From Ephesus Ruins to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, and from Zelve-Paşabağları to Galata Tower; many of us have explored these landmarks during the day. But how about seeing these silent witnesses of history under the stars? Thanks to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s Night Museum Program, first launched in 2024 and expanded in 2025, select museums now remain open during evening hours, especially in summer. Running from June 1 to October 1, this initiative offers visitors a tranquil setting to go beyond the traditional museum experience.
Here are some of the notable sites in Turkey where you can enjoy museums at night:
Ephesus Ruins, İzmir
Under this program, the ancient city of Ephesus is open to visitors from 7 PM to 11 PM, Wednesday through Saturday. Illuminated with artistic lighting, the site offers an entirely new ambiance. With a small additional fee, MuseumCard holders can explore designated areas during these evening hours. Located in İzmir’s Selçuk district, Ephesus is home to the Celsus Library, Grand Theater, Hadrian’s Gate, and the Temple of Artemis, offering both physical and digital cultural experiences.
Hierapolis (Pamukkale) Ruins, Denizli
Founded by King Eumenes II of Pergamon in the 2nd century BCE, Hierapolis stuns visitors at sunset with glowing travertine terraces and serene ancient ruins. Thanks to the thermal waters, it’s even more enjoyable to visit in the evening. The site remains open until 11 PM, and it’s also accessible via virtual tours with just one click.
Four Must-Visit Museums in Istanbul
In Istanbul, you can immerse yourself in history until 10 PM in some of the city’s most iconic museums. The Istanbul Archaeology Museums, which host one of the richest archaeological collections in the country, are part of the night museum initiative and available digitally as well.
Other evening options include:
- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts: showcasing pieces from the Seljuk and Ottoman eras
- Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum: where you can admire the architecture and enjoy virtual reality tours
- Galata Tower: open until 11 PM (ticket sales close at 10 PM), offering a breathtaking view of Istanbul’s illuminated skyline
Antalya Welcomes Summer with Museums
Antalya embraces summer not just with its beaches, but also through its museums. Six major museums and ancient sites here stay open until 10 PM as part of the night museum program:
- Antalya Museum: one of the largest and richest archaeology museums in Turkey, also available for virtual visits
- Alanya Museum: representing the region’s cultural past
- Ancient Aspendos: famous for its grand Roman theater lit beautifully at night
- Patara: one of Lycia’s key ancient cities, glowing with historical light post-sunset
- Side Ancient City: with colonnaded streets, harbors, and majestic ruins perfect for night explorers
- Necropolis Museum: offering insight into local burial customs, now open at night
Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, Muğla
Located inside Bodrum Castle, this rare museum showcases shipwrecks, ancient amphorae, and submerged treasures. Open until 10 PM, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology turns into a visual wonder with special lighting, enhancing its mystical aura.
Subterranean History in Nevşehir
Cappadocia isn’t just about its unique landforms; it’s also a treasure trove of underground wonders. Zelve-Paşabağları Ruins, open until 9 PM, offer a twilight hike among fairy chimneys. Meanwhile, the underground cities of Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı, and Özkonak provide a cooler and less crowded experience at night, perfect for those seeking to uncover the hidden face of Cappadocia.
From Full-Sized Sculptures to Amazon Mosaics, Şanlıurfa
The Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, Turkey’s largest, is renowned for displaying the world’s oldest full-sized human statue. Open until 9 PM, it also offers a virtual tour experience. Right next door, the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum features an unmatched mosaic of Amazon warrior women, drawing mythology and history lovers alike. Together, these two unique museums enrich the night museum experience in the Southeast.
Living Heritage of the East, Erzurum
Open until 9 PM, the Erzurum Museum displays artifacts from Eastern Anatolia with special lighting effects. Its halls feature exhibits on cultural evolution, religion, and traditions from the region. Virtual tours are also available for online explorers.
Journey into History in Ankara
Two major cultural sites in Ankara –Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Ethnography Museum- stay open until 9 PM during summer. The former offers a time-spanning collection from the Paleolithic era to Roman times, all showcased with atmospheric lighting. The latter highlights the art, beliefs, and daily life of Turkish culture. Both museums welcome both physical and digital visitors.
Nemrut Statues Illuminated at Dawn, Adıyaman
The Mount Nemrut Ruins, one of the most visited historical sites in Southeastern Turkey, houses colossal limestone statues built by King Antiochus I of Commagene. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, it offers a surreal visit between 4 AM and 9 AM, when the statues are bathed in morning light. This magical place is also available virtually: click and explore!
