A short walk from the trendy neighbourhood of Cihangir and housed in a converted warehouse is the Istanbul Modern Art Museum. Maybe because of its manageable size or the fact it provides a welcome contrast to the city’s tourist-packed historical sites, the gallery is an engaging and enjoyable space filled with exhibits featuring both established and emerging Turkish artists. When you need a break from looking at art, try the view from the gallery café where you can sip apple tea and stare out onto the Bosphorous watching the boats and ferries glide by. Entry is free on Thursdays.

Meclis-i Mebusan Cad. Liman İşletmeleri
Sahası Antrepo No: 4, 34433 Karaköy
www.istanbulmodern.org/en/f_index.html
+90(0) 212 334 73 00

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Istanbul’s equivalent to the Tate Modern is a stylish conversion of a warehouse right on the Bosphorus with stunning views across to the Old City and the Galata Bridge. The Gallery houses a vibrant permanent exhibition tracing the development of modern Turkish Art and also temporary exhibitions. Go early on a Thursday, when admission is free and check there are no cruise liners parked alongside, otherwise the view from the superb café-restaurant is completely ruined, unless you are in love with cruise liners!

www.istanbulmodern.org
Meclis-i Mebusan Ave. Liman İşletmeleri
Sahası Antrepo No:4 Karaköy
+90(0) 212 334 73 00
Google map: bit.ly/idBB5G

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Sick of the layers of history in Istanbul? OK, that's unlikely, but here's an alternative for the culturally omnivorous.

Officially the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, it has both a permanent collection of modern Turkish art and visiting exhibitions and installations and is located in the Tophane district, between Karaköy and Dolmabaçhe palace.

Its location is not obvious, though it is not far from the tramway that runs along Necatibey Caddesi - it is on the waterfront, in a converted warehouse-type building, with stunning views of the Bosphorus from its café. Though some detractors will take delight in spotting international influences on some of the Turkish artists, the place itself is a model of museum/gallery planning, with an excellent shop and impressive education activities.

www.istanbulmodern.org/

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends