Being part of the Rahmi M. Koç Museology and Culture Foundation, the Rahmi M. Koc Transport Museum is a private non-profit institution, dedicated to the history of transport, industry and communications. The museum is housed in a former anchor foundry, and covers an area of 27,000 square meters, on the northern coast of Golden Horn.
Being trove of machines and other eccentric exhibits, the museum lies on three separate parts and showcases exhibitions of vintage cars, trains and submarines.
Fast Facts
Rahmi M. Koç Museum is a captivating blend of history and innovation, encompassing two distinctive sections — the Lengerhane Building and the Hasköy Shipyard.
- Lengerhane Building: Established during the reign of Sultan Ahmed III for shipyard facilities, this building was acquired by the Rahmi M. Koç Foundation in 1991. Opened to the public in 1994, it was renamed in 2016 in honor of Mustafa V. Koç in a ceremony attended by family members.
- Hasköy Shipyard: Acquired by the Foundation in 1996, this shipyard underwent meticulous restoration to join the museum in 2001, preserving its authenticity.
Rahmi M. Koç Museum, a pioneer in reflecting the advancements in industry, communication, and transportation history, is a portal to a fascinating journey through time.
The museum comprises sections dedicated to road transportation, rail transportation, aviation, maritime, machinery, communication, scientific instruments, models and toys, living history, and education.
Beyond the artifacts from Rahmi M. Koç’s private collection, the museum boasts contributions from various institutions and individuals.
Objects donated temporarily or permanently add a dynamic dimension to the museum. From phonograph needles to rotary phones, classic cars to airplane models, the museum’s diverse array of over a thousand objects captivates visitors.
For those seeking a brief respite during their museum exploration, the Tersane section offers charming options like Demlik Cafe, Fenerbahçe Ferry Cafe, and the Coca-Cola Buffet. Suzy’s Cafe Du Levant, evoking 1930s Paris, and Halat Restaurant, offering Mediterranean cuisine by the seaside, promise unforgettable moments for museum visitors.
What to See
This is a very unique and fantastic museum that you’ll find yourself like in the time machine witnessing the development of transport, industry and communications. Lots to see such as submarine, ferry boat, planes, impressive floating sheer-legs, railroad cars, locomotive and tram models and enjoy for sure.
The museum consists of three main parts that include; the historical Lengerhane Building, the historic Haskoy Dockyard and the Open-air Display Area. What you’ll see at the museum include:
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- Ataturk (founder of Turkish Republic) Collection (objects and goods)
- Scientific Instruments (various measurement and observatory instruments)
- Rail Transportation (railroad cars, locomotive and tram models)
- Maritime (wide collection of maritime objects, models, caiques, canoes, boats and yachts, outboard motors and Amphicar)
- Fenerbahce Ferry Boat (from 1953)
- Aviation (on the Open Air Display Area; Wright Brothers’ Glider Model, Douglas DC-3, and bomber F104 S Starfighter)
- Communication Instruments (telegraphs, telephones, phonographs, gramophones, cameras, and television sets)
- Road Transportation (19th century horse carriages, hansom cabs, strollers, bicycles, motorcycles, agricultural vehicles, classic automobiles, automobile models, fire engines, and steam cars)
- Engineering (steam and diesel engines)
- Models and Toys (18th century handcrafted models and, miniature objects and toys)
- Living History (Bazaar, Fishing Port, Rowboat Workshop, Motor Repair Shop, Carpenter’s Workshop and Lathes, Olive Oil Factory, Film Set, Ships’ Bridge)
Activities
Nostalgic Train Tour – Hasköy – Sütlüce Railway
Depart from the museum and embark on a whimsical journey along the Golden Horn shore with our nostalgic train running on a narrow gauge railway line. Please note that tours are currently suspended for maintenance, but the enchanting ride will soon resume.
Golden Horn Boat Tours
Steam Tug ‘Rosalie’: Meet Rosalie, one of the world’s oldest steam tugs, boasting a rare 95 hp compound steam engine. Experience the magic of a journey on the Golden Horn, relishing the historical charm of this unique vessel.
Steam Tug ‘Liman 2’: Commissioned by the Istanbul Port Company in 1935, Liman 2 served as a general harbour tug until 1988. Enjoy weekend tours on the Golden Horn aboard this historic vessel, witnessing the splendor of Istanbul from the water.
Fishing Boat ‘Kont Ostrorog’: The Kont Ostrorog, once a Black Sea fishing boat, has been transformed into a luxury pleasure boat. Delight in a leisurely cruise on the Golden Horn, basking in the unique blend of maritime history and contemporary comfort.
M/V Fenerbahçe Ferry Boat
The M/V Fenerbahçe, born in 1952, graced the seas as part of the Turkish Maritime Lines Fleet. With its two 1500 horsepower Sulzer diesel engines, this “garden type” ferry became a museum ship in 2009. Explore its rich history and enjoy the nostalgic ambiance at the onboard café.
Birthday Celebrations
Make your little one’s birthday unforgettable with a celebration at the museum. During open hours, combine museum visits with joyous carousel rides, creating a magical experience that will be etched in their memories forever. Whether young or young at heart, celebrate birthdays with laughter and exploration at Rahmi M. Koç Museum.
Cafes & Restaurants
When visiting the museum, you can take a break at museum’s cafes and restaurants.
Arçelik Telve Cafe: Arçelik, a beacon in Turkey’s home appliances, collaborates with Rahmi M. Koç Museum for Telve, an iconic product celebrating Turkish Coffee culture. Delve into the development and design journey of Telve at the Telve Cafe, nestled within the classic cars gallery.
Fenerbahçe Ferry Cafe: Indulge in Turkish tea with simit and feta, reminiscent of Istanbul’s fast food, in the recently restored canteen inspired by the original Fenerbahçe Ferry. Revel in the grandeur of this maritime experience.
Nostalgic Coca-Cola Truck Snackbar: Unwind at the nostalgic Coca-Cola snackbar, perched on a 1934 Dodge truck. Breathe in the fresh air of the museum’s garden as you relish delightful snacks like sandwiches, toasts, popcorn, ice-cream, tea, coffee, and, of course, Coca-Cola. A favorite spot for children and the young at heart.
Halat Restaurant: Located on the historic Golden Horn shores, Halat Restaurant by Divan brings gourmet cuisine to this historic peninsula. Immerse yourself in the allure of fine dining in one of Istanbul’s most storied locations.
Suzy’s Cafe Du Levant: Suzy’s Cafe Du Levant invites you into a romantic Parisian atmosphere by Mustafa V. Koç / Lengerhane building. Closed from July to October, it’s a haven for those seeking a nostalgic and charming culinary experience.
Insider Tips
What time should I visit the Rahmi Koc Transport Museum?
Come late in the afternoon on a Saturday or Sunday, and then when the Museum closes at 7 o’clock, drop into Nelson Pub for a drink, and than take your dinner on the shores of the Golden Horn at Halat Restaurant.
Why is Rahmi Koc Transport Museum famous?
Rahmi Koc Transport Museum is celebrated for its extensive collection of historic vehicles and transportation-related artifacts. It stands out as a testament to the evolution of transportation in Turkey and beyond.
The museum, founded by Rahmi Koc, a prominent Turkish industrialist and philanthropist, showcases a diverse array of vehicles, including classic cars, airplanes, boats, and trains. Its fame lies not only in the sheer variety of exhibits but also in the historical context provided, allowing visitors to witness the transformation of transportation over the years.
Is Rahmi Koc Transport Museum worth it?
For enthusiasts of technology, history, and transportation, Rahmi Koc Transport Museum is definitely worth a visit. The museum offers a fascinating journey through time, exploring the development of vehicles and their impact on society.
The well-curated exhibits provide an engaging experience, making it an educational and enjoyable destination for individuals and families alike. Whether you have a specific interest in classic cars, maritime history, or aviation, the museum’s comprehensive collection ensures there’s something for everyone.
Is there a dress code for Rahmi Koc Transport Museum?
There isn’t a strict dress code for Rahmi Koc Transport Museum. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing suitable for exploring the exhibits, especially if you plan to spend an extended period.
How long do you spend at the Rahmi Koc Transport Museum?
The duration of your visit to Rahmi Koc Transport Museum depends on your level of interest and the time you can allocate. On average, visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the museum, giving them ample time to appreciate the diverse collection of vehicles and related artifacts.
Visiting Hours & Admissions
Opening Hours
Open every day except Mondays, Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 – 17:30, Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 – 19:00
Closed on Mondays.
Special Days
Museum is closed on the day before and first day of religious holidays (Ramadan and Sacrifice feast), as well as December 31st and January 1st. See Turkey’s public holidays
Ticket Price
Please double check hours and admissions from rmk-museum.org.tr
How to Get There
Location
You’ll find the Rahmi Koc Transport Museum on the northern coast of Golden Horn, in the Haskoy neighborhood of Beyoglu district. Across the famous Balat neighborhood on the opposite shore. See the location map.
Transportation
Public Bus
The most practical way to get to Rahmi M. Koc Museum is via Municipal Public Bus. Hop off at the Kirmizi Minare bus stop. Lines include;
- Line 54TE, 47, 47Ç, 47E, 47K and 47N from Eminonu
- Line 54HT, 36T and 38T from Taksim
* 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)
You can also take the midi buses operating between Alibeykoy-Sisli. (not recommended)
Public Ferry
You can take Public Ferry Golden Horn line operating between Uskudar-Eyup and hop off at Haskoy pier. (Uskudar, Karakoy, Kasimpasa, Fener, Balat, Haskoy, Ayvansaray, Sutluce and Eyup stops)
Taxi
Most tourists find public buses not comfortable, if you feel so, than you should take a cab (check out Istanbul Taxi Guide) as Rahmi M. Koc Museum is some far away from city’s popular tourist zones.
Big Bus Istanbul
Note that Rahmi M. Koc Museum is on the Golden Horn Blue route of the hop on hop off double decker Big Bus sightseeing tour of Istanbul. You can also use it. More convenient way to reach the museum as you can take the next bus free for return (buses arrive every 60 mins), or visit nearby attractions on the route.
Contact Details
Address: Hasköy Cad. No: 5, Hasköy, Istanbul
Tel: +90 212 369 66 00
Web: rmk-museum.org.tr
