All ethnology museums to visit in Turkey

Explore the cultural diversity and heritage at 56 ethnology museums in Turkey. These museums offer insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of various communities.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in Turkey:

  1. Red Tower (Alanya)1

    Red Tower (Alanya)

     Alanya
    The Red Tower, or Kızıl Kule as it is known locally, is a significant symbol of the city of Alanya. It is situated in the district of Antalya, right at Alanya Port. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, and its historical significance adds to its appeal.
  2. Ephesus Archaeological Museum2

    Ephesus Archaeological Museum

     Selçuk
    The Ephesus Archaeological Museum, known as Efes Müzesi in Turkish, is situated in the town of Selçuk, which is in close proximity to Izmir, Turkey. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.
  3. Ethnography Museum of Ankara3

    Ethnography Museum of Ankara

     Altındağ
    The Ethnography Museum of Ankara, known as Ankara Etnografya Müzesi in Turkish, is a cultural institution dedicated to the exploration and preservation of the cultures of Turkic peoples. Visitors to the museum can expect to gain a deep understanding of the rich and diverse cultures that make up the Turkic world, through a variety of exhibits and displays.
  4. Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum4

    Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

     Istanbul
    The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, situated in the Sultanahmet Square in the Fatih district of Istanbul, is a historical landmark in itself. The building, which was constructed in 1524, served as the palace of Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha, who was the second grand vizier to Suleiman the Magnificent. This historical significance adds to the rich cultural experience that the museum offers.
  5. Museum of the Princes' Islands5

    Museum of the Princes' Islands

     Prince Islands
    The Museum of the Princes' Islands is situated on Büyükada, the largest island in the Princes' Islands archipelago. This location in Istanbul Province, Turkey, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the Princes' Islands while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
  6. Trabzon Museum6

    Trabzon Museum

     Ortahisar Mahallesi
    The Trabzon Museum, also known as Kostaki Mansion, is a historic house museum located in Trabzon, Turkey. It houses archeological and ethnographic exhibitions, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. The mansion was originally built in the early 1900s as a private residence and has since been transformed into a museum, making it a significant historical landmark in the city.
  7. Edirne Museum7

    Edirne Museum

     Edirne
    The Edirne Archaeology and Ethnography Museum is situated in the heart of Edirne, just 50 meters from the eastern gate of the Selimiye Mosque. It is conveniently located next to the area where Ottoman tombstones are exhibited, making it an accessible destination for tourists interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the region.
  8. Altınköy Açık Hava Müzesi8

    Altınköy Açık Hava Müzesi

     Altındağ
    Altınköy Açık Hava Müzesi, situated in the Altındağ district of Ankara, offers a unique opportunity to experience the rural life of Turkey. The museum was built by the Altındağ Municipality to highlight the importance of preserving the culture and traditions of villages that are at risk of disappearing due to rapid urbanization.
  9. Mardin Museum9

    Mardin Museum

     Mardin Province
    The Mardin Museum is an archaeological and ethnographic museum situated in the province of Mardin. It is a significant cultural institution that reflects the historical and cultural richness of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture.
  10. Çorum Archaeological Museum10

    Çorum Archaeological Museum

     Çorum
    The Çorum Museum, located in the heart of Çorum, is an archaeological and ethnographic museum. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region through its extensive collection of artifacts.
  11. Burdur Archaeological Museum11

    Burdur Archaeological Museum

     Burdur Merkez
    The Burdur Museum, situated in the heart of Burdur city, is home to an impressive collection of over 57,000 archaeological and ethnographic artifacts. This vast collection offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the region, spanning various periods and civilizations.
  12. 12

    Bozcaada Yerel Tarih Müzesi

     Bozcaada
    The Bozcaada Yerel Tarih Müzesi, located in Bozcaada, Çanakkale, was established by collector Hakan Gürüney in 2005. This museum is a testament to the rich history of the region and offers a unique insight into the local culture and traditions.
  13. Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum13

    Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum

     Çaydaçıra Mahallesi
    The Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum is located within the campus of Fırat University in Elazığ, Turkey. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, combining the academic atmosphere of the university with the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region.
  14. Şebinkarahisar Atatürk House and Museum14

    Şebinkarahisar Atatürk House and Museum

     Şebinkarahisar
    The Şebinkarahisar Atatürk House Museum is a traditional Şebinkarahisar house that holds historical significance as the place where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, stayed for a night during his visit to Şebinkarahisar on October 11, 1924. This visit is an important part of the local history, making the house a significant site for those interested in the life and times of Atatürk.
  15. Isparta Museum15

