Visit this central park to take leisurely strolls through rose gardens, visit visit museums and a sultan’s palace and enjoy views of the Bosphorus Strait.

Gülhane Park is a public park situated in Istanbul’s Old City, overlooking the Bosphorus Strait and Marmara Sea. Originally the outer garden of Topkapi Palace, the park opened as a public recreation space in 1912. Its name means Rosehouse Park and it was designed as a large rose garden. You can also come here to enjoy sea views from its traditional tea garden, take a tour of a sultan’s palace and explore museums.

Escape the busy city streets and unwind in the shade of the park’s large plane trees, some of which date back to the 1800s. Stroll along the wide paths to see the colorful roses and ornamental water features. Keep an eye out for statues, including one of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Turkish Republic. Look up at the column erected to commemorate a Roman victory over the Goths.

Bring a picnic and relax on the park’s lawns or buy drinks and snacks from the various kiosks. Alternatively, go to the park’s northeastern side to find a tea garden and café. Order a pot of tea or coffee and take in the uninterrupted view of the Bosphorus Strait and Marmara Sea.

While here, be sure to visit Topkapi Palace, a former sultan’s residence built between 1459 and 1478. Walk through the palace’s courtyards to see jewelry and ceremonial robes, armory and ceramics that epitomize the opulence of the Ottoman Empire. The palace has a harem and other preserved examples of the extravagant lifestyle of the sultans. Check the palace’s official website for details of opening times and tour prices.

Aspiring inventors will appreciate the educational exhibits at the Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam. Find reconstructions of historical Islamic instruments, such as a water-powered clock and a device used for the distillation of rosewater. The museum is open from Wednesday to Monday and there is a small admission fee.

Located on the Eminönü peninsula, Gülhane Park is a short walk from Istanbul’s historical center. Public transport, such as buses and trams, stop close to the park’s entrance.

Plan a trip to see Gülhane Park

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Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class

Sultanahmet

per person

Apr. 1 - Apr. 5

found 2 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Toronto (YTO) to Istanbul (IST)

9/10 Wonderful! (1,829 reviews)

We enjoyed our 4-night stay at Hotel Sultanhan while exploring Istanbul. The location is perfect, an easy walk to the major tourist sites (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern), and just around the corner from the Cemberlitas metro stop that provides convenient access to other parts of Sultanahmet and Karaköy. (It rained for our entire visit, so we took the metro multiple times every day—you can either tap a MasterCard or purchase a fare card for a slight discount. It’s less than $1 USD per ride and the trains come every 5 minutes. The system is very easy to navigate with GoogleMaps). The breakfast spread was extensive and the view, even through the rain, was amazing. Staff were friendly, attentive, and helpful. We were initially in room 407, which was only OK. It was not as luxurious as the pictures had led me to believe. It also ran quite hot and had a slight musty smell. We were moved to a 5th floor room with a balcony that was much more comfortable, though still a little warm and the walls were a bit thin. One of the two elevators was also out of service during our visit. Our only other complaint was that the self-use spa was not worth it. For $45, we basically got to use the sauna for an hour. Perhaps it’s worth it to pay extra for the full-service hammam instead. Overall, we were very happy with this hotel for the price ($65 USD/night through Expedia felt like a steal). It was a great home base for exploring Istanbul.

Reviewed on Jan. 25, 2025

Bricks Hotel Istanbul

Bahcelievler

Save 100% on your flight

per person

Mar. 17 - Mar. 22

found 12 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Vancouver (YVR) to Istanbul (IST)

8.6/10 Excellent! (610 reviews)

The check-in process was seamless and efficient. The staff were incredibly kind, courteous, and attentive. The property itself was spotless and had a cozy atmosphere. Despite its location near the highway, the room was impressively quiet. The rooms were spacious and impeccably clean, offering a comfortable stay. The hotel is conveniently surrounded by a great selection of local restaurants and shopping options. The breakfast was outstanding, with a wide variety of choices and a chef preparing fresh omelets to your preferences. Overall, the experience exceeded expectations and left a lasting impression.

Reviewed on Jan. 5, 2025

Armagrandi Spina Hotel - Special Class

Sultanahmet

per person

Apr. 10 - Apr. 16

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Toronto (YTO) to Istanbul (IST)

8.4/10 Very Good! (87 reviews)

This is a solid 3 star hotel. The room was recently remodeled and clean. The walls are thin, can hear traffic and other guests. There is only shampoo in the shower, no soap or conditioner. Free large bottle of water. If you are expecting a 4 or 5 star hotel, this isn't for you. We were very happy for a 3 star hotel that was clean and a 3-15 minute walk to a lot of sites. The staff was very friendly.

Reviewed on Jan. 13, 2025

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