grave was determined by Akşemsettin, the master and mentor of Mehmed the Conqueror, in 1453, right after the conquest of Istanbul and five years later, the mosque was built there.

Since its build, the mosque has maintained its significance. In the Ottoman era, the coronation ceremony took place here, and most sultans visited the Eyüp Sultan tomb as their final stop before engaging in combat. Today, both locals and tourists frequently visit the mosque.

Eyüp Sultan Tomb Visiting Hours and Days: The tomb is open to visitors between 09:30 and 16:00 every day.

Pierre Loti Hill:
During your visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, there is a cable car and stairs that run from the Golden Horn’s shore to the top of the Pierre Loti Hill, and also by drinking a Turkish coffee and Golden Horn view you can get rid of your tiredness.

How to get to Eyüp Sultan Mosque using public transportation:

You can use 99A and 33ES bus lines (Eyüpsultan Stop) or T5 tram line from Eminönü.
You can take 55T bus line (Eyüpsultan Stop) from Taksim or 55 (Eyüpsultan Stop) bus line from Şişli.

Eyup Sultan Mosque Location:

Pierre Loti Cable Car Location:

Istanbul Museums – Entry Fees & Visiting Hours & Location Information – Asian Side Museums (UPDATED: June 2025)

05/08/202111/06/2025Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged anatolian side, asian side, beykoz, beykoz museums, beylerbeyi, beylerbeyi palace, blog, camlica tower, istanbul, istanbul asian side museums, istanbul blog, istanbul insider, istanbul museum fees, istanbul museums, istanbul museums entrance fees, istanbul museums information, istanbul museums location, istanbul museums maps, istanbul museums visiting days, istanbul museums visiting hours, kucuksı palace, kucuksı pavilion, kızkulesi, maidens tower, mecidiye palace, mecidiye pavilion, museum, museum pass card, turkey, uskudar, uskudar museums

1- Beylerbeyi Palace
Location:	Beylerbeyi, Üsküdar
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	700 TL

2- Küçüksu Pavilion
Location:	Göksu, Beykoz
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	250 TL

3- Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion
Location:	Beykoz
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	250 TL

4- Maiden’s Tower
Location:	Salacak, Üsküdar
Closed Days:	Open everyday
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 21:00
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	32 Euro

5- Çamlıca Tower
Location:	Çamlıca
Closed Days:	Open everyday
Visiting Hours:	10:00 – 22:00 (10:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	900 TL

Istanbul Museums – Entry Fees & Visiting Hours & Location Information – Beyoglu, Taksim Museums (UPDATED: June 2025)

05/08/202111/06/2025Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged beyoglu, beyoglu museums, blog, galata, galata mevlevi house, galata museums, galata tower, galata tower istanbul, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul insider, istanbul museum fees, istanbul museums, istanbul museums entrance fees, istanbul museums information, istanbul museums location, istanbul museums maps, istanbul museums visiting days, istanbul museums visiting hours, istiklal avenue, istiklal street, madame tussauds, madame tussauds istanbul, museum, museum of illusions, museum of illusions istanbul, museum pass card, taksim, taksim museums, turkey1 Comment

1- Galata Mevlevi House Museum
Location:	Şişhane
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	7 Euro

2- Museum of Illusions
Location:	Istiklal Avenue
Closed Days:	Open everyday
Visiting Hours:	11:00 – 20:00 (11:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	690 TL

3- Madame Tussauds
Location:	Istiklal Avenue
Closed Days:	CLOSED
Visiting Hours:	*
Museum Pass Card:	*
Entrance Fee:	*

4- Galata Tower
Location:	Galata, Beyoğlu
Closed Days:	Open everyday
Visiting Hours:	08:00 – 23:00 (8:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	30 Euro

Istanbul Museums – Entry Fees & Visiting Hours & Location Information – Golden Horn Museums (UPDATED: June 2025)

01/08/202111/06/2025Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged aynalikavak palace, blog, chora church, fethiye mosque, golden horn museums, halic, halic museums, haskoy, haskoy museum, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul fatih museums, istanbul golden horn museums, istanbul insider, istanbul museum fees, istanbul museums, istanbul museums entrance fees, istanbul museums information, istanbul museums location, istanbul museums maps, istanbul museums visiting days, istanbul museums visiting hours, kariye mosque, maslak pavilions, miniaturk, miniaturk museum, museum, museum pass card, pammakaristos church, panorama 1453, panorama 1453 museum, rahmi koç museum, sutluce, sutluce museums, tekfur palace, topkapı, turkeyLeave a comment

1- Rahmi Koç Museum
Location:	Hasköy, Golden Horn
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:30 – 17:00 (09:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	700 TL

2- Aynalıkavak Pavilion
Location:	Hasköy, Golden Horn
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	250 TL

3- Miniatürk (Miniature Turkey Museum)
Location:	Sütlüce, Golden Horn
Closed Days:	Open everyday
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 19:00 (9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	750 TL

4- Panorama 1453 History Museum
Location:	Topkapı
Closed Days:	Open everyday
Visiting Hours:	08:00 – 18:30 (08:00 A.M. – 6:30 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	700 TL

5- Pammakaristos Church / Fethiye Mosque
Location:	Fatih, Çarşamba
Closed Days:	Museum is closed for renovation
Visiting Hours:	*
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	*

7- Kariye Mosque / Chora Church
Location:	Edirnekapı, Fatih
Closed Days:	Friday
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 18:00 (09:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not valid
Entrance Fee:	20 Euro

8- Tekfur Palace
Location:	Ayvansaray
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours (Winter):	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	300 TL

Istanbul Museums – Entry Fees & Visiting Hours & Location Information – Bosphorus Museums (UPDATED: June 2025)

22/07/202111/06/2025Posted in Museums, PlacesTagged blog, dolmabahçe museum, dolmabahçe palace museum, istanbul, istanbul blog, istanbul insider, istanbul maritime museum, istanbul military museum, istanbul museum fees, istanbul museums, istanbul museums beşiktaş, istanbul museums bosphorus, istanbul museums entrance fees, istanbul museums information, istanbul museums location, istanbul museums maps, istanbul museums visiting days, istanbul museums visiting hours, istanbul museums şişli, istanbul naval museum, maritime museum, maslak pavilions, museum, museum pass card, museum pass card istanbul, national palaces painting museum, naval museum, painting museum, palace collection museum, rumeli fortress, rumelian castle, turkey, yıldız museum, yıldız palace, yıldız parkLeave a comment

1- Dolmabahçe Palace Museum
Location:	Dolmabahçe
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:
Dolmabahçe Palace Selamlık + Harem + Painting Museum (Combined Ticket)	1800 TL

2- National Palaces Painting Museum
Location:	Beşiktaş
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	540 TL

3- Palace Collections Museum
Location:	Beşiktaş
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	250 TL

4- Naval Museum
Location:	Beşiktaş
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	*

5- Yıldız Palace
Location:	Beşiktaş, Yıldız Park
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Museum card partially valid
Entrance Fee:	850 TL

6- Ihlamur Pavilions
Location:	Teşvikiye, Şişli
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	250 TL

7- Military Museum
Location:	Harbiye, Şişli
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 16:00 (9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Not Valid
Entrance Fee:	*

8- Rumeli Fortress Museum
Location:	Rumelihisarı, Bosphorus
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 19:00 (9:00 A.M. – 7:00P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	6 Euro

9- Maslak Pavilions
Location:	Maslak
Closed Days:	Mondays
Visiting Hours:	09:00 – 17:00 (9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.)
Museum Pass Card:	Valid
Entrance Fee:	250 TL