Gülhane Park

Roses, Tulips and Forget Me Nots 

Gülhane Park was once the outer garden of Topkapı Palace and only for the royal court. Today it is a popular and busy city park, ideal for a leisurely weekend picnic. It is considered one of the oldest public parks in İstanbul.  

The name Gülhane (House of Roses) is a name with no coincidence, because, in spring and summer, more than 80,000 roses bloom here, and thousands of tulips adorn the flower beds. In winter, the park is covered with forget-me-nots. 

Everyone thinks that tulips come from the Dutch. In reality, tulips are native to Türkiye. They were brought to Northern Europe in the 16th century and quickly became very popular. In fact, many cultivated varieties were grown in Türkiye long before they were introduced into European gardens. 

Tulips in particular became an important style of life within the arts, daily life and folklore. The symbol of the Tulip is everywhere from the shape of Turkish Tea Glasses to the inspiration of the design for the IGA İstanbul Grand Airport’s control tower. 

There is also a plethora of mixed colours to choose from. One particular breed from Manisa is called Anemon. And every year in April, İstanbul holds a “Tulip Festival".

Enjoying Tea Alfresco 

From the Set Üstü Çay Bahçesi set on the north-eastern edge of the park, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. 

This upscale tea room is set on a wood-covered terrace with stunning views of the Bosphorus. Sitting on luxurious white sofas over green lawns, you can enjoy the view of the ferries crossing from the Asian part of İstanbul to Europe. From the peninsula where you sit, you overlook the confluence of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. With a view of mainland Europe, enjoy, strong coffees and aromatic Turkish teas. Come here early in the morning for a magnificent sunrise. 

Chronology of Islamic Sciences 

The İstanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam displays scientific instruments used by Islamic scholars between the 9th century CE and the 16th century CE. Located in Gülhane Park, visitors can gain an insight into the technologies that were used in relation to subjects such as geometry, optics, measurements, geography, astronomy, physics, chemistry and more, which are depicted through drawings and contemporary art. So, if your children fancy blowing off a little steam this is the perfect place to pique their curiosity.