Toy Museum Verified listing

Nestled in a charming historic wooden mansion in the Göztepe district on Istanbul’s Asian side, the Istanbul Toy Museum brings over 4,000 toys and miniatures from Turkey and around the world to life. Many pieces date back nearly two centuries, and the collection—curated by poet and author Sunay Akın—offers a magical window into the evolution of childhood and play. Each room is designed like a miniature stage, with themed environments such as a gallery of space toys under twinkling stars or model trains inside a replica train compartment, making the experience immersive and fun for all ages.

Families will find the museum both educational and entertaining. In different themed sections, kids can explore the history of space travel, trace the path of industrial-age locomotives, and see vintage toys from across cultures. The first floor features the preserved storefront of a beloved 1950s Istanbul toy shop, and there’s also a basement café styled like a dollhouse—an adorable place to take a break. With so many visual surprises, the museum keeps children engaged while also offering nostalgic moments for adults.

The museum is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly and is open Tuesday through Sunday, usually from 10 AM to 6 PM. It’s closed on Mondays. Tickets cost around 420 TL for adults and 360 TL for children aged 3 and up, while younger children and select groups may enter free. Families can also book interactive workshops, puppet shows, storytelling sessions, and even birthday events, making this a hands-on, affordable, and delightful outing for locals and tourists alike.