Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum: Palace of Carpets
Address
Hippodrome, Ibrahim Pasha Palace, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Suggested Duration
45 minutes
From
8 EUR
Skip the Line
Fast-track entry, included with the Museum Pass
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Free cancellation up to 24h before
Reserve now, pay later
A former grand vizier’s palace on the edge of the Hippodrome, now crammed with more antique carpets than most people see in a lifetime, plus a quiet terrace with one of the best uninterrupted views of the Blue Mosque in the city.
Highlights
- Explore the actual palace of Ibrahim Pasha, grand vizier of Suleiman the Magnificent
- See one of the largest collections of antique carpets on public display anywhere
- Finish on the Hippodrome terrace with a clear view all the way to the Blue Mosque
Included / Excluded
- Entrance to the Carpet and Manuscript Galleries
- Entry to the Ethnography wing and terrace overlooking the Hippodrome
- Live guide (self-guided unless booked as a guided tour)
Good to Know
- One of the less crowded major sights in Sultanahmet, a nice midday break away from the larger queues
- One of the best photo angles of the Blue Mosque is on this terrace
- Closed on Mondays, open year round
Available languages: Turkish, English
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum located exactly?
It's housed in the former Ibrahim Pasha Palace, right on the Hippodrome square between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Is it worth a visit if I have already seen Topkapi and Hagia Sophia?
Yes, the carpet and manuscript collections here are different in kind from anything at the bigger sites, and the crowds are noticeably thinner.
How long should I allow for a visit?
The highlights take about 45 minutes, but you'll take longer if you dawdle in the calligraphy and manuscript rooms.
