İstanbul, a leading global destination offering distinctive travel experiences, is also a great city to cater for children. İstanbul’s various museums expand children’s awareness of culture, arts, technology and history while creating fun moments for the entire family. İstanbul’s museums for children are also getting prepared for April 23rd, Türkiye’s National Sovereignty and Children’s Day. The only public dedicated to children in the world, April 23rd, National Children’s Day offers an ideal occasion for kids and parents to explore these interesting İstanbul institutions.
Aeroplanes, Automobiles and More: The Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Opened in 1994, the Rahmi M. Koç Museum is among the unique museums in İstanbul. Set in Hasköy on the shores of the Golden Horn, the museum is Türkiye’s only major museum dedicated to the history of transportation, industry and communication. The Museum promises an unforgettable journey into the past with exhibits featuring classic cars, the first trams, boats, antique planes, steamboats and penny-farthings (the first types of bicycles). Visitors can also expand their horizons in sections devoted to scientific inventions and tools. The Museum’s collection also includes some of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s personal belongings. The Rahmi M. Koç Museum regularly organises various activities and workshops for children, during which their parents can enjoy the nearby seaside cafes and restaurants. (http://www.rmk-museum.org.tr/istanbul/en/home-page )
A Journey into Childhood: The Toy Museum
The İstanbul Toy Museum, set in a historical mansion in Kadıköy, the most famous district on the Anatolian side, welcomes visitors of all ages to the colourful world of toys. With a collection of toys amassed over two decades by poet/writer Sunay Akın from antique shops and auctions across more than 40 countries, the Toy Museum is an excellent place for parents and children to spend time together. The Museum’s exhibits include the most famous examples of toy history from the 1700s to the present, offering parents and kids the opportunity to learn about world history in a fun and memorable way. In addition, the İstanbul Toy Museum pioneered the establishment of a union of children’s and toy museums worldwide, giving İstanbul the title of the «capital of toy museums».
Where Time Stands Still: Miniatürk
Another museum beloved by children is Miniatürk, which brings together the architectural heritage of the civilisations that ruled Anatolia throughout history. Miniatürk opened to visitors in 2003 with the slogan of ‘A Small Model of the Big Country’, is a unique park where 1/25-scale models of the most important works of Türkiye are exhibited. Miniature models of 137 architectural works, from caravanserais to complexes, mosques, churches and synagogues, and ancient buildings to palaces, showcase the artistry and architecture of Türkiye. A visit to Miniatürk is a delightful introduction to Turkish history! (https://miniaturk.com.tr/en/ )
A World of Illusions: The Museum of Illusion
In general, children are enchanted by magic and illusion. The İstanbul Illusion Museum invites kids into the surprising and entertaining world of illusions at Narmanlı Han in Beyoğlu on the European side of İstanbul and at Emaar Square Mall on the Anatolia side. Featuring optical illusions, holograms, illusion tunnels, and cleverly designed rooms that make the visitor appear upside down, presenting intriguing experiences to visitors of all ages. While the İstanbul Museum of Illusions offers kids an interactive and fun journey, the exhibits also contribute to the development of children’s imaginations with its perception tricks. Check out the Museum’s Infinity Room, Vortex Tunnel and Upside-Down Room, have a great time with your kids and take lots of photos!