Gülhane Park

Set in the area between Sarayburnu, the Alay Pavilion (Alay Köşkü) and Topkapı Palace, Gülhane Park is one of the first parks in Istanbul. It was called Gülhane, “house of roses”, because in Ottoman times it served as the palace’s outer garden, a peaceful garden full of roses. Yet the park’s history goes back much further: it has witnessed many important events and inspired many works.

History of Gülhane Park

The area was already valued in Byzantine times, as the Monastery of Saint George and the holy spring of Panagia Hodegetria stood here. After the conquest of Istanbul it was enclosed by walls and became the setting for many events and festivals. It served as the palace’s outer garden; the Tanzimat Edict was read out here; Mustafa Kemal introduced the Latin alphabet here and was given the title of Head Teacher (Başöğretmen) here; Nazım Hikmet wrote a poem about one of its walnut trees; and much more happened in Gülhane Park.

Today, after the latest renovation in 2003, the park has become a place both to catch your breath and to take a closer look at history. It may be one of the best places in Istanbul to read on the grass listening to the birds on a sunny day, escape the crowds, rest under centuries-old plane trees, walk up to Sarayburnu and lose yourself in the view of the Bosphorus, or sit for hours at the Setüstü Tea Garden drinking tea from the samovar facing the strait.

Setüstü Tea Garden Prices

For the park’s regulars, the Setüstü Tea Garden is a must. Many first-time visitors, though, may wonder about the prices because of the view. So here is a short note on prices to give you an idea;

Where Is Gülhane Park?

The park is in the Cankurtaran neighbourhood of the Fatih district of Istanbul. As mentioned at the start, it covers a large area of 163 dönüms (about 16 hectares) between Sarayburnu, the Alay Pavilion and Topkapı Palace. Its central location makes it very easy to reach.

How to Get to Gülhane Park

To get to Gülhane Park by tram, get off at the Gülhane stop of the Kabataş–Bağcılar tram line; the park is a very short walk away. By Marmaray, ride to Sirkeci and from there walk 5–10 minutes or take the tram one stop to the park. Or you can come to Eminönü or Karaköy by ferry or bus and change to the tram there. If you are coming by car and do not know the area, it is best to leave your car in the large car park in Sirkeci. Finding a seat in the tea garden at weekends is very hard, though. If you want to enjoy the view to the full, it is worth going on a weekday.