Step into a world of wonder and awe at Istanbul Dolphinarium, where the captivating tale of marine marvels unfolds. Istanbul Dolphinarium is one of the most popular theme parks and dolphinarium in Istanbul, located in the Eyup district, along the Golden Horn. It is also the largest indoor Dolphinarium in Europe.

What to Expect?

In the waning days of 2008, its doors swung open, marking the beginning of a unique collaboration between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Turkey—a testament to the enduring cultural and social ties between two nations.

Here, you can enjoy the dolphin shows, discover the world of the sea mammals such as dolphins, playful fur seals, massive walruses and the gorgeous white whale and spend great time at the Istanbul Dolphinarium.

Nestled along the newly adorned shores of the Golden Horn, the show center is a sanctuary for marine creatures, meticulously designed and constructed to meet international standards for their well-being. The setting, surrounded by lush parks and green spaces, paints a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

As you approach, a complimentary parking lot awaits, accommodating up to 120 vehicles, ensuring a stress-free start to your adventure. For those opting for public transport, a short 5-minute stroll leads to bus, minibus, and tram stops.

Entering the show arena, a marvel in itself, with a total capacity of 900 seats, including an exclusive VIP TRIBUNE for 50 guests. The story unfolds in this mesmerizing space where dolphins and their marine companions showcase their talents in a spectacle that transcends international standards.

Just outside, the cafeteria beckons—a cozy haven with a 60-person indoor space and an inviting 60-person outdoor garden. It’s the perfect setting for pre and post-show moments, where families and friends can share warm conversations in a serene atmosphere.

The cafeteria also transforms into a magical venue for special occasions, offering tailored menus for birthdays, weddings, graduation parties, and corporate meetings.

Attractions & Activities

You can watch the dolphin shows, swim with the dolphins, dive with the dolphins, interact with the dolphins or take dolphin therapy. The dolphin shows last about 1 hour and visitors may also take photos with the dolphins.

Swimming with the Dolphins

Dive into an extraordinary experience at Istanbul Dolphinarium by swimming with dolphins, touching them, and embracing the positive energy that will easily whisk away the stresses of your day. As the facility is indoors, you can enjoy swimming with dolphins all year round.

To Swim with Dolphins:

• Applicable for anyone aged 4 and above.
• It is essential to ensure that no jewelry (rings, hairpins, watches, earrings, necklaces, etc.) is worn during the swimming session.

For your dolphin swimming experience, please be sure to make a reservation by contacting the facility in advance.

Meet the Dolphins

“Meet the Dolphins” program specially designed for children aged 4-12 at Istanbul Dolphinarium. This exclusive experience allows young guests to forge a close connection with enchanting dolphins, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. The best part? No swimming skills required!

Children can interact one-on-one with the dolphins, touch them, and enjoy delightful moments together—all without the need to know how to swim. This unique program, tailored for children, takes place in 10-minute sessions under the supervision of their experienced trainers who specialize in working with both professionals and children.

Kids who don’t know how to swim can comfortably sit by the poolside and establish direct communication with the dolphins from an extremely close distance. Your children can join the ‘Meet the Dolphins’ program individually or in groups of up to 5 participants.

Children participating in the program will:

• Learn scientific facts about the physiology, behaviors, habits, and learning abilities of dolphins from our trainers.
• Greet and touch the dolphins.
• Engage in various games with the dolphins, just like our trainers do during the regular shows.
• Listen to the enchanting songs of the dolphins.

To join the program, you need to make a reservation. Don’t forget to bring swimwear, clean slippers, and a towel with you. While it’s not mandatory, you’re welcome to bring a life jacket for your child if you wish.

Special Swimming Program with Dolphins

At Istanbul Dolphinarium, the special swimming program with dolphins is individually tailored for each participating child, conducted under the guidance of professional trainers and a psychological counselor.

The recommended program duration, advised by experts to achieve progress and stability, is generally 10 sessions. However, depending on the child’s response and individual circumstances, this duration can be extended or shortened. Each session lasts for 45 minutes, with 30 minutes directly engaging with the dolphins.

Video Tour

Visiting Hours & Admissions

Opening Hours

Istanbul Dolphinarium operates seven days a week from 09:00 to 18:00.

However, the general visitations are only open during show hours. The timings for programs like swimming, diving, or getting acquainted with dolphins vary depending on reservation situations.

For these programs, please be sure to call in advance and make a reservation.

Ticket Price

Please double check hours, show schedule and admissions from istanbuldolphinarium.com

You do not need to reserve the show tickets in advance; you can buy them at the Dolphinarium’s ticket window on the day of your visit.

For group visits (20 people or more) you need to make a reservation.

How to Get There?

Location

You’ll find the Istanbul Dolphinarium on the far end northern coast of the Golden Horn coast, in the Eyup district. Across the Miniaturk on the opposite shore. See the location map.

Transportation

Public Bus

The most practical way to get to Istanbul Dolphinarium is via Municipal Public Bus.

The closest IETT bus stops to Istanbul Dolphinarium are named “Çeltik” and “Sakarya Mahallesi”.

You can find information about the bus numbers passing through these nearby stops by visiting our contact page.

Additionally, you can board minibuses traveling from Eyüp to Alibeyköy (such as Aksaray-Yeşilpınar, Aksaray-Alibeyköy, Aksaray-Cebeci Mahallesi, Göktürk-Eyüp minibuses).

You can also catch minibuses departing from Aksaray at the metro’s ‘Aksaray’ station and the metrobus’s ‘Edirnekapı’ stop.

Check Municipal public bus routes and timetables from iett.istanbul (just type the location on the search bar and it will show the bus lines with routes and stops)

Private Vehicle

If you are coming by private vehicle, follow the direction of Eyüp-Alibeyköy and use the exits from TEM or the ring road at Eyüp. The entrance to our parking lot is located across from Eyüp State Hospital.

Taxi

Most tourists find public buses not comfortable, if you feel so, than you should take a cab (check out Istanbul Taxi Guide) as Istanbul Dolphinarium is some far away from city’s popular tourist zones.

Contact Details

Address: Silahtarağa Mah. Silahtarağa Cad. No:20, Eyup, Istanbul
Tel: +90 530 511 45 16
Web: istanbuldolphinarium.com