Visiting the Rahmi M. Koc Museum: A Journey Through Science & Transport

Ömer Faruk Kino
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The Rahmi M. Koc Museum, one of the most unique addresses in Istanbul, combines culture, history, and technology under the same roof, promising its visitors a journey through time. Spanning various areas, from transportation history to communication, from the Industrial Revolution to scientific discoveries, this special museum offers an educational and impressive experience for both adults and children. So who is Rahmi M. Koc? What exactly is this museum about? How much is the entrance fee? Is the Museum Card valid? 

Here is everything you need to know about Rahmi M. Koc Museum 👇

Who is Rahmi Koc? Turkey's Industrial and Cultural Pioneer

Rahmi Mustafa Koc is the son of Vehbi Koc, the founder of Koc Holding, one of the largest family-owned companies in Turkey. Born in 1930 in Ankara, he attended high school at Robert College and then studied industrial management at Johns Hopkins University in the United States. After his education, he joined the Koc Group and became the chairman of the board of directors of the holding in 1984. In 2003, he handed over this position and continued to support the group with the title of Honorary Chairman.

However, Rahmi Koc's name has a very strong place not only in the industrial world, but also in the fields of culture, education and museology. Combining his passion for technology and history, he created the Rahmi M. Koc Museum, the first private museum in Turkey to document the history of industry. This museum not only presents a collection, but also creates an educational environment, bringing together the technological traces of the past with the people of today.

Source: VKV

The Rahmi M. Koc Museum's Founding Story and History

The Rahmi Koc Museum began to take shape in 1991 when the Koc Foundation purchased the historic Lengerhane building in Hasköy, Istanbul, which had been used as a shipyard during the Ottoman period. The restoration process was carried out with great care, and the museum was finally opened to visitors on 13 December 1994. Since then, the museum has welcomed thousands of local and foreign visitors every year.

The physical structure of the museum has grown over time, and in 2001, the adjacent shipyard building, which was part of the Shipyard-i Amire on the shores of the Golden Horn, was also included in the museum. These two buildings form today's large museum complex.

The architecture of the historical buildings and the preserved original fabric make the atmosphere of the museum unique. Visiting the history of industry in a place that has witnessed the history of industry distinguishes this experience from other museums.

Source: rmk.museum

What is the Rahmi M. Koc Museum About?

The basic concept of the museum is to tell the history of transport, communication, industry and engineering. However, this narrative does not consist of a dry chronology or a showcase. Each artefact tells a story; each section opens the door to the technical mind of an era.

Themes of the Museum:

  • Transport: Both original vehicles and interactive models on land, air, sea and rail transport are exhibited.

  • Industry: Steam engines, mechanical systems used in factories, engines and tools present the evolution of technology.

  • Communications: Old telephones, typewriters, telegraph machines and many other communication tools shed light on the history of technology.

  • Scientific Instruments: Objects such as physics experiment tools, measuring devices, and microscopes are very rich for science enthusiasts.

  • Children and Education Areas: There are special sections for children with interactive panels, experimental equipment and thematic workshops.

Interesting Artefacts to See in the Museum

The Rahmi M. Koc Museum is unique in Turkey in terms of its collection. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Sadun Boro's ‘Kısmet’ boat: The famous boat of the first Turkish sailor to sail around the world is on display.

  • Classic car collection from the 1920s to the 1970s

  • Istanbul's first tram wagons

  • 1940s steam train locomotives

  • Aircraft engines and original propellers from the First World War period

  • Maps, compasses and astronomical observation instruments have been used since ancient times

  • Miniature steam engines and interactive steam systems

Source: By A.Savin - Own work, FAL,

How Much is the Entrance Fee to Rahmi M. Koc Museum? Is the Museum Card Valid?

As of 2025, the entrance fees valid at the Rahmi M. Koc Museum Istanbul branch are as follows:

  • Adult: 900 TL

  • Student (with discount): 450 TL

Boat Tours

  • Adult: 150 TL

  • Student:100 TL

MuseumPass Status:

Unfortunately, the MuseumPass is not valid. The Rahmi Koc Museum is not a public museum affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, but a private foundation museum.

Parking lot

  • Paid and limited parking spaces are available for visitors.

Special Occasions

  • The museum is closed on the eve and first day of religious holidays and on December 31 and January 1 every year.

Source: Istanbul Tour Studio

How to Get to the Rahmi M. Koc Museum? Transportation Information

The Rahmi M. Koc Museum is located in the Hasköy district of the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, on the shores of the Golden Horn. It is quite easy to reach.

Transportation Alternatives:

By public transport: It can be reached by buses going to Hasköy from centres such as Taksim, Eminönü or Şişli.

By private car: Although there is a car park at the museum, it is recommended to go early, as it may be crowded on weekends.

By sea via the Golden Horn: During summer periods, boat tours passing through the Golden Horn can stop by the museum.

Click for the location

Source: rmk.museum

Where to Eat Near Rahmi M Koc Museum?

Many areas within the museum are not only historical but also social experiences.

  • Halat Restaurant: Known for its location overlooking the Golden Horn and its quality menu.

  • Café Du Levant: A nostalgic atmosphere serving French cuisine.

  • Demlik Café: It can be preferred for light snacks and drinks.

  • Museum Shop: Books, toys and themed souvenirs can be purchased.

Source: Tripadvisor

How Much Time Would It Take to See Everything?

A visitor who wants to visit the Rahmi M. Koc Museum properly should spend at least 2 to 3 hours. However, if you want to examine it in detail, take photos and spend time in the restaurants, this time can be extended to 4-5 hours.

Suggestions for a visit:

  • It is ideal to go early in the morning to avoid crowds.

  • Weekday visits are much quieter than weekends.

  • Buy your ticket online in advance; it reduces the waiting time at the gate.

  • Research educational activities for children in advance; there are often special workshop programmes on weekends.

Source: By Mr.choppers - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, 

Why Visit Rahmi M. Koc Museum?

  • One of the most thematically original museums in Istanbul

  • Rich collection satisfies industry, transport and science enthusiasts

  • Contains educational and interactive content for children

  • It offers both a cultural and social experience for those who want to spend time by the Golden Horn

  • An ideal environment for a chronological and visual understanding of Turkey's modernisation process and technological evolution

Source: By Ail Subway - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, 

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