Audio GuideIstanbul Aquarium

On Istanbul’s European side, just steps from the shores of the Marmara Sea, you will find the Istanbul Aquarium: a destination where modern ambition and ancient maritime culture flow together. This world-class aquarium opened in the summer of two thousand eleven after nearly a decade of planning, design changes, and construction. Originally conceived in two thousand three as a city project, it became a reality thanks to Istanbul’s city government, with support from local companies and international experts. The result is much more than a collection of tanks; it is a celebration of both global seas and Istanbul’s historical role as a crossroads between continents.

BAYKUŞ

The experience leads you along a path inspired by legendary trade and migration routes. Each themed area—from the cool blue Black Sea to the colorful reefs of the Pacific—brings the sights, sounds, and even scents of various marine worlds to life. As you move through seventeen different zones, including dramatic settings like the Mediterranean and a lush, tropical rainforest, you will encounter over one thousand five hundred species, nearly fifteen thousand creatures in total. Look for animals from Turkey’s own waters as well as distant oceans. The design weaves in local stories and imagery: boat models, ancient coins, and wall art echo Istanbul’s rich seafaring heritage, while digital screens and interactive exhibits narrate both natural wonders and human history.

Huseyin Namik

The site’s links to global standards, as a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, ensure not only careful stewardship of animals but also immersive storytelling through art, sound, and interactive displays. Much of the project’s charm lies in how it bridges recreation and education—serving as both an upscale leisure spot and a vibrant tribute to Istanbul's enduring relationship with the sea. Cafés offer moments of relaxation with panoramic aquatic views, and the gift shop captures the memories of a journey that feels as much about discovery as delight. Istanbul Aquarium continues to shape the city’s image as a meeting point between worlds—where every visit is both an adventure and a cultural voyage.

Yonathan Berhane

محمد أمين