The Islands Museum is Istanbul's first contemporary city museum, located on the southern coast of Buyukada in a restored former helicopter hangar; it presents the history of the Prince Islands from their geological formation to the present day through thousands of Ottoman archive documents and photographs.
The Islands Museum opened its doors on September 10, 2010, with the support of the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency. Founded through a collaboration between the Islands Foundation and the Islands Municipality, the museum is located in the Aya Nikola area on the southern coast of Buyukada (Prinkipo), in the island's oldest historical settlement area. The main building housing the permanent exhibitions consists of a carefully restored former helicopter hangar; this unusual space selection alone offers a unique experience.
Guide's Note
The Islands Museum on Buyukada is a small-scale space that presents the history of the islands, former ways of life, and artifacts related to people connected to the area. Some visitors note that the collection is richer than expected; antique objects, figurines, and items belonging to writers and artists who lived on the islands attract interest. The museum consists of two sections, with the part dedicated to the island's former orphanage generating particular curiosity among visitors. There is also a small cafe inside the museum.
While some visitors mention that the staff is attentive and warm, others report that they did not receive sufficient information from museum personnel. Opinions are also divided on the arrangement of the exhibitions: some find the collection comprehensive, while others believe the displays should be reorganized with a more careful curatorial approach.
We recommend keeping the following practical information in mind before your visit:
- Museum card is not valid; however, a separate discounted rate applies to museum card holders (100 TL instead of 160 TL).
- Entrance fee for students and teachers is listed as 80 TL.
- Some visitors emphasize that the museum has special status and is not affiliated with the Ministry of Culture; this situation can cause confusion regarding museum card discounts.
- Part of the exhibition has seemed insufficiently institutional to some visitors; there are views that the collection should be organized more systematically.
What is the Islands Museum?
The Islands Museum is a unique cultural space that holds the title of Istanbul's first contemporary city museum. Located in the Aya Nikola area on the southern side of Buyukada in a restored former helicopter hangar, the museum comprehensively covers a wide time span from the geological formation of the Prince Islands through the Ottoman period, the Republican years, to the present day.
The collection includes over 20,000 documents, 10,000 photographs, hundreds of documentary films, documents compiled from public institution archives, and objects donated by islanders. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by an impressive animation created from maps of 9 Istanbul islands and space photographs; this initial experience alone summarizes the museum's overall atmosphere.
When Should You Visit?
Since Buyukada becomes a popular destination for those wanting to escape Istanbul during summer, July and August can see crowded ferries and island roads. For those who wish to tour the museum in a quieter environment, April–June and September–October are the most suitable periods.
Crowds peak on weekend afternoons. If possible, visit on weekday mornings; you can enjoy both the museum and the surrounding historical area much more comfortably. In winter months, ferry services may become less frequent, so plan your trip in advance.
How to Get to Buyukada and the Museum?
The most practical way to reach Buyukada from Istanbul is by ferry. Regular services operate from Kabatas, Bostanci, and Kartal piers via IDO and City Lines. Travel time varies between approximately 45 minutes and 1.5 hours depending on the departure point.
After docking at the Buyukada pier, you have several options to reach the museum: you can walk by following pier signs, rent a fayton (horse-drawn carriage), or ride a bicycle, which is widely used on the island. Since motorized traffic is restricted on the island, transportation becomes a delightful experience. The walking distance from the pier to the museum is approximately 20–25 minutes.
Photography Spots
One of the most striking photography points at the Islands Museum is the exterior view of the restored helicopter hangar building. It's possible to capture its industrial architecture together with the surrounding natural and historical texture.
The open-air area known as the Cinar Museum Area also provides an ideal setting for striking shots. The coastline of the Aya Nikola area and surrounding historical structures create a captivating atmosphere, especially in morning light. Remember to ask museum staff during your visit whether photography is permitted in the exhibition halls.
What to Eat in the Area?
Buyukada is home to one of Istanbul's most beloved culinary spots. In the restaurants and cafes around the pier, you can find fresh fish, seafood, and traditional Turkish cuisine options.
The island's famous ice cream and dessert shops are also visitor favorites. After touring the museum, taking a break at small cafes along the way while walking back to the pier is one of the best ways to absorb the island's calm atmosphere. During busy summer periods, popular restaurants may have waiting times, so we recommend leaving early for lunch hours.
Buyukada One-Day Route
It's possible to efficiently tour Buyukada and the Islands Museum in a single day. Take the first ferry in the morning and arrive on the island before noon; tour the museum in 1–2 hours and gain a solid foundation on the history of the Prince Islands.
After leaving the museum, you can explore the Aya Nikola area on a short walk, then by bicycle or fayton visit the historical structures and churches in the northern part of the island. Choose one of the restaurants near the pier for lunch. In the afternoon, climb to the top of the island to enjoy panoramic views, then return to Istanbul on the last ferry.
Things to Know Before Your Visit
The museum is closed on Mondays; plan accordingly. Entrance fees and operating hours may change seasonally, so it's a good habit to check the official website or social media accounts before visiting.
Since there are no motorized vehicles on the island, reaching the museum requires walking or cycling; for this reason, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. In summer, don't forget to bring sunscreen and water. Learn ferry schedules in advance to avoid missing the last departure; otherwise, you may get stranded on the island.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
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