Gulhane Park in Istanbul is one of the city’s oldest and largest public parks with a long history and a notable tourist attraction in Istanbul, Turkey near to popular tourist attractions, such as Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Museum and Sultanahmet Square. .

Gulhane Park Istanbul

• Recommended visiting time: between 1 to 2 hours
• Entrance to this attraction is free
• Address: Alemdar Mah. Alemdar Cad. Eminonu/Cagaloglu, Fatih, Istanbul 34122, Turkey

Istanbul is one of the favorite destinations for Iranian tourists abroad, and many of our compatriots include Istanbul in their travel plans every year.

However, most tourists only know the famous landmarks and shopping centers of Istanbul and may be unaware of other beautiful spots.

Gulhane Park is the oldest park in this city, and you might not have heard much about it. Stay with us to learn everything you want about Gulhane Park.

Introduction to Gulhane Park

Gulhane Park is one of the most beautiful, vast, and oldest parks in Istanbul. This historic urban park is located adjacent to the grounds of Topkapi Palace.

The southern entrance of the park is one of the palace’s largest gates.

• Take the T1 tram line (Bagcilar-Kabatas) and get off at Gulhane station.
• If you are coming from Taksim, use the Taksim-Kabatas cable car and from there take the tram to Gulhane Park.
• If you are staying in Sultanahmet or Eminonu, you can easily reach Gulhane Park by walking.

History of Gulhane Park

Gulhane Park was formerly the outer garden of Topkapi Palace, accessible only to the royal court members.

In 1912, the outer garden was opened to the public by Istanbul Municipality. Initially, the park included recreational areas, a few coffee houses, and playgrounds.

Later, a small zoo was added. The first statue of Ataturk, created by Heinrich Krippel, was erected in this park in 1926.

In recent years, Gulhane Park has undergone major renovations; the zoo, amusement park, and picnic areas were removed.

Walking paths were improved and a large modern-style pool was built. By removing concrete structures, the park has regained its natural landscape, revealing trees dating back to 1800.

According to history, Gulhane Park symbolized the epic love between the Sultan and his harem. Today, it remains a wonderful place for lovers and young people to enjoy peaceful and beautiful moments.

Activities in Gulhane Park

Gulhane Park is one of Istanbul’s tourist attractions and is especially stunning when covered with flowers. Today, locals go there for picnics, sitting under the beautiful trees and among the exquisite flowers.

From the northeast side of the park at Set Üstü Çay Bahçesi (tea garden), visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara, and the Princes’ Islands.

The park is particularly beautiful during the Istanbul Tulip Festival. The park has a very nice and long walking path that leads to the sea under tall trees, making it ideal for summer strolls.

Fountains and fish ponds are other attractions where visitors can sit and relax. The park is also decorated with lush green lawns and wooden benches.

Some visitors say Gulhane Park is like a small version of New York’s Central Park. Near the seaside at the park’s end, several cafes serve tea and coffee, where you can enjoy the lovely surroundings.

Best Time to Visit Gulhane Park

The park offers a unique charm in every season. In April, storks lay eggs and raise their chicks in nests on the tall plane trees, staying until August.

In spring, the park is filled with blooming flowers tulips, colorful violets, wheat flowers, and many others whose scents fill the air.

Gardeners diligently protect the blossoms until summer arrives. The tall trees provide cool shade during hot summer days.

In summer, nearby kiosks sell snacks, cold drinks, and ice cream, making a visit to Gulhane Park a delightful experience.

Autumn, with its cool weather and unique atmosphere, feels poetic and dreamy, and in winter, the snow-covered landscape of the park becomes a beautiful sight.