Türkiye has taken cultural tourism to a whole new level with the return of its Night Museums Project, giving visitors the chance to explore 27 of the country’s most iconic sites — all after sunset. The project, launched by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, allows travelers to enjoy the serenity and mystique of Türkiye’s ancient landmarks under a blanket of stars, creating unforgettable, moonlit moments of discovery.
After its debut success last year with over 395,000 visitors, the 2025 season sees the project expanding across more regions, offering immersive night-time access to archaeological wonders, historic museums, and centuries-old cities. From the labyrinthine underground cities of Cappadocia to the majestic ruins of Ephesus, these night visits are not just tours — they’re starlit journeys into the heart of history.
A representative from the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) summed it up perfectly: “This isn’t sightseeing. This is time travel — lit by starlight.” With curated lighting, extended hours, and timed entries, each location is designed to enhance the storytelling experience while supporting sustainable tourism by distributing foot traffic throughout the day and evening.
In Istanbul, night entries are now available at legendary locations such as the Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum, Galata Tower, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and select galleries at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. Meanwhile in Izmir, the beautifully restored Culture and Arts Factory (formerly Alsancak Tekel Factory) and the awe-inspiring Ephesus ruins are now open from Wednesday to Saturday nights.
Cappadocia, a favorite among Pakistani travelers, also joins the lineup with extended evening access at the Underground Cities of Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı, and Özkonak, open until 9 p.m. Other cities participating in this magical cultural showcase include Antalya, Adiyaman, Bodrum, Şanlıurfa, Samsun, and Erzurum — offering a window into Türkiye’s layered heritage from the Hittites to the Ottomans.
The Night Museums Project is part of Türkiye’s larger tourism strategy to encourage year-round exploration across all 81 provinces. For Pakistani tourists, especially those who appreciate history, architecture, and unique experiences, this initiative is a must-add to the travel bucket list. Whether you’re wandering through glowing ruins or standing in the silence of a once-bustling ancient hall, Türkiye is proving that some of the best stories are told after dark.
