Which museums are open in Istanbul during Eid al-Adha?

During the Eid al-Adha holiday (June 15-19), several of Istanbul’s historical and modern museums will open their doors to both local and international visitors.

These include prominent sites such as Topkapi Palace Museum, Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul Archaeology Museums and the Basilica Cistern.

Topkapi Palace Museum visiting hours

Topkapi Palace Museum, which served as the administrative, educational, and artistic center of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years, will welcome visitors on the second and fourth days of the holiday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It features a vast collection of artifacts, including European and Asian porcelain, imperial clothing, and sacred relics. However, it will remain closed on the first and third days of Eid.

“Topkapi Palace, one of the most visited historical sites in Istanbul, will not be open on the first day of Eid but will open its gates on the second and fourth days for history enthusiasts,” as noted in the announcements.

Dolmabahce Palace visiting hours

Dolmabahce Palace, along with other notable palaces such as Beylerbeyi Palace and Yildiz Palace, will welcome visitors on the third and fourth days of the holiday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Dolmabahce Palace is known for its grandeur, comprising 285 rooms, 44 halls, and several baths and toilets.

The announcement emphasizes that “these palaces are some of the most frequented sites in Istanbul and offer a rich glimpse into the Ottoman era.”

Istanbul Archaeology Museums visiting hours

The Istanbul Archaeology Museums will remain open throughout the Eid holiday. This museum complex houses a significant collection of artifacts, including the Alexander Sarcophagus and the Treaty of Kadesh.

The museums, founded by Osman Hamdi Bey, include the Archaeology Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient and the Tiled Kiosk Museum.

The museums highlight significant historical artifacts such as the Alexander Sarcophagus, the Treaty of Kadesh, and more. “The Istanbul Archaeology Museums are a treasure trove for history buffs,” according to the management.

Basilica Cistern visiting hours

The Basilica Cistern, built in 542 by Emperor Justinian, will open from 12:00 p.m. to 11:50 p.m. on the first day of Eid and from 9:00 a.m. to 11:50 p.m. on the remaining days.

Known for its impressive marble columns rising from the water, it is also referred to as the “Sunken Palace.” The Serefiye Cistern, another ancient water structure, will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on the second, third and fourth days of Eid.

“The Basilica Cistern, with its majestic columns, is a must-see during the holiday,” a local guide noted.

Modern, contemporary Art Museum visiting hours

Istanbul Modern, Türkiye’s first modern and contemporary art museum, will be open from the second day of Eid. Visitors can explore exhibitions like Olafur Eliasson’s “Your Unexpected Encounter” and other notable collections focusing on Turkish photography and digital culture.

“We are excited to welcome visitors to our new exhibits, which include Olafur Eliasson’s interactive installations,” the museum staff announced.

Miniaturk, Panorama 1453 History Museum

Miniaturk, a park featuring miniature models of significant historical structures, will open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on the second, third and fourth days of Eid. The Panorama 1453 History Museum, depicting the conquest of Istanbul, will open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on these days as well.

“These sites provide an educational yet entertaining experience, perfect for families and history enthusiasts,” according to the museum’s management.

These cultural sites provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history and vibrant contemporary art scene of Istanbul. Whether you’re a history buff or an art enthusiast, Istanbul’s palaces and museums offer a memorable experience during the Eid al-Adha holiday.