A cosy corner in the Ataturk Cultural Centre. Image by yellow book.

Turkey tours to Istanbul have cemented the city’s reputation as one of the best places to take in classical music and ballet – why not explore a few of the premier cultural attractions on offer in Istanbul when you visit?


The Akbank Culture and Arts Centre

One of Istanbul’s most important venues when it comes to cultural events such as music and theatre, the Akbank Culture and Arts Centre is based in the Beyoglu district. Fully renovated at the turn of the century, it combines modern facilities with striking design, with a 135 seat multipurpose concert hall hosting all kinds of events.

The Atatürk Cultural Centre

Definitely one of the most impressive places to experience high art on your Turkey tours, the Atatürk Cultural Centre is located on Taksim square, and is the main venue for classical music in the city. The Grand Stage has seating for over 1300 people, and with other rooms dedicated to different performance spaces, the venue is never short of a crowd, hosting regular performances of the Turkish State Opera and Ballet. During the summer months, it is home to the Istanbul Art and Culture Festival.

SantralIstanbul

A newer venue with a difference – first opened in 2007, this venue was formerly the Silahtaraĸa Power Plant, and two of the old engine rooms have been turned into the Museum of Energy. The complex today features a modern art gallery, a large theatre, concert halls and a public library – plenty of reasons to make a visit part of your itinerary on Turkey tours.