    Isparta Museum

     Isparta
    As of the end of 2008, the Isparta Museum boasts a collection of 17,976 artifacts. This includes 2,953 archaeological pieces, 2,352 ethnographic items, and 1,2671 coins. This diverse collection offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the region's rich history and culture.
  16. Kars Museum16

    Kars Museum

     Kars Merkez
    Kars Museum, located in the city of Kars, is the largest museum in the region. It was initially established in 1959 and later expanded to a larger facility in 1981. The museum houses a vast collection of archaeological, ethnographic, and stone artifacts, making it a significant institution among museums in the area.
  17. 17

    Uluumay Osmanlı Halk Kıyafetleri Ve Takılar Müzesi

     Osmangazi
    The Uluumay Ottoman Folk Costumes and Jewelry Collection is a unique compilation of 18 different collections. These collections were meticulously gathered by Esat Uluumay, a renowned collector, folklorist, and folklore researcher. This vast collection offers a deep insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Ottoman era, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture.
  18. Bolu Museum18

    Bolu Museum

     Bolu
    The Bolu Museum is located in the city of Bolu, Turkey. This city was a significant part of the Bithynia kingdom in ancient times. The museum is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
  19. Aydın Archaeological Museum19

    Aydın Archaeological Museum

     Aydin
    The Aydın Archaeological Museum is an archaeological and ethnographic museum situated in the Efeler district of Aydın province in Turkey. It houses a vast collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts from the region, providing a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of Aydın and its surroundings.
  20. Alanya Archaeological Museum20

    Alanya Archaeological Museum

     Alanya
    The Alanya Archaeological Museum, located in Alanya, Turkey, is a significant destination for those interested in archaeology and ethnography. The museum is divided into two sections, each dedicated to showcasing a variety of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts. This division allows visitors to explore and understand the rich history and culture of the region in a structured manner.
  21. Grand Bazar21

    Grand Bazar

     Istanbul
    The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, known as Kapalı çarşı in Turkish, is one of the largest and oldest markets in the world. This historic market is a significant attraction for tourists, offering a unique shopping experience in a setting that dates back centuries.
  22. Mardin Museum22

    Mardin Museum

     Midyat
    The Mardin Museum, located in Mardin, is an archaeological and ethnographic museum that reflects the historical and cultural richness of the region. It houses collections that showcase the diverse history and culture of the area, making it a significant destination for those interested in learning more about the region's past.
  23. Bursa Kent Müzesi23

    Bursa Kent Müzesi

     Osmangazi
    The Bursa City Museum has been housed in the city's old courthouse building since 2004. This historic building adds a unique charm to the museum, making it a fascinating place to visit for those interested in architecture as well as history. The museum's location in a former courthouse also provides a unique backdrop for the exhibits, adding an extra layer of historical context.
  24. Milas Museum24

    Milas Museum

     Milas
    The Milas Museum, located in the Muğla Province of Turkey, is a dedicated space for the exploration of archaeology and ethnography. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history and culture of the region, showcasing a variety of artifacts and exhibits that reflect the area's past.
  25. İzzet Koyunoğlu Şehir Müzesi25

    İzzet Koyunoğlu Şehir Müzesi

     Karatay
    The İzzet Koyunoğlu City Museum is situated in the Topraklık Mahallesi district of Konya. It was founded by A.R.İzzet Koyunoğlu, who belonged to one of the city's most established families. This museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of Konya, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's past through its extensive collection.
  26. Trabzon City Museum26

    Trabzon City Museum

     Trabzon
    The Trabzon Museum, also known as Kostaki Mansion, is a historic house museum located in Trabzon, Turkey. It houses archeological and ethnographic exhibitions, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. The museum is situated in a mansion that was built in the early 1900s and has served various purposes over the years, from a private residence to a military headquarters, before being transformed into a museum.
  27. Kırklareli Museum27

    Kırklareli Museum

     Karacaibrahim Mahallesi
    The Kırklareli Museum is a national museum located in Kırklareli, Turkey. It showcases a variety of exhibits, including natural history specimens, ethnographical items that reflect the region's cultural history, and archaeological artifacts discovered in and around the city. These diverse collections provide a comprehensive overview of the region's rich and varied history.
  28. Sivas Congress and Ethnography Museum28

    Sivas Congress and Ethnography Museum

     Sivas Belediyesi
    The Sivas Congress and Ethnography Museum is situated on İnönü Boulevard in Sivas, Turkey. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by two medieval schools, Şifahiye Medrese and Buruciye Medrese, which are to the east of the museum. The museum building itself was originally a high school, built in 1892 by Mehmet Mazlum Bey, the then governor of Sivas.
  29. Sahip Ata Museum29

