10 Best Places for Picnics in Istanbul
The gardens and forests of Istanbul are one of the best places for tourism in Istanbul, it has many spectacular parks that are worth a visit that is suitable for children and families, and which are considered an attraction for tourists as well as for the citizens of Istanbul, due to its beauty, charm and high-end services, whether in European and Asian Istanbul.
This article will illustrate the 10 Best Places for Picnics in Istanbul.
Yildiz Park
Yildiz Park was a small forest in the Byzantine era called the “Ghar Forest”, and remained so until the Ottoman era when it turned into a hunting ground for the Ottoman sultans.
But after Sultan Abdul Majid II built the Yildiz Palace, this small forest turned into a front garden for the palace through which the guests of the Ottoman Empire and important personalities were received.
During the reign of the Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, extensive reforms were made to the garden, under the supervision of architects, farmers, and agricultural experts. They added wonderful touches to the garden, bringing water fountains, creating artificial rivers and creating a lake inside the garden, and planting new types of trees and flowers.
Yıldız Park at that time was for the residents of Yıldız Palace only from the Ottoman sultans and their families, and it was enclosed by a large wall surrounding it, but now it has turned into a public park that you can visit at any time you want. It’s a perfect place for a picnic in Istanbul.
Belgrade Forest
Visitors to the Belgrade Forest in Istanbul enjoy hiking with family and friends, where they can enjoy many activities, including walking and jogging, as well as cycling and wandering among the green spaces and fresh, fresh air.
The Istanbul Belgrade Forest also includes many water lakes in which many types of birds such as ducks and geese are inhabited, and where it is possible to rent small boats for tours that visitors enjoy.
There is a range of cafes and restaurants that provide beautiful seating and serve a variety of meals amid the natural scenes in the garden.
Fenerbahce Park
Fenerbahce Park is located on the Fenerbahce Peninsula in Kadikoy and the park is very popular among locals in Istanbul with its beautiful open and closed areas.
The park overlooks the famous Princesses Islands. Plants have been renovated, and jogging paths, rest spots, picnic areas, and a private dog park have been added. A car park and sports areas were also built. At the edge of the park, you will be able to enjoy the panoramic views.
Emirgan Park
Tranquil and recreation enthusiasts are looking forward to finding a place that blends the features of nature and presents it in the best way, and this is really what Emirgan Istanbul offers, as it is one of the most beautiful gardens in Istanbul and the most attractive tourist destinations in Istanbul.
From its privileged location overlooking the Bosphorus and its green spaces extending over about 470,000 square meters, interesting activities and surprises await you. Be prepared to spend an unmissable tour with the family, as this park is ranked among the best tourist places in Istanbul.
Camlica Hill
Camlica Hill is located within the boundaries of the Uskudar district, on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, near the first suspension bridge. Camlica, the place with hills overlooking the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara, is one of the favorite parks in Istanbul, and also one of the highest and most charming places in the city where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the picturesque city of Istanbul. Camlica Hill is one of the best places for picnics in Istanbul.
Aydos Forest
Aydos forests are ranked globally as one of the largest and greenest forests in Europe, as well as being at the highest mountain point in Istanbul. Aydos Forests are an ideal place in the heart of Istanbul away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Aydos forests in Istanbul attract tourists and locals to spend the day in this forest, which is full of fresh air and breathtaking nature. Water ponds inside the forest to see the natural charm of this place, in addition to the presence of yards dedicated to preparing food and barbecue, and the presence of many restaurants in them.
Nezahat Gokyigit Botanic Garden
This park looks like an oasis in the middle of the desert, as it is located in the Atasehir district which is full of high-rise buildings.
This park consists of 8 islands between highways and connected roads and includes Central Island, Ertugrul Island, Promenade Island, Istanbul Island, Mashtal Island, Oak Island, Anatolia Island, and Thrace.
Florya Park
Florya Park in Istanbul is intended by many residents of the city, in addition to its external visitors, so that the person spends a fun and quiet time in front of the beautiful landscapes and the successive sea waves. If you are looking for a place to have picnics in Istanbul with your family, then Florya Park is a perfect choice.
Gulhane Park
It is one of the most beautiful gardens to have picnics in Istanbul due to the importance of its location in Sultanahmet Square, where there are many tourist attractions in Istanbul.
Gulhane Istanbul Park is the oldest of Turkey’s gardens. It was opened to visitors in 1912, while it was previously affiliated with the outer garden of the famous Topkapi Palace, and until now it is still connected to the palace.
Distributed everywhere in the garden are many places to sit and children’s games, and the shades of trees provide visitors to the garden with wonderful sessions in the lap of nature for relaxation and meditation. There are also statues of the most prominent Turkish personalities.
Grove Beykoz Park
The garden is considered one of the best orchards and gardens in Istanbul. The park dates back to the era of Sultan Abdul Hamid II and is characterized by the presence of the best colorful and distinctive flowers and roses.
Free space has been allocated for exercising. There are stationary treadmills to burn fat, bikes for slimming and muscle strengthening, and walking paths to maintain heart health and stimulate blood circulation.
A space has also been allocated for restaurants and rest areas, and various traditional Turkish cuisine, seasonal fruits, and various drinks are available.