In a city filled with treasures, art is a part of Turkish life. The Istanbul Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is the first museum in Turkey devoted to Turkish and Islamic works of art. Located in the Ýbrahim Pasha Palace, the museum houses over 40,000 of Islamic works. The carpet art is the richest collection in the world. The calligraphy art section features Islamic writing art from the 7th through the 20th century. There are also wood, stone, metal and glass art sections. The Istanbul Contemporary Art Museum resides in a vast converted warehouse in the port area of Karakov. With incredible views of the Bosporus and Sea of Marmara and the Topkati Palace, the location is almost as impressive as the art.

On the performing arts scene, the Istanbul Atatürk Cultural Centre showcases the State Opera and Ballet, Istanbul Symphony Orchestra and State Theatre Company. Tickets are a bargain at $3 to $12. The Annual International Istanbul Festival is actually four separate arts festivals with over 50 events each year. The Film Festival brings performing companies from all over Europe. The Biennale Arts Festival features international artists. There are also two music festivals.