Parks, squares and seafront in the Historic Peninsula: places to breathe with children
Open spaces between museums and mosques, where children can run and play and adults can sit with a glass of tea, are as important a part of a Historic Peninsula trip as the museums. The century-old trees of Gülhane Park, the Bosphorus view from Seraglio Point, the anglers of the Galata Bridge and the seaside parks of Kennedy Avenue on the Marmara shore are on this page.
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Places with children’s playgrounds
There are children’s playgrounds in Gülhane Park and in the seaside parks along Kennedy Avenue. From our hotels around Sareban and Little Hagia Sophia, