Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum in Istanbul

 

Istanbul isn’t best known for its museums, but Istanbul Hotel Booker really recommends a visit to this one! The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (called Türk-Islam Eserleri Müzesi in Turkish) is near the Hippodrome and Istanbul’s other most popular attractions.

 

Where to Stay

Being located on the historic Sultanahmet peninsula means there are plenty of Istanbul’s hotels situated very nearby. To be within walking distance of the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum choose a hotel in Istanbul which is by the Hippodrome or nearest to the Blue Mosque and Aya Sofya because from here all of the historic attractions are just a few minutes walk from your hotel.

There are so many hotels in Istanbul that you are sure to find one within your budget which is close to the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, here on Istanbul Hotel Booker.

 

When to Go

The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is open every day except Monday, from 9am to 5pm and there is just a minimal entrance fee.

The museum doesn’t get as busy as some of the other attractions in this area and if your Istanbul hotel is nearby you an easily pop in at any time, perhaps on the way out to somewhere else.

 

About the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

The museum is actually housed within the Palace of Ibrahim Pasha, or at least part of the palace anyway. Much of the building is no longer standing, though this particular part was rebuilt in 1843 and now holds what is generally considered to be the best exhibited collection of Islamic artefacts in the world.

The museum artefacts featured are from periods as far back at the 8th century, through to the Seljuk period (between the 11th and 13th centuries) and the Ottoman period (between the 14th and 20th centuries).

 

What to See

The exhibitions are very interesting, comprising one of world’s best collections of Turkish carpets, which includes one from the 13th century. There’s a folk art collection including a full-size nomad’s tent, as well as many beautiful pieces of porcelain, wood and glass.

Rather than go back to your Istanbul hotel for a coffee, why not enjoy one here in the peaceful courtyard café of the museum? It’s a very nice setting and the café is good value too.