Buy Now

All About Istanbul Toy Museum

The Istanbul Toy Museum is a toy museum in Istanbul, Turkey, situated in the Goztepe neighborhood of the Kadikoy district. Sunay Akin, a Turkish poet and writer, established the museum in 2005. The museum opened on April 23, Turkey's National Sovereignty and Children's Day, which is a national holiday. The museum now has 4,000 toys and miniatures from Turkey and elsewhere on display; many of the exhibits are antiques, with some dating back almost 200 years. The Eyup Toy Shop, a well-known toy store that closed in the 1950s, is located on the museum's first floor. The museum was nominated for and made the shortlist for the European Museum Academy Children's Museum Award in 2012.

Ekim Erkan
Ekim Erkan
September 13, 2019 • 4 min
All About Istanbul Toy Museum


History of Istanbul Toy Museum


If you want to visit The Istanbul Toy Museum, founded on April 23, 2005 by the renowned poet and novelist Sunay Akin, contains the most notable specimens of toy history from the 1700s to present. Sunay Akin's toys, which he purchased and gathered from collectors, antique stores, and auctions throughout his 20-year journey across more than 40 countries, are on display in a historical house for people who are interested. 


These unique toys also provide visitors with a fun and engaging method to learn about the world's history (For instance, Moon landing efforts are told in the section where space toys are exhibited). Because of all of these features, the museum draws not only children, but also teenagers and adults, providing a chance for three generations to spend quality time together. Sunay Akin, a well-known poet and novelist, founded the Istanbul Toy Museum, as we've previously stated. Aydan Dogan, a stage designer, was in charge of the museum's décor. The Toy Museum is the world's "first museum," founded by a poet and built by a theater designer. 


 


Inside Istanbul Toy Museum


The Istanbul Toy Museum is housed in a historical palace owned by the Sunay Akin family. Over 4,000 toys from 40 different nations have been collected over the course of 20 years on five levels of the ancient house. These unique toys were initially organized by topic, then relocated to carefully designed spaces inside the rooms and corridors. Native American, Space, Submarine, and other topics are represented in these sections. The collection contains unique items such as Fawn Zeller's Mona Lisa doll, which is the only one of its kind in the world. Because it is a kid-favorite site, visiting Istanbul Toy Museum is particularly beneficial if you are visiting Istanbul with your child.


Ticket Prices for Istanbul Toy Museum


If you want to visit Istanbul Toy Museum, you have to pay a fee of 3 Euros per person. However, when you have an Istanbul Tourist Pass, you gain instant free access to this museum and more! If your children are under 6, you do not have to buy a ticket or an Istanbul Tourist Pass, but you still have to buy one for yourself. With Istanbul Tourist Pass, you gain access to more than 100+ attractions while saving more than half of your money. Explore Istanbul Tourist Pass and its attractions and museums today! 


How to Get to the Istanbul Toy Museum?


The Istanbul Toy Museum is situated in Kadikoy's Göztepe neighborhood. With your own vehicle, or by bus or subway, you may easily get to the museum. To get to the museum, take bus numbers 10B, 10S, 14, 17, 17L to Goztepe; GZ1 to “Tutuncu Mehmet Efendi” stop; or ER1 to “Erenköy” stop and walk a short distance. If you're using the metro, take the Kartal-Kadikoy line and exit at the "Yeni Sahra" station. From there, it's a short walk to the museum.

Find more Istanbul inspiration

Summer & Sea Holiday in Istanbul: Kilyos
calendar_today Mar 29, 2023 • 9 min

Summer & Sea Holiday in Istanbul: Kilyos

Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city full of things to do, see, and experience. Generally, Istanbul is famous for its historical buildings, beautiful mosques, ancient churches, and amazing Bosphorus. But Istanbul has also vibrant city life and colorful nightlife. In this article, we are going to look at one of the unique places in Istanbul, Kilyos. […]

Running Through History: Istanbul’s Spectacular Running Events
calendar_today Sep 9, 2023 • 7 min

Running Through History: Istanbul’s Spectacular Running Events

Istanbul, a city where East meets West, is not just a treasure trove of history and culture but also a vibrant hub for running enthusiasts. The running events in Istanbul offer a unique blend of athleticism, stunning scenery, and a journey through centuries of civilization. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a recreational jogger, Istanbul's […]

Enjoy Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul
calendar_today Oct 6, 2021 • 4 min

Enjoy Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul

You are visiting Istanbul and you want to have fun on the Bosphorus for the whole day! This is fantastic because anybody visiting the city will enjoy all the sea has to offer via a Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul. 
 
 Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus Strait. It connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara […]

Magic of the Fire of Anatolia Dance Show: A Captivating Cultural Journey
calendar_today May 23, 2023 • 12 min

Magic of the Fire of Anatolia Dance Show: A Captivating Cultural Journey

The Fire of Anatolia is a renowned Turkish dance group that has gained international acclaim for its captivating performances. Known for their dynamic choreography, vibrant costumes, and energetic music, they have become one of Turkey's most popular cultural exports. 
 
 Introducing an exciting new addition to the Istanbul Tourist Pass® experience – a complimentary […]

Istanbul: The Legend of Seven Hills and the Foundation of Constantinople
calendar_today Jan 9, 2023 • 9 min

Istanbul: The Legend of Seven Hills and the Foundation of Constantinople

Istanbul is a city with a deep history and amazing stories. There are many things to explore in this beautiful city. In this article, we will take a closer look at one of the legends rooted in the city's rich history.  
 
 Before starting digging into the past, check out the 100+ amazing attractions, […]

Easy Transportation in Istanbul
calendar_today Feb 6, 2023 • 6 min

Easy Transportation in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the world's most crowded cities, with a surface area of over 5,000 km². Getting around is not always straightforward. Furthermore, the topography of the area makes the construction of public transit difficult. Istanbul was built on several hills. 
 
 In order to improve public transportation in Istanbul, the city is […]

Best districts in Istanbul only Istanbulites know
calendar_today Nov 14, 2022 • 4 min

Best districts in Istanbul only Istanbulites know

Istanbul is a vast city, with so much to offer. Although there are so many spectacular places that almost all tourists have on their lists, you can get the most out of the city only by experiencing how life for a true Istanbulite is. Below destinations are the places only ones who have good taste […]

Most Popular Historic Mosques You Must Visit in Istanbul
calendar_today Feb 21, 2023 • 9 min

Most Popular Historic Mosques You Must Visit in Istanbul

Thanks to its deep history which is comprised of many empires, cultures and religions, Istanbul is one of the most culturally rich and diverse cities in the world

4 Best Indian restaurants in Istanbul
calendar_today Oct 14, 2022 • 3 min

4 Best Indian restaurants in Istanbul

Indian cuisine is widely loved across the globe for its rich ingredients, intoxicating aromas, and fresh blend of spices. Its historic staple diet consisting of whole-wheat flour, rice, and vegetables makes it unique and flavoursome. Travellers, especially from south Asia, are always on the lookout for quality restaurants offering Indian cuisine. If you're one of […]

Best Budget-Friendly Hotels and Hostels in Istanbul
calendar_today Apr 10, 2023 • 7 min

Best Budget-Friendly Hotels and Hostels in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that attracts millions of visitors every year, with its rich history, culture, and delicious cuisine. However, one of the biggest challenges for travelers is finding affordable accommodation in the city. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget hotels and hostels that offer clean, comfortable, and affordable accommodations. In this article, we are […]