Istanbul is unforgettable and you should know how to make the most of your visit there. Levent, which is one of the main business districts and home of the tallest buildings in the city, might not be priority on your sightseeing agenda, since you are going to meet with 1000+ attendees, including leading startups, internet companies, executives, business angels and venture capitalists from Asia and Europe at Startup Istanbul 2015 event. The leading startup event of the region will be great experience by itself, but your personal wonderful memories are waiting for you in the city. Undoubtedly, Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world, because it has much to offer to its visitors.
History is lying on every corner of Istanbul, but if you like to understand better and enjoy to the fullest the colorful roots of the city, here is our list of the best museums.
Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire and home of the royal family for nearly four hundred years. The palace was built upon a 700.000 square-meters and now is hosting curious visitors from all around the world every day of the week except Tuesdays.
Pera Museum
Pera Museum was built in 1893 by architect Achille Manousos and after it’s restoration in 2005 it opened its doors as a museum once again. Mostly Anatolian weights and measurements, oriental paintings and Kutahya tiles are exhibited there. The museum’s most noted piece is Osman Hamdi’s legendary painting, the Tortoise Trainer.
Ataturk Museum
The house of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, is open to visitors. The house, where he lived and planned the War of Independence, which took place in 1918-1919, is located in Şişli. There are vast displays of photographs of Ataturk throughout his life, as well as some of his clothes, belongings and paintings.
Archaeological Museum
This wonderful complex is built by architect Vallaury and influenced by the famous painter Osman Hamdi. The Archaeological Museum is hosting about 1500 pieces and offers to its visitors fascinating collections of artifacts and art, dating back to Greek, Roman and Anatolian times such as the Sarcophagus of Alexander the Great.
Modern Arts Museum
Despite its unique historical depth, Istanbul also has high quality and quantity of modern art to offer. The first modern arts museum in the city is located at renovated old docks area in Karaköy and is hosting exhibitions, photograph galleries and a sculpture courtyard.
