Istanbul, with its historical fabric, cultural heritage, and strategic location, ranks among the world’s most significant cities. Those eager to explore the city and embark on a historical journey often find themselves in museums. Here, we’ve compiled a list of 6 museums in Istanbul that you can visit for free.
Sakıp Sabancı Museum
Located in Emirgan, the Sakıp Sabancı Museum offers one of the most beautiful views in Istanbul. It can be visited for free only on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. On other days, the museum is open for a fee from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Sakıp Sabancı Museum also hosts various exhibitions, workshops, and artistic activities from time to time.
Türkiye İş Bankası Museum
As one of the oldest institutions in the Republic of Turkey, İş Bankası has been welcoming visitors in Istanbul since it established its museum in 2007. The Türkiye İş Bankası Museum features a wealth of information and artifacts related to the bank’s history. You can visit the museum from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on January 1, the first day of holidays, and Mondays.
Galatasaray Museum
Originally established in 1911 in Kalamış, Galatasaray Museum was relocated to Galatasaray High School in the early 2000s. The museum houses over two thousand trophies, allowing visitors to examine each one individually. Closed on Mondays, it is open on other days from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Pera Museum
Located in Beyoğlu, Pera Museum has gained international recognition through its collection exhibitions. The museum is closed only on New Year’s Day and the first days of religious holidays. Additionally, every Friday from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM is designated as “Long Friday,” allowing free entry during this time.
Sirkeci Station Museum
Opened in 2005 and commonly known as the Istanbul Railway Museum, Sirkeci Station Museum exhibits artifacts and various photographs used by TCDD since its establishment. The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays but is free to enter from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on other days.
Mehmet Arsay Automobile Museum
Located in Halkalı, the Mehmet Arsay Automobile Museum showcases a collection of 50 cars produced between 1920 and 1970. The museum is open free of charge only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
