Introduction
Istanbul, a city of over 16 million people, is a sprawling metropolis where the relentless march of urban development has left much of the landscape dominated by concrete. Districts like Şişli, Beyoğlu, and Kadıköy typify this urban density, offering limited access to green spaces amidst their bustling streets. However, the city is not without its natural retreats. Along the Bosphorus, breathtaking parks provide a welcome escape, while the outskirts, including the lush Belgrade Forest, still preserve pockets of greenery. In this post, we’ll guide you through some of Istanbul’s most beautiful parks—places where you can trade the urban chaos for tranquility and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re seeking panoramic views, peaceful strolls, or lively picnic spots, these green havens offer something for everyone.
Best Parks in Istanbul
Let’s take a look at the best parks in Istanbul, including Emirgan Park, Istanbul Kent Ormanı, Bebek Park, and others located on the Asian side of Istanbul that we recommend.
Emirgan Park
Emirgan Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Istanbul. It’s so beautiful that if you’re not careful, you might just forget that you’re still in Istanbul! This park is known for its vibrant tulips that bloom in the spring and its breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
Emirgan Park is a great place to take a romantic stroll, have a picnic, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. Just be sure to bring your camera, because you’re going to want to snap a lot of pictures.
Ataturk Urban Forest
Ataturk Urban Forest or Istanbul Kent Ormanı in Turkish, also known as the Istanbul City Forest, is one of the largest urban forests in the world. It’s so big that if you get lost, you might never find your way out.
This forest covers an area of 2,700 hectares and features walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and a real opportunity for bird-watching. Just be sure to bring your sense of adventure, because you’re going to need it.
Bebek Park
Bebek Park is a small but charming park located in the Bebek neighborhood of Istanbul. It’s so charming that you might never want to leave. The park is known for its stunning views of the Bosphorus and its peaceful atmosphere.
It’s a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or just sit and enjoy the view. Just be sure to bring your appetite, because you’re going to want to try all the delicious food at the nearby restaurants.
Fethi Pasa Korusu
Fethi Pasa Korusu is a beautiful park located in Üsküdar on the Asian side of Istanbul. The park is known for its stunning views of the Bosphorus and its historic mansions. It features walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground for children.
Yildiz Park
Yıldız Park is a large, lush green space in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul — so expansive, you might need a map to navigate it. Once part of the outer gardens of Yıldız Palace, the park served as royal hunting grounds and a retreat for Ottoman sultans, especially during the reign of Sultan Abdulhamid II. Today, it’s open to the public and features walking paths, picnic spots, and a range of activities like horseback riding, tennis, and basketball. It’s a perfect place to unwind in nature — or bring your competitive spirit and challenge your friends to a game.
Just be sure to bring your competitive spirit, because you’re going to want to challenge your friends to a game of basketball or tennis.
Maçka Park
Maçka Park is another beautiful park located in the heart of Istanbul, in the Beşiktaş district. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, as it offers a serene oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The park covers an area of 47 acres and features walking paths, picnic areas, and a small pond with ducks and swans. It also offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Istanbul skyline. Maçka Park is a great place to take a break from the city and enjoy a peaceful stroll, have a picnic, or just relax and soak up the natural beauty of Istanbul. The park also hosts various events and concerts throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere.
Address: Harbiye, Maçka Cd., 34367 Şişli/İstanbul
Moda Park
This one is our absolute favorite and we go there all the time! Moda Park is located on the Asian side of Istanbul in the Kadıköy district, is another beautiful park that offers a peaceful escape from the city. The park covers a big area by the water and features lush greenery, tennis and basketball courts, and even a playground for dogs! It is a popular spot for hipsters, joggers, and picnickers and you can comfortably bring your beer or wine and enjoy yourself for hours.
Moda Park is also known for its stunning views of the Sea of Marmara and the Princes’ Islands. The park’s location near the bustling Moda neighborhood also makes it a great spot to grab a bite to eat or explore the local shops and cafes. With its serene atmosphere and picturesque views, Moda Parkı is a must-visit for anyone looking for a relaxing day in Istanbul.
Address: Caferağa, Küçükmoda Burnu Sk No:21, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Fenerbahçe Park
Arguably the very best park in Istanbul and she is a beautiful seaside park located on the Asian side of Istanbul in the Kadıköy district. The park covers an area of 420,000 square meters and features walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and a range of activities such as basketball and tennis courts. One of the park’s main attractions is its stunning views of the Sea of Marmara and the Princes’ Islands.
Address: Fenerbahçe, Fener Kalamış Yolu, 34726 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Conclusion
Istanbul is a city that has a lot to offer in terms of parks and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or an exciting place to go on an adventure, these parks are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
