The Emirgan Park (Emirgan Grove or Woods) is situated in the pretty Emirgan neighborhood by the Bosphorus shores and covers an area of 325,000 square meters. Once the private place of the Egyptian Khedive Ismail Pasa, and after being a present from the Ottoman Sultan Murad IV to an Iranian noble-man Emir Gun, today the park serves as a very beautiful public garden for both Istanbul locals and tourists.

Istanbul’s Floral Haven

Emirgan Park, a verdant oasis nestled in the heart of Istanbul, stands as a breathtaking testament to the city’s natural beauty. Particularly enchanting during the Tulip Festival in  every April, the park transforms into a visual spectacle adorned with vibrant tulips, daffodils, and an array of blossoms surrounding its expansive pond, pools, and scenic walkways.

The park’s large pond, gracefully traversed by ducks and birds, becomes a focal point during the festival, complemented by cascading waterfalls and pathways adorned with tulips. Emirgan Park offers visitors a visual feast, a harmonious blend of nature’s wonders and meticulously designed landscapes.

For those seeking a peaceful escape or a delightful picnic, Emirgan Park provides numerous areas, complete with wooden picnic tables. While weekends might witness a lively atmosphere, the upper regions of the park offer serene corners overlooking the Bosphorus, allowing visitors to relish a quiet moment.

Three historic mansions – Sarı Köşk (Yellow Pavilion), Beyaz Köşk (White Pavilion), and Pembe Köşk (Pink Pavilion) – constructed in 1878 by Egypt’s Khedive Ismail Pasha, stand proudly within the park. Managed by Beltur, these mansions serve as restaurants during the Tulip Festival and host private events and gatherings at other times.

What’s Inside – Activities

You can have a wonderful breakfast during the weekdays or open buffet at the weekends at the cafes of the Emirgan Grove. Many locals flock to the grove especially at the sunny Istanbul weekends. Or you can have a nice rest, stroll along the beautiful gardens of the park and enjoy the beautiful views of the park in the company of the Bosphorus scenery.

As you step into Emirgan Park, a rich tapestry of flora unfolds. The park boasts a diverse range of trees, including pine, umbrella pine, cypress, fir, willow, and lime trees. Each variety contributes to the lush greenery, creating a soothing and refreshing atmosphere.

Tranquil Waterscape:

A highlight of the park is a beautiful lake that adds a touch of serenity to the vibrant surroundings. This picturesque water feature enhances the overall charm of Emirgan Park, providing a tranquil escape for visitors seeking a peaceful respite.

Scenic Vistas from Terraces:

Elevated terraces within the park offer breathtaking views of the iconic Bosphorus. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll or simply taking in the beauty of nature, these vantage points provide a stunning backdrop of Istanbul’s majestic waters.

Active Pursuits:

For those inclined towards a more active visit, Emirgan Park offers jogging and walking tracks. Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings while engaging in a healthy and invigorating exercise routine.

Playful Moments for Kids:

Families with children will find delight in the dedicated kids’ playgrounds. These areas are designed to cater to the energetic spirits of young ones, offering a safe and enjoyable space for play.

Capture the Memories:

The park is adorned with excellent photo-taking points, inviting visitors to capture the beauty of the surroundings. Whether it’s the vibrant blooms, the serene lake, or the historic structures, the Park provides a myriad of opportunities for memorable snapshots.

Picnic Bliss:

Emirgan Park unfolds as an ideal spot for picnics. With designated areas equipped with facilities like wooden tables, visitors can relish a leisurely picnic amidst the natural splendor.

Historic Ambiance:

Adding a touch of historical charm, three restaurants and cafes find their home within 19th-century mansions and pavilions. These lively establishments, managed by Beltur, not only cater to culinary desires but also offer a unique dining experience surrounded by architectural heritage.

Eating Out

Within Emirgan Park, two buffets operated by Beltur offer a more budget-friendly dining option. These establishments provide essential refreshments like tea, coffee, water, and sandwiches, catering to the culinary needs of visitors exploring this green haven.

Whether you’re captivated by the floral abundance, seeking a tranquil picnic spot, or intrigued by historic charm, the Park promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the allure of Istanbul’s natural wonders at this enchanting destination.

Istanbul Tulip Festival (annual, last 3 weeks of April)

Tulips are very important for the Ottoman Empire and Turkish culture. And to celebrate both spring and this fact, this annual festival takes place at the city’s most famous parks, such as the Gulhane Park in Sirkeci, Sultanahmet Square in Sultanahmet, Yildiz Park in Besiktas, Emirgan Park in Emirgan in the European side, and Fethi Pasa Grove and Camlica Hill in Uskudar, Cubuklu Hidiv Grove in Cubuklu and Beykoz Park in Beykoz in the Asian side.

This is a free festival and visitors may enjoy billions of tulips in 120 different types that blossoms in April, as well as several culture and art activities that are organized in the Emirgan Park and Sultanahmet Square. There is also a tulip photo contest and the winners are awarded.

Visiting Hours & Admissions

Opening Hours

Emirgan Park is open to public every day of the week.

Admission

Entrance to Emirgan Park is free of charge.

How to Get to Emirgan Park

Location

You’ll find the Emirgan Park & Grove just on the Bosphorus shore in the Emirgan neighborhood of the Sariyer district. See the location map.

Transportation

Public Bus

The most practical way to get to Emirgan Park & Grove is via Municipal Public Bus. operating through the Bosphorus shores through Emirgan and Sariyer. Hop off at the Cinaralti bus stop. Some of the lines include;

• Line 40, 40T and 42T from Taksim
• Line 22, 22RE and 25E from Kabatas (accessible by Bagcilar-Kabatas tram T1 line)
• Line 40B from Besiktas
• Line EL2 (Emirgân – 4. Levent Metro Ring (Subway))
• Line 59RH (Rumeli Hisarüstü – İstinye/Hacıosman Metro Station) (accessible by Yenikapi-Taksim-Haciosman M2 Metro line)

* Check Municipal public bus routes and timetables from iett.istanbul (just type the location on the search bar and it will show the bus lines with routes and stops)

Public Ferry

You can take Public Ferry Bosphorus line operating between Eminonu-Rumeli Kavagi and hop off at Emirgan pier. (Eminonu, Besiktas, Arnavutkoy, Bebek, Emirgan, Istinye, Buyukdere, Sariyer, Rumeli Kavagi stops)

Seabus from Besiktas and Kadikoy to Istinye.

* Check Public ferry lines routes and timetables from en.sehirhatlari.istanbul

Hop On & Hop Off Bosphorus Tour

You can take the Dentur Avrasya boats departing from Kabatas and following the route Besiktas, Emirgan, Kucuksu Pavilion, Beylerbeyi Palace respectively and returning back to Kabatas, the starting point. You can join the tour by taking one way tickets (sold only in Emirgan, Beylerbeyi and Kucuksu docks) from the docks.

* Check timetables from denturavrasya.com