Turkiye is known for its rich history and culture. It’s the land where sultans, emperors, and ancient civilisations ruled, so you’re never far from an ancient site worth exploring during your travels. The best museums in Turkiye offer an exciting glimpse into times gone by – to centuries of art, archaeology, and history. From touring grand palaces to viewing ancient maritime marvels, the 360 Yachting team can arrange expertly curated tours for superyacht guests to all the main historical attractions. Here’s a rundown of just a few of Turkiye’s best museums.

Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, Bodrum

Nearest Marina: Bodrum Milta Marina

Located in Bodrum Castle, within easy reach of the 360 Yachting Bodrum office at Milta Marina, is the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. We have mentioned this extraordinary museum several times in our blog, as it is one of the most notable museums of its kind in the world. Here, you can tour 14 exhibition halls, view shipwrecks dating back thousands of years, and gain a real insight into naval warfare and maritime trade. Key highlights at the site include:

• The Uluburun Shipwreck: A 14^th-century BCE Bronze Age ship filled with ivory, gold, and Mycenean treasures.
• The Glass Wreck Hall: One of the largest collections of ancient glass artefacts ever recovered from the sea.
• Ancient Jewellery and Coin Collection: An exhibit where you can view stunning pieces from the Roman, Byzantine, and Hellenistic periods.
• The Carian Princess Tomb is a fascinating burial chamber that contains a gold tiara and the personal belongings of a 4th-century BCE aristocratic woman.

Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul

Nearest Marina: Ataköy or Istanbul Marinas

Overlooking the Bosphorus, the architectural marvel that is Topkapi Palace is a must-see when visiting Istanbul, as it brims with imperial treasures and sacred relics. The palace was the heart of the Ottoman Empire for more than 400 years, so when touring the site, you get a real insight into the opulent lives of the sultans, courtiers, and concubines. Highlights of Topkapi Palace include:

• The Harem: The elaborately decorated wing of the palace where the sultan’s family and concubines once lived.
• The Imperial Treasury: Packed full of jewels, you can view pieces like the emerald-encrusted Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmakers Diamond, one of the largest diamonds in existence.
• Chamber of the Holy Relics: Showcasing stunning Islamic artefacts like the Prophet Muhammad’s sword and cloak.
• The Palace Kitchens: View the silverware, Ottoman porcelain, and kitchen utensils used to prep the magnificent feasts served at the royal court.
• The Audience Hall: The palace’s grand reception hall and the room sultans greeted visiting dignitaries and ambassadors.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Nearest Marina: Ataköy and Istanbul Marina

Famed for its dome and intricate mosaics, another must-see in Istanbul is undoubtedly Hagia Sophia. This true masterpiece of Byzantine and Ottoman history is toured by millions each year and today serves as both a museum and a place of worship. The site was initially built as a cathedral in 537 AD and later became an imperial mosque. The building boasts many highlights, including:

• The Great Dome: The awe-inspiring dome of Hagia Sophia stands 55m high and is a real engineering masterpiece.
• Byzantine Mosaics: You can view many stunning mosaics in Hagia Sophia, including the famous Deësis mosaic that depicts Christ, the Virgin Mary, and John the Baptist.
• The Weeping Column: A pillar believed to have healing properties, visitors touch this famous column and make a wish to cure their illnesses and ailments.
• Ottoman Calligraphy: View the huge medallions beautifully inscribed with the names of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, and the first caliphs.
• Sultan’s Lodge: Tour the private area sultans used for worship.

Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Selcuk

Nearest Marina: Setur Kusadasi Marina

Why not combine a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus with a tour of the Ephesus Archaeological Museum? This impressive museum is open daily and home to a fascinating collection of artefacts, statues, and items from the site of Ephesus, one of the world’s most well-preserved ancient cities. Highlights at the museum include:

• The Gladiator Room: View armour and weapons once used by the gladiators who fought at Ephesus Grand Theatre.
• The Artemis of Ephesus Statues: Marvel at the statues representing the goddess Artemis, worshipped at the grand Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• The Terrace House Finds: See facinating frescoes, mosaics, and everyday items from the past at the Ephesus Terrace Houses site.

Troy Museum, Çanakkale

Nearest Marina: Canakkale Marina

Troy Museum brings the legendary city of Troy to life! This popular archaeological museum is dedicated to the ancient city and is located not far from the ruins. Here, you can view an extensive collection of artefacts that tell the fascinating history of Troy, the famous city that inspired Homer’s Iliad. Highlights include:

• The Interactive Troy Timeline: This modern feature illustrates the rise and fall of Troy throughout history.
• Priam’s Treasure Exhibition: View precious artefacts and gold jewellery believed to be associated with King Priam.
• Ancient Weapons, Tools, and Pottery: Marvel at the impressive showcase of daily items found at the site dating back over 4000 years.
• The Mythology Section: Learn more about the Trojan War, Hector, Achilles, and the iconic Wooden Horse.

Antalya Museum, Antalya

Nearest Marina: Setur Antalya Marina

If you are visiting Antalya and fancy immersing yourself in history for an hour or so, let us organise a guided tour of the Antalya Museum. This museum is one of Turkiye’s finest, featuring 13 exhibition halls that showcase a phenomenal collection of relics and sculptures from the Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine times. Key highlights of Antalya Museum include:

• Hall of Emporors: This grand hall displays life-sized Roman statues depicting Roman Emporors.
• Hall of the Gods: View stunning marble statues of Zeus, Athena, and other deities from the ruins of Perge.
• The Sarcophagus Collection: Tour the intricate carvings depicting mythical scenes on the famous Heracles Sarcophagus.
• The Mosaic Hall: Tour the Mosaic Hall to view intricate floor mosaics depicting stories and tales from the Roman era.

Visit the Best Museums in Turkiye

360 Yachting specialises in organising unforgettable bespoke experiences for guests. From touring the best museums in Turkiye to VIP access to breathtaking historic cities and cultural sites, we can craft fantastic luxury excursions tailored to your guest’s needs and interests. CONTACT US today to add a bespoke superyacht tour to your itinerary.