
Izmir Culture and Arts Factory
A former cigarette factory transformed into a vibrant hub for archaeology, art, and Turkish history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Izmir Culture and Arts Factory
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former cigarette factory transformed into a vibrant hub for archaeology, art, and Turkish history.
"A wonderful museum allocated through three floors about Western Turkey, particularly Izmir, from prehistoric time to recent history."

Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself at least 2 hours to explore the various museums and exhibits. :clock1:
Cash for Tickets
Be prepared to pay for tickets in cash, as card payments may not always be accepted. :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Archaeological Treasures
Archaeology and Ethnography Museum
Discover ancient artifacts, including rare terracotta sarcophagi and early Lydian coins.

Artistic Masterpieces
Painting and Sculpture Museum
Explore Turkish art, from Impressionist to Cubist movements, across three floors.

Founding of Modern Turkey Exhibits
Ottoman and Republic Period Exhibits
See unique items like Atatürk's thermos bottle, offering a glimpse into modern Turkish history.

Historic Factory Ambiance
Former Cigarette Factory Building
Experience the unique atmosphere of the old cigarette factory, with displays showcasing its industrial past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for a Peaceful Experience
Ticket Options and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself at least 2 hours to explore the various museums and exhibits.
:clock1:Cash for Tickets
Be prepared to pay for tickets in cash, as card payments may not always be accepted.
:moneybag:Check Museum Access
Tickets often grant access to specific museums; plan your visit accordingly.
:ticket:Air-Conditioned Comfort
Enjoy a cool escape from the heat in the air-conditioned galleries.
:snowflake:Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself at least 2 hours to explore the various museums and exhibits.
:clock1:Cash for Tickets
Be prepared to pay for tickets in cash, as card payments may not always be accepted.
:moneybag:Check Museum Access
Tickets often grant access to specific museums; plan your visit accordingly.
:ticket:Air-Conditioned Comfort
Enjoy a cool escape from the heat in the air-conditioned galleries.
:snowflake:Friendly Staff
Expect helpful and friendly staff to assist you during your visit.
:smiley:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Izmir Culture and Arts Factory for its diverse collections, ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art and historical exhibits on the founding of Turkey. The peaceful, air-conditioned atmosphere and helpful staff are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some find the layout confusing and note that ticket options can be restrictive, with a preference for cash payments.
"A very nice collection of antiquities, but also items from the ottoman period and the founding of the modern Turkish state. A few interesting items were unusual terra Cotta sarcophagi, a tiny gold coin minted by King Croesus of Lydia (these were the earliest known form coin currency), and Mustapha Kemal Atatürk's thermos bottle. The displays often focus on how things were manufactured in the past, and I interesting and refreshing approach.
The building was an old cigarette factory and sing rooms display artifacts from their time. Note that the campus also has a modern art museum. This is to the right and back from the main entrance. Another building houses a coffee shop, chocolate shop, and various rooms to sit and relax."
maarten rutgers
"A wonderful museum allocated through three floors about Western Turkey, particularly Izmir, from prehistoric time to recent history. The museum was quiet, not crowded and is air conditioned.
The workers were super helpful. The entrance price is 60₺ for Turkish (museum pass). For foreigners it’s 10€, which also could be paid in liras. Only cash accepted."
Hoang Thuy Duong
"It's such an interesting museum. I had limited time in the museum, so I didn't take a lot of pictures, but I learned a lot. I recommend a couple of hours if you have time."
Beverly (Beverly)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Izmir Culture and Arts Factory is accessible via public transport within Izmir. Many visitors use local buses or taxis to reach the Alsancak area where it's located.
Exploring the city center is also a great way to discover its various districts.While specific parking details can vary, the Alsancak area generally has parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking apps or signs upon arrival.
Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, especially if you are in the Alsancak or Kordon areas. The factory is part of the vibrant city life.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For foreigners, tickets are approximately 10€, payable in Lira. Turkish citizens can use a Museum Pass or pay a reduced rate of 60 Lira.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available, and it's often recommended to purchase tickets on-site. Cash payment is frequently preferred.
Opening hours can sometimes be inconsistent with online listings. It's best to verify the current operating times closer to your visit.
No, tickets typically grant access to specific museums within the factory complex. You may need to purchase separate tickets or choose a combination.
While specific discounts aren't detailed, the Turkish Museum Pass offers various benefits. For international visitors, the 10€ fee is standard.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The factory houses the Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, the Painting and Sculpture Museum, libraries, and exhibits on the Ottoman and modern Turkish periods.
It's recommended to allocate at least a couple of hours to explore the different collections and exhibits thoroughly.
Yes, the museum is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment for visitors, especially during warmer months.
Information on guided tours is not readily available. However, the exhibits are often self-explanatory, and staff can be helpful.
The atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful, making it a relaxing place to explore history and art.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a coffee shop and a chocolate shop within the complex, offering places to relax and refuel.
The cafe typically offers beverages and light snacks. It's a good spot to take a break during your visit.
The factory is located in the Alsancak district, which has numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of Turkish and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always a good idea to check for specific restrictions in certain galleries or exhibits.
The architectural elements of the old factory building, along with the diverse museum exhibits, offer great photo opportunities.
The factory hosts various art exhibitions, which may include photography. Keep an eye on their schedule for special events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the more visually striking exhibits and perhaps bringing along a small notebook for kids to sketch what they find interesting. The air-conditioned environment also makes it a comfortable outing on a hot day. Remember that tickets might be for specific museums, so plan your route to maximize engagement for the whole family.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond the dedicated art museum, the entire factory complex is a canvas. The industrial architecture of the former cigarette factory provides a unique backdrop for appreciating art. Explore the various galleries and consider attending any art classes or workshops that might be offered, as the factory is known to host such events.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the sections dedicated to the Ottoman and modern Turkish periods, which offer tangible connections to the nation's founding. The very building, a former cigarette factory, adds another layer of historical context, allowing you to walk through spaces that were once part of Izmir's industrial history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Collections
The Painting and Sculpture Museum is another significant draw, featuring a diverse collection spanning three floors. Visitors can admire works from Turkish artists, including pieces influenced by Impressionist and Cubist movements. While the collection is described as decent, it might lack a singular 'wow' factor for some, but it still offers a valuable insight into the evolution of Turkish art.
Beyond ancient history and fine art, the factory also dedicates space to the Ottoman and modern Turkish periods. Here, you can find unique items that connect you to the founding of the modern Turkish state, such as Mustapha Kemal Atatürk's personal thermos bottle. The displays often focus on the manufacturing processes of the past, offering an interesting and refreshing perspective on historical objects.
The Industrial Heritage: A Factory Reimagined
This transformation from an industrial hub to a center for arts and culture is a testament to Izmir's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing contemporary creativity. The factory complex also includes amenities like a coffee shop and chocolate shop, providing spaces for visitors to relax and reflect amidst the historical surroundings. The open-air cinema further adds to the dynamic nature of the space, hosting events and screenings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit