Onedio Logo

Top Historic Places to Visit in Istanbul During Eid: Your Ultimate Guide

Ömer Faruk Kino Yazar Profil Resmi
Ömer Faruk Kino
Onedio Member
0
Kapak Görseli

If you're planning to spend the Eid holiday in Istanbul, you're in for a treat! For over 16 centuries, this vibrant city has been the heart of the powerful empires of the Romans and the Ottomans. Istanbul is brimming with historical sites that have stood the test of time, offering visitors a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels. As one of the world’s top tourist destinations, especially for history enthusiasts, Istanbul seamlessly weaves together the old and the new.

Let's guide you through the most captivating historical landmarks that will make your Eid holiday in Istanbul unforgettable👇

Topkapi Palace and Museum

Topkapi Palace and Museum Görseli

Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul's must-see attractions, especially during Eid. Once home to Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, the palace also served as a center for science and the arts. The palace covers a sprawling 700,000 square meters and houses treasures like European porcelain, Japanese ceramics, Ottoman Empire relics, and sacred safes. Topkapi is an awe-inspiring mix of grandeur and history that will leave a lasting impression.

Visiting Hours:

  • Arafat Day: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • First Day of Eid: Closed

  • Other Days: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Closed on the third day of Eid

Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace Görseli

Dolmabahçe Palace is another popular attraction during the Eid holiday. With an area of 110,000 m², this massive palace reflects the opulence of the Ottoman era. It’s part of a collection known as “National Palaces,” which also includes the Beylerbeyi, Küçüksu, and Ihlamur Palaces, among others.

Visiting Hours:

  • Arafat Day & Second and Third Days of Eid: Open

  • First Day of Eid: Closed

Hagia Sophia: The eighth wonder of the world

Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Originally a Byzantine church, it later became a mosque after Sultan Mehmet Fatih’s conquest of Istanbul. Today, it stands as a symbol of the merging of civilizations and cultures. Its mosaics and grand architecture make it a must-visit during the Eid holiday.

Visiting Hours:

  • First Day of Eid: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

  • Other Days: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Yerebatan Palace (Basilica Cistern)

Yerebatan Palace, also known as the Basilica Cistern, was built in 542 AD by Emperor Justin I to provide water to the Great Palace. Today, it’s one of Istanbul's most fascinating tourist sites, renowned for its grand, submerged columns that create an otherworldly atmosphere.

Visiting Hours:

  • First Day of Eid: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

  • Other Days: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Miniatürk

Miniatürk offers a fun and educational experience for visitors. Located in the Golden Horn area, this park features over 135 miniature models of Türkiye's historical and cultural landmarks, representing civilizations such as the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans.

Visiting Hours:

  • Arafat Day: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Eid Day: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Source: Miniaturk

Panorama 1453

Panorama 1453 is a unique museum dedicated to the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. This immersive, 360-degree experience transports you back to the fateful day of May 29, 1453, when Sultan Mehmet Fatih captured the city. It's a perfect spot for history buffs visiting Istanbul during Eid.

Visiting Hours:

  • First Day of Eid: Closed

  • Other Days: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Source: Ponoramikmüze

Tekfur Palace (Palace of the Porphyrogenitus)

Situated in the Karasu region, Tekfur Palace is one of the lesser-known gems of Istanbul. This Byzantine palace later became an important part of Ottoman history and offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.

Visiting Hours:

  • First Day of Eid: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

  • Other Days: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Rahmi Koç Museum

The Rahmi Koç Museum is a fascinating place to visit for those interested in transport and industrial history. Spanning 27,000 square meters, it features exhibits on road, rail, and air travel, as well as maritime history and vintage machinery.

Visiting Hours:

  • First and Second Days of Eid: Closed

  • Other Days: Open

Source: Müzeler.org

Toy Museum

For a whimsical Eid experience, visit Istanbul’s famous Toy Museum. Founded by Turkish writer and poet Sunay Akin, this museum houses toys from over 40 countries, collected over 20 years. The museum offers a delightful blend of fun and learning for visitors of all ages.

Visiting Hours:

  • First Day of Eid: Closed

  • Other Days: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Whether you're a history buff or a casual visitor, Istanbul offers a wide range of historical treasures to explore during the Eid holiday.

From the grandeur of Topkapi Palace to the interactive exhibits at the Toy Museum, there's something for everyone in this ancient city. Be sure to plan your itinerary around the opening hours, as some locations may have altered schedules during Eid.

So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Eid holiday in Istanbul, where every corner has a story to tell!