    Sahip Ata Museum

     Meram
    The Sahip Ata Museum is part of a larger building complex that includes a mosque, a madrasa, a hammam, and several shops that were originally established to raise funds for the maintenance of the complex. The complex also houses the tomb of Sahip Ata. The construction of the complex began in 1258 and was completed in 1277.
  30. Konya Ethnography Museum30

    Konya Ethnography Museum

     Meram
    The Konya Ethnography Museum showcases a wide array of ethnographic artifacts, primarily from Konya and its surrounding regions. These artifacts have been acquired through various means, including purchases, gifts, and transfers from other museums. The collection provides a rich insight into the local culture and history, making it a worthwhile visit for tourists interested in understanding the region's past and its people.
  31. Yakutiye Madrasa31

    Yakutiye Madrasa

     Erzurum
    The Yakutiye Madrasa, located in Erzurum, Turkey, is a significant historical site that dates back to 1310. It was constructed under the patronage of Emir Hoca Cemalettin Yakut during the reign of the Ilkhanate ruler Olcaytu. This historical monument stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
  32. Konya Ereğli Museum32

    Konya Ereğli Museum

     Eregli
    The Konya Ereğli Museum, located in the Ereğli district of Konya Province in Turkey, is a museum dedicated to archaeology and ethnography. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region, from the Neolithic age to the Republican period of Turkey.
  33. Ünye Yaşayan Kültürel Miras Müzesi33

    Ünye Yaşayan Kültürel Miras Müzesi

     Ünye
    The Ünye Museum, also known as the Ünye Living Cultural Heritage Museum, is located in the Hamidiye neighborhood of the city of Ünye. The museum was established in 2013 by transforming the mansion of Captain Server Bey. This historical building offers a unique insight into the cultural heritage of the region.
  34. Marmaris Castle34

    Marmaris Castle

     Marmaris
    Marmaris Castle, situated in the Marmaris district of Muğla, holds a significant place in history. It was reconstructed by the Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent during his campaign to Rhodes. This historical monument offers a glimpse into the strategic importance of the region during the Ottoman era.
  35. Jewish Museum of Turkey35

    Jewish Museum of Turkey

     Beyoğlu Station, Tünel Line
    The Jewish Museum of Turkey, officially known as the Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews, is a cultural center that was established with the aim of educating society about the traditions and history of Turkish Jewry. The museum was inaugurated on November 25, 2001, by the Quincentennial Foundation, which was established in 1989 by 113 Turkish citizens, both Jews and Muslims, to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Sephardim to the Ottoman Empire.
  36. Samsun Kent Müzesi36

    Samsun Kent Müzesi

     Samsun
    The Samsun City Museum is situated in the İlkadım district of Samsun. It was officially opened to the public on February 12, 2013. The museum provides a comprehensive insight into the social, historical, cultural, geographical, and economic structure of Samsun, making it an informative destination for tourists interested in learning about the city's rich history and culture.
  37. Tekirdağ Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography37

    Tekirdağ Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography

     Süleymanpaşa
    The Tekirdağ Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography is a national museum located in Tekirdağ, Turkey. It showcases a wide range of archaeological artifacts discovered in and around the province. Additionally, the museum also exhibits ethnographical items that provide insights into the region's cultural history.
  38. Rize Atatürk Museum38

    Rize Atatürk Museum

     Rize
    The museum holds historical significance as Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, stayed in this house as a guest of Mehmet Mataracı during his country tour in 1924. This fact adds a layer of historical depth to the museum, making it a point of interest for those keen on learning about Atatürk's life and travels.
  39. Akşehir Museum39

    Akşehir Museum

     Akşehir
    The Akşehir Museum, also known as the Nasrettin Hoca Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, is a national museum located in the Akşehir district of Konya Province in central Turkey. It is a significant cultural and historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the region.
  40. Burhaniye National Forces Culture Museum40

    Burhaniye National Forces Culture Museum

     Burhaniye
    The Burhaniye National Forces Culture Museum is situated in the Burhaniye district of Balıkesir Province in western Turkey. This location is easily accessible and offers a rich cultural experience for tourists interested in Turkish history and culture.
  41. Çankırı Museum41

    Çankırı Museum

     Çankırı
    The Çankırı Museum, situated in Çankırı, Turkey, began its operations on June 9, 1972. It initially opened its doors to the public with an exhibition of 116 artifacts that were collected from the region. This historical establishment provides a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the area.
  42. Denizli Atatürk and Ethnography Museum42

    Denizli Atatürk and Ethnography Museum

     Denizli
    The Denizli Museum, also known as the Denizli Atatürk and Ethnography Museum, is a national museum located in Denizli, Turkey. It is a significant cultural and historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the country's past.
  43. Nevşehir Museum43

    Nevşehir Museum

     Nevşehir
    The Nevşehir Museum is situated in the heart of Nevşehir, Turkey. This region is renowned for its unique geological formations known as 'fairy chimneys', and it serves as the provincial center of the ancient region of Capadocia. The museum's location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of this fascinating area.
  44. Silifke Museum44

    Silifke Museum

     Silifke
    The Silifke Museum, also known as Silifke Müzesi, is situated in the southern Turkish city of Silifke, in the province of Mersin, in the region known as ancient Cilicia. This location is steeped in history, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the past.
  45. Aksaray Museum45

    Aksaray Museum

     Aksaray Merkez
    The Aksaray Museum, originally established in the historic Zinciriye Madrasa in 1969, was relocated to a new building in 2004. This move was necessitated by the increasing number of artifacts collected from the archaeological excavations at Acemhöyük, Aşıklı Höyük, Musular, and Güvercinkayası Höyük. The new location provides ample space to display these valuable pieces of history.
  46. Nazilli Municipality Ethnography Museum46

    Nazilli Municipality Ethnography Museum

     Nazilli
    The Ankara Palas Oteli, a historic building constructed as a hotel between 1923 and 1930, is situated on İstasyon Boulevard in the Nazilli district of Aydın. Today, it functions as the Nazilli Ethnography Museum. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region through the museum's diverse exhibits.
  47. Söğüt Ertuğrul Gazi Museum47

    Söğüt Ertuğrul Gazi Museum

     Söğüt
    The Söğüt Ertuğrul Gazi Museum, also known as the Söğüt Museum, is located in the Söğüt district of Bilecik Province in Turkey. This region is historically significant as it is the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire. The museum is named after Ertuğrul, the father of Osman I, who was the founder of the empire.
  48. 48

    Türk Hamam Müzesi

     Istanbul
    The Türk Hamam Müzesi, located in the Beypazarı district of Ankara, was established by Sema Demir, an academician at Gazi University who specializes in Turkish culture and museology. This museum is unique in its focus on Turkish bath culture, making it the first of its kind in Turkey.
  49. 49

    Karadeniz Ereğli Museum

     Karadeniz Ereğli
    The Karadeniz Ereğli Museum, situated in the district of Karadeniz Ereğli in Zonguldak province, has been operating as an archaeology and ethnography museum since 1998. It is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey. The museum is housed in a historic building known as Halil Pasha Mansion.
  50. 50

    Alanya Atatürk Evi Müzesi

     Alanya
    The Atatürk Evi Müzesi is a museum situated in the Alanya district of Antalya province. This location is significant as it is where the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, stayed during his visit to Alanya on February 18, 1935.
  51. 51

    Yalova City Museum

     Yalova Merkez
    The Yalova City Museum is conveniently located at the intersection of Rıhtım, Cumhuriyet and Gazi Paşa streets, right next to Yalova Port, by the sea. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists and provides a scenic view of the port and the sea.
  52. 52

    Yenişehir Şemaki Evi Müzesi

     Yenişehir
    The Bursa Yenişehir Şemaki Evi Museum is an 18th-century house built by the Şemaki family who migrated from the town of Şemaki in Iran to Yenişehir in Anatolia. This historical building offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and living conditions of the period.
  53. 53

    Ortahisar Ethnography Museum

     Ortahisar Beldesi
    The Ortahisar Ethnography Museum is a unique private institution located in the town of Ortahisar, Nevşehir, which is part of the Ürgüp region. The museum is known for its vivid depiction of the lifestyle of the Cappadocia region through the use of mannequins. This makes it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in learning about the local culture and history.
  54. 54

    Ödemiş Museum

     Ödemiş
    The Ödemiş Museum is located in the district of Ödemiş, within the İzmir Province of Turkey. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history and heritage of the area.
  55. 55

    Tahtakuşlar Ethnography Museum

     Edremit
    The Tahtakuşlar Ethnography Museum is a private ethnography gallery located in the Tahtakuşlar Village, within the boundaries of Güre Municipality. It was established by a primary school teacher named Alibey Kudar. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
  56. 56

    Osmaniye City Museum

     Osmaniye
    The Osmaniye City Museum is situated in the city of Osmaniye, Turkey. It is conveniently located on Karaoğlan Street, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum's location is a significant part of its charm, as it allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city's rich history and culture.