The Princes' Islands Museum is Istanbul's first contemporary city museum, located in a former helicopter hangar on Büyükada's south coast; it presents the history of the Princes' Islands from their geological formation to the present day with thousands of Ottoman archive documents and photographs.
The Princes' Islands Museum opened its doors on September 10, 2010, with the support of the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency. Established in collaboration with the Islands Foundation and the Adalar Municipality, the museum is located in the Aya Nikola area on the southern coast of Büyükada (Prinkipo), in the island's oldest historical settlement. The main building, housing permanent exhibitions, consists of a carefully restored former helicopter hangar; this unusual choice of venue offers a unique experience in itself.
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Guide's Note
Located on Büyükada, the Princes' Islands Museum is a small-scale venue that brings together the history of the islands, their former way of life, and artifacts belonging to people connected with the region. Some visitors state that the collection is richer than their expectations; antique items, figures, and objects belonging to writers and artists who lived on the islands attract interest. The museum, consisting of two sections, particularly the part dedicated to the old orphanage on the island, arouses more curiosity among visitors. There is also a small cafe within the museum.
While some visitors report that the staff are helpful and friendly, others state that they did not receive enough information from the museum attendant. Opinions are also divided on the arrangement of the exhibition: some find the collection comprehensive, while others believe that the exhibitions should be reorganized with a more careful curatorial approach.
Before your visit, we recommend considering the following practical information:
- Museum Pass (Müzekart) is not valid; however, a separate discounted rate (100 TL instead of 160 TL) is applied to Museum Pass holders.
- The entrance fee for students and teachers is stated as 80 TL.
- Some visitors emphasize that the museum has a special status and is not affiliated with the Ministry of Culture; this can lead to confusion regarding the Museum Pass discount.
- Some visitors found a part of the exhibition not sufficiently institutional; there are opinions that the collection should be organized more systematically.
What is the Princes' Islands Museum?
The Princes' Islands Museum is a unique cultural venue holding the title of Istanbul's first contemporary city museum. Located in a restored former helicopter hangar in the Aya Nikola area on the south of Büyükada, the museum comprehensively covers a wide period from the geological formation of the Princes' Islands to the Ottoman era, the Republican years, and up 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 prepared using maps and satellite photos of the 9 Istanbul islands; this initial experience summarizes the general atmosphere of the museum.
When to Visit?
Since Büyükada becomes a favorite for those wanting to escape Istanbul in the summer, both ferries and island roads can be quite crowded in July and August. For those who want to explore the museum in a calmer environment, April–June and September–October are the most suitable periods.
On weekend afternoons, the crowds peak. If possible, come on weekday mornings; you can spend much more relaxed time both in the museum and in the surrounding historical area. As ferry services may become less frequent in winter, it is recommended to plan your trip in advance.
How to Get to Büyükada and the Museum?
The most practical way to reach Büyükada from Istanbul is by ferry. There are regular İDO and Şehir Hatları services from Kabataş, Bostancı, and Kartal piers. Travel time varies between approximately 45 minutes and 1.5 hours depending on the departure point.
After disembarking at Büyükada pier, you have several options to reach the museum: you can walk by following the pier signs, rent a phaeton, or ride a bicycle, which is widely used on the island. Since motorized vehicle traffic is prohibited on the island, transportation becomes a very enjoyable experience. The walking distance from the pier to the museum is approximately 20–25 minutes.
Photo Spots
One of the most striking photo spots of the Princes' Islands Museum is the exterior view of the restored helicopter hangar building. It is possible to capture its industrial architecture together with the surrounding natural and historical texture.
The open-air section of the museum, known as the Çınar Museum Area, also provides an ideal setting for striking shots. The coastline of the Aya Nikola region and its surrounding historical structures create a captivating atmosphere, especially in the morning light. Don't forget to ask the staff during your visit if photography is allowed in the exhibition halls inside the museum.
What to Eat Nearby?
Büyükada hosts one of Istanbul's most beloved culinary destinations. You can find fresh fish, seafood, and options from traditional Turkish cuisine in the restaurants and cafes right around the pier.
The island's famous ice cream and dessert shops are also a must-visit for visitors. After your museum visit, taking a break at the small cafes along the coast while walking back to the pier is one of the best ways to soak in the island's calm atmosphere. During busy summer periods, there might be waiting times at popular restaurants, so it's recommended to go early for lunch.
Büyükada Day Itinerary
It is possible to efficiently visit Büyükada and the Princes' Islands Museum in a single day. Depart with the first ferry in the morning to arrive on the island before noon; spend 1–2 hours at the museum to build a solid foundation on the history of the Princes' Islands.
After leaving the museum, you can explore the Aya Nikola region with a short walk, then head to the historical buildings and churches in the north of the island by bicycle or phaeton. Choose one of the restaurants around the pier for lunch. In the afternoon, you can enjoy the panoramic view from the top of the island before returning to Istanbul with the last ferry.
Things to Know Before Visiting
The museum is closed on Mondays; plan your visit accordingly. Since entrance fees and opening hours can change seasonally, it's a good habit to check the official website or social media accounts before your visit.
Since there are no motorized vehicles on the island, reaching the museum requires walking or cycling; therefore, comfortable shoes are recommended. In summer, don't forget to bring sunscreen and water. Be sure to check ferry times in advance to avoid missing the last departure; otherwise, you might get stranded on the island.
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