I wasn't looking for a firefighting museum in Istanbul, but İBB İtfaiye Müzesi turned out to be a surprisingly interesting piece of the city's history - and admission is free.

I actually got a bit of sensory overload from all the cats. But at the same time, the Cat Museum in Beşiktaş is one of those places in Istanbul where it’s hard not to get carried away. Two floors packed with retro toys, comics, collectibles, and cats from pop culture—and to top it off, admission is completely free.

Hidden among the busy streets near Eminönü is one of Istanbul’s most peaceful museums. Hilye-i Şerif ve Tesbih Müzesi combines exquisite prayer beads, beautiful Islamic calligraphy and a tranquil Ottoman medrese, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into centuries of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Explore the interactive 360° photos at the top of this article and step inside one of the city’s most overlooked museums.

What began as a visit to a little-known cultural centre in Istanbul turned into an unexpected journey through the Turkic world - and a reminder of how much there still is to discover.

Considering Istanbul E-Pass? With one digital pass, you can access many of Istanbul’s most popular attractions and experiences. Here’s how it works and who is likely to get the most value from it.