Discovering the Green Spaces of Istanbul: Your Guide to Maçka, Yıldız, Emirgan Parks and Beyond

Park of Maçka

Maçka Park, a beloved oasis in the heart of Istanbul, offers lush greenery amidst the urban landscape. This park is home to a variety of trees such as Linden, Chestnut, Oak, Sycamore, Ash, Alder, and Walnut, creating a dense canopy. It features walkways that guide visitors to amenities like kids’ play areas, beautifully manicured gardens, grassy expanses, and tranquil ponds, complemented by workout stations.

Star Park

Nestled in the Beşiktaş area, Yıldız Park stands as a vast and stunning green space in Istanbul, well-liked by both residents and visitors. Formerly a hunting area exclusively for the sultan and a section of the Yıldız Palace estate, this park features a diverse array of plant and animal life, a crafted lake, several constructed ponds, and a facility for producing porcelain.

Park of Emirgan

Located 18 kilometers north of Istanbul’s center along the European side of the Bosphorus shoreline, Emirgan Park is famous for its forested areas, well-designed gardens, and the annual Istanbul Tulip Festival each April. This park encompasses an area of 325,000 square meters and features structures such as pavilions, a substantial lake, areas for picnicking, children’s play areas, and scenic views of the Bosphorus.

Fatih Park on Otağtepe

Situated 27 kilometers northeast of Istanbul, Otağtepe-Fatih Park provides breathtaking views of the Bosphorus from its location on the Asian side. Close to the Fatih Mehmet Sultan Bridge, the park is equipped with walking paths, ponds, and lush groves of trees, although it lacks amenities for coffee shops or picnic areas.

Gülhane Park

Gülhane Park, the most ancient park in Istanbul, situated adjacent to Topkapi Palace, blossoms with roses and tulips during the spring and summer seasons, earning the nickname “House of Roses.” This park is home to historic structures such as the old Imperial Stables, which have been transformed into the Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam.

Nakkaştepe National Reserve

Situated in the Uskudar district, Nakkaştepe National Park provides a spectacular panorama of the Bosphorus Strait. Spanning over 50,000 square meters, the park features amenities like picnic spots, an adventure course, a viewing platform, a tennis court, a natural pool, and various other conveniences, making it perfect for a peaceful day out with loved ones.

Park of Sarachane

Adjacent to Shahzadeh Mosque, Sarachane Garden offers a verdant park complete with tree-shaded areas, water features, a children’s play area, and scenic vistas of the ancient Roman aqueduct, making it an ideal spot for families to unwind, engage in reading, and appreciate the outdoors.

Belgrade Woods

Spanning 55,000 hectares, the Belgrad Forest is a conserved forest area situated in the Sariyer district of northwest Istanbul. This lush sanctuary is perfect for activities such as hiking, taking strolls through nature, mountain biking, and enjoying picnics or barbecues. There are numerous picnic areas nestled among the oak, beech, and chestnut trees.