Ataturk Cultural Center, Istanbul, Turkey

Ataturk Cultural Center or AKM is Istanbul’s cultural center. It is the focal point of the Taksim Square. It isn’t only an opera house or simply a cultural center, but it is an icon in Istanbul and considered an important example of Turkish architecture. It was originally built in 1946 as an Opera house but later transformed into a cultural center in the 1960's. The center is currently going through a new building construction plan to modernize the iconic landmark. The new center will house theaters, concert halls, cinema halls, convention hall, library, museum, art gallery, exhibition center, cafes, and restaurants. Groundbreaking of the new building started in February 2019.

Visitors from nearby cities like Adalar, Agva, and Sile go to the Ataturk Cultural Center whether a performance is scheduled or not, simply because of its iconic architecture. Istanbul has a lot of landmarks and popular attractions to visit aside from the Ataturk Cultural Center. The TurkuaZoo is a great place to stop by especially if with the entire family with kids. A great place to celebrate the art of Turkey is the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum. Lastly, another wonderful work of architecture can be seen with a visit to the Vefa Kilise Mosque. For longer stays, there are hotels located near the center. Gezi Hotel Bosphorus offers beautiful views and offers posh rooms all in a 5-star rated hotel. Also nearby is the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul. This hotel has a rooftop pall and a total of 3 restaurants. Taxim Hill Hotel offers Bosphorus views from its upscale restaurant and its rooms are all glamorously styled.