Miniatürk is an open-air miniature park in Sütlüce, on the northern shore of the Golden Horn, in the Beyoğlu district. It brings together more than 130 models, at a scale of 1/25, of the great monuments of Turkey and of the former territories of the Ottoman Empire: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Galata Tower, but also Ephesus, Pamukkale and the Kaaba. The park covers about 60,000 m², of which 15,000 m² are models, right by the water. It is an ideal visit for a family, or for grasping the geography of the country in an hour and a half before a trip to Anatolia. The models are grouped by region (Istanbul, Anatolia, former Ottoman territories). Allow about two hours, including a coffee break and the shop.
Highlights
The monuments of Istanbul
The Istanbul models are the most numerous: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, the Galata Tower… You photograph them at eye level and see at a glance the distance between them, which the real city does not allow. They are useful for planning before you go, or as a keepsake afterwards.
Anatolia and the ancient sites
The temples, theatres and sanctuaries of the Aegean coast, Cappadocia, Mount Nemrut and the stone houses of Mardin stand a few metres apart. It is a chance to spot what you want to see next, especially if you are planning a trip to Cappadocia from Istanbul.
A park made for families
Wide paths, lawns, a playground, restaurants and a gift shop: children can run between the models. The site also offers a small panoramic train, remote-controlled boats, boat rides and games; these extra activities are sometimes paid and do not necessarily run all year.
The former Ottoman territories
One section is devoted to monuments of the Balkans, the Middle East and North Africa that were once Ottoman, such as the Mostar bridge or the Al-Aqsa Mosque, making it a visual summary of the country's history.
Infos pratiques
Tips
The park is very close to the Rahmi M. Koç Museum, on the same shore: on Tuesday, when Topkapı is closed, the pair makes a good day with children (see our guide to Istanbul with children). Payment is by bank card or Istanbulkart only; no cash at the ticket desk. There is little shade in summer: bring a hat and water. Combined tickets with other municipal sites are offered at the desk: ask for them if you are visiting several places.
How to get there
Örnektepe Mahallesi, İmrahor Caddesi No. 7, Sütlüce, 34445 Beyoğlu, Istanbul. The site is on the northern shore of the Golden Horn, about two kilometres from the Rahmi M. Koç Museum. Several IETT bus lines serve Sütlüce from Taksim and Eminönü; by Metrobüs, get off at Halıcıoğlu station and continue by bus or taxi. A taxi from Taksim or Eminönü is the simplest option for a family. Check the route in the transport app before leaving; see Getting around Istanbul.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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