This summer, Türkiye invites travellers to experience its storied past in a whole new light – literally. As part of the Night Museums Project, 25 of the country’s most iconic cultural landmarks are now staying open well into the evening, offering immersive after-dark experiences across cities, coasts and historical regions.

The initiative, launched in 2023 by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, welcomed over 395,000 visitors in its first year. Encouraged by this overwhelming response, the 2025 edition now expands into even more cities – from the grand ruins of Ephesus to the surreal underground cities of Cappadocia.

A Sustainable Shift in Heritage Tourism

Far from being a passing trend, the Night Museums Project forms part of Türkiye’s broader commitment to sustainable tourism. By extending opening hours, it not only eases daytime overcrowding but also encourages longer, more meaningful stays in lesser-known areas – supporting the goal of distributing tourism across all 81 provinces, all year round.

Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins under starlight or wandering museum halls without the crowds, these twilight tours offer a more atmospheric and intimate encounter with Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage.

25 Historic Sites Now Open for Evening Visits

Istanbul

1. Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum – Open until 10pm

2. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts – Open until 10pm

3. Istanbul Archaeological Museums – Open until 10pm

4. Galata Tower – Open until 11pm

Ankara

5. Museum of Anatolian Civilisations – Open until 9pm

6. Ethnography Museum – Open until 9pm

İzmir

7. Ephesus Ancient City – Open Wednesday to Saturday until 11pm

8. Culture and Arts Factory (Alsancak Tekel Factory) – Open until 9pm

Turkish Riviera & Western Türkiye

9. Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology – Open until 10pm

10. Hierapolis (Denizli) – Open until 10pm

11. Aspendos (Antalya) – Open until 10pm

12. Patara (Antalya) – Open until 10pm

13. Side (Antalya) – Open until 10pm

14. Antalya Museum – Open until 10pm

15. Alanya Museum – Open until 10pm

16. Necropolis Museum – Open until 10pm

Cappadocia

17. Derinkuyu Underground City – Open until 9pm

18. Kaymaklı Underground City – Open until 9pm

19. Özkonak Underground City – Open until 9pm

Eastern Türkiye

20. Mount Nemrut (Adıyaman) – Sunrise visits from 4am to 9am

21. Erzurum Museum – Open until 9pm

Southeast Anatolia

22. Zeugma Mosaic Museum (Gaziantep) – Open until 9pm

23. Şanlıurfa Museum – Open until 9pm

24. Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum (Şanlıurfa) – Open until 9pm

Black Sea Region

25. Samsun Museum – Open until 10pm

A New Kind of Museum Experience

The Night Museums Project offers more than just convenience – it reimagines the way we engage with heritage. With cooler temperatures, fewer crowds and moody lighting, visitors can connect with Türkiye’s past in a deeper, more reflective way.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a night owl, or simply curious, these extended hours provide the perfect reason to explore Türkiye’s treasures after dark – no sun hat required.

For more information, visit Night Museums Project.

Photos courtesy of GoTurkiye.com.