An unforgettable adventure in Istanbul's zoos, aquariums and water parks

Looking for an extraordinary entertainment experience in the heart of charming Istanbul? Beyond the historic mosques and markets, the city invites you to an unparalleled adventure among wildlife and marine life, and to enjoy refreshing times at its largest water parks.

 Get ready and join us on a journey to discover the most amazing entertainment destinations that will captivate both adults and children.

1. Faruk Yalçın Zoo (Darıca Zoo): A Natural Paradise on the Outskirts of Istanbul

Imagine yourself in a green forest, meeting over 200 animal species, from majestic tigers to graceful giraffes. This is Faruk Yalçın Zoo, a vast nature reserve waiting for you to discover a world of wildlife and botany.

• Address: Piri Reis, Tuzla Cd. No:297, 41700 Darıca/Kocaeli, Türkiye.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

• How to Get There:

• By Car: Easily accessible via the E-5 or TEM highways, with paid parking available.

• By Public Transport: Take the Marmaray train to Osmangazi station, where a complimentary shuttle bus service will take you directly to the zoo's entrance.

• Ticket Prices: Prices vary for adults, children, and students. It is recommended to check the official website for the latest prices.

• Facilities & Services:

• A vast botanical garden with 500 plant species.

• Rest areas, restaurants, and cafeterias for food and drinks.

• Special facilities for visitors with disabilities, including ramps and wheelchairs.

2. Istanbul Aquarium: A Deep Dive into the Ocean's Depths

Imagine walking through a glass tunnel with sharks swimming overhead and thousands of colorful marine creatures surrounding you. This is not a dream; it's the reality at Istanbul Aquarium! It's not just a fish tank, but a journey through the oceans from the Black Sea to the Pacifi.

• Address: Şenlikköy, Yeşilköy Halkalı Cd. No:93, 34153 Florya/İstanbul, Türkiye.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• How to Get There:

• By Car: Easy to reach with ample parking.

• By Public Transport: The easiest way is to use the Marmaray train to Florya Akvaryum station, which is just a few steps away.

• Ticket Prices: Adult tickets start from around 650 Turkish Lira. You can book your ticket online to save time.

• Facilities & Services:

• Home to over 17,000 marine and land creatures, with a 270-degree panoramic underwater tunnel.

• An authentic rainforest zone and diving facilities with sharks.

• Restaurants and cafes with sea views, and a souvenir shop.

3. Emaar Aquarium: An Aquatic World in the Heart of Luxury Shopping

You don't need to leave the city to enjoy the marine world! Emaar Aquarium offers you this unique experience inside one of Istanbul's most luxurious shopping malls, combining the pleasure of shopping with an aquatic adventure.

• Address: Ünalan, Libadiye Cd. No:88, 34700 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye, located inside Emaar Square Mall.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 9:15 PM.

• How to Get There:

• By Public Transport: You can access it via Metro line M4 (Kadıköy-Tavşantepe) to the Göztepe station, or by Metrobus to the Uzunçayır station, from where you can take a bus or taxi.

• Ticket Prices: Adult tickets start from around 450 Turkish Lira.

• Facilities & Services:

• Features a variety of marine animals like crocodiles and penguins.

• A glass viewing tunnel and interactive facilities.

• Access to all the mall's luxury facilities, including restaurants, cafes, and cinemas.

4. Marina Aquapark Waterland: A Haven of Water Fun

If you're looking for an exhilarating and refreshing dose of fun on a hot summer day, this water park is your perfect destination. Thrilling slides, refreshing pools, and a festive atmosphere await you.

• Address: Cami, Balıkçılar Sk. No:20, 34940 Tuzla/İstanbul, Türkiye.

• Opening Hours: Open during the summer season, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• How to Get There:

• By Public Transport: Take the Marmaray train to Tuzla station, from where you can easily reach the park by minibus or public bus.

• Ticket Prices: Prices vary depending on the day (weekdays or holidays), approximately ranging from 550 to 650 Turkish Lira.

• Facilities & Services:

• A wide variety of water slides, and a wave pool.

• Dedicated areas for children and refreshing pools.

• Restaurants and cafes, and a locker service to store your belongings.