Where is Gülhane Park in Istanbul? (History + Attractions + Entrance Fee)

Gülhane Park in Istanbul is not just a green space; it symbolizes the city's glorious history and reflects its dynamic life. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a traveller seeking tranquillity, Gülhane Park will offer you an unforgettable experience. Keep reading this article to learn more about the history of Gülhane Park and its attractions.

Exploring the History of Gülhane Park

Gulhane Park has a long history dating back to the early 19th century and is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Istanbul. Familiarizing yourself with its background before visiting will enhance your experience, making your walk through the park even more enjoyable and immersive.

Gülhane Park was not always a public park. In the past, the royal garden of Topkapı Palace served as the Ottoman Empire's administrative centre for 380 years. The garden was filled with vast areas of rose flowers, which is how the park got its name—"Gülhane" (meaning "House of Roses" in Turkish).

Locals also refer to Gülhane Park as "Sarayburnu Park." In 1912, Cemil Pasha, the historical mayor of Istanbul, renovated this garden and transformed it into a public park. However, this was not the only time the park underwent restoration. In 2003, the Istanbul Municipality again restored Gülhane Park, as it had fallen into a state of neglect.

Today, Gülhane Park is in its most beautiful and well-maintained state, attracting locals and tourists with its charm.

Where is Gülhane Park in Istanbul?

Gülhane Park is located on the European side of Istanbul, in the Fatih district, between the neighbourhoods of Sirkeci and Sultanahmet. The park has multiple sections, and at the entrance, you can see statues of all the mayors of Istanbul before and after the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. Additionally, Gülhane Park is situated near the Bosphorus Strait, and from its northern and eastern sections, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the sea.

Attractions of Gülhane Park in Istanbul

In Gülhane Park, you can walk among ancient trees and enjoy the stunning view of the Bosphorus Strait. Additionally, you can visit the parks' museums, read in the Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar Literature Library, or enjoy a drink at one of the cafés. Below, you will learn more about the attractions of Gülhane Park.Istanbul Archaeological Museums

The Istanbul Archaeological Museums are located right next to Gülhane Park. This valuable complex is visible from the park's entrance. These museums are one of the largest cultural hubs in Turkey, and you can explore the country's history inside them.

This complex has three main sections: the Archaeology Museum, the Çinili Pavilion (Tiled Kiosk), and the Museum of the Ancient Orient. This trio of museums is considered one of the largest museums in the world and contains more than one million historical artifacts. Entry to these museums is not free; you must pay an admission fee.

·        Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar Literature Library and Museum

The Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar Literature Library and Museum was inaugurated on November 12, 2011, at the entrance of Gülhane Park on the left side. This library museum, which offers free admission, not only showcases the works of Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar but also provides a serene atmosphere where visitors can sit, admire the beautiful view of the trees, and read their favourite books.

This library houses over 9,000 works by more than 1,000 authors, and all visitors can freely access these books and magazines within the library's reading space.

·        Topkapı Palace Museum

The Topkapı Palace Museum is not located directly inside Gülhane Park but is situated nearby. During the Ottoman era, Gülhane Park served as the garden of Topkapı Palace, and only members of the royal court were allowed entry. It can be said that these two sites form a historical complex that was once interconnected.

In the past, flowers were cultivated in Gülhane Park for Topkapı Palace, and Ottoman sultans and rulers would stroll and relax in this royal garden. Tourists visiting Gülhane Park and Topkapı Palace Museum can journey through Ottoman history and enjoy a unique experience. Admission to the palace requires a fee.

·        Gülhane Park Tulip Festival

The Tulip Festival is held annually in spring at Gülhane Park. This festival revives the Ottoman-era tradition of tulip cultivation, and every year, the Istanbul Municipality plants thousands of tulips, creating a colourful and breathtaking landscape. (During the Ottoman period, tulip cultivation was considered an art and a valuable trade.)

The tulips are planted in various patterns and colours, and their beautiful designs attract tourists. We highly recommend attending the Tulip Festival if you visit Istanbul in spring.

·        The Green Landscape of Gülhane Park, Istanbul

With its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, Gülhane Park is ideal for peaceful walks, picnics under the trees, and enjoying nature. This park serves as a haven for nature lovers, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. Whenever you feel overwhelmed by the city's noise, you can visit this beautiful park and enjoy the tranquillity.

In addition to its pristine natural beauty, the park also boasts several historical attractions, including the Gothic Column—a marble column erected in the 3rd century AD as a monument commemorating the victory of Roman emperors over the Gothic tribes.

The Romantic Meeting of a Turkish Poet in Gülhane Park

It is said that Nâzım Hikmet, the famous Turkish poet, wrote the poem "Walnut Tree" in Gülhane Park. After escaping from prison, he met his beloved, Piraye, in the park, and at that very moment, police officers arrived to arrest him. Below, you can read the translated version of the poem "Walnut Tree" in Persian:

I am a walnut tree in Gülhane Park
My branches sway with the wind
My leaves shine like the moon
But you do not know, you do not know that I am a walnut tree!

I am a walnut tree in Gülhane Park
My roots have sunk into the earth
My branches have spread into the sky
But you are in a hurry, you have no time to see me...

You do not know that I am standing here
The police are searching for me
But I, calm and silent,
Am a tree standing in this park...

How to Get to Gülhane Park in Istanbul?

Gülhane Park is located in Istanbul's historic district. The following section will outline multiple ways to get there.

•  Access to Gülhane Park by Public Transport

To reach Gülhane Park using public transportation, you can take city buses, the T1 tram line, or passenger ferries. Depending on your location, you can take a bus to Sirkeci or Eminönü and then walk a short distance to this beautiful park.

You can also quickly get to Gülhane Park via the Marmaray metro line. Board the Marmaray metro, get off at Sirkeci station, and after a 5 to 10-minute walk, you will arrive at Gülhane Park in Istanbul.

On the Asian side of Istanbul, you can take a passenger ferry and enjoy the stunning view of the Bosphorus Strait and the sea while travelling to Eminönü. From there, you can take the T1 tram line and reach the park with a short walk. To use public transportation in Istanbul, you must have an Istanbul Card and be familiar with its different types.

• Access to Gülhane Park by Renting a Car in Istanbul

If you want to explore Gülhane Park and other historical landmarks of Istanbul and prefer the most comfortable transportation option, renting a car in Istanbul will be the best.

By renting a car through GoToSafar, you can quickly and comfortably reach Gülhane Park and then freely travel to any part of Istanbul or other cities in Turkey. You can pick up the rental car from the nearest location to your accommodation, ensuring a hassle-free transportation experience in Istanbul.

How Much is the Entrance Fee for Gülhane Park in Istanbul?

Entrance to Gülhane Park is completely free, and you can visit this park, which is rich in historical and natural beauty, without paying any fee. Gülhane Park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week, allowing visitors to enjoy a walk and admire the historical landmarks surrounding it at any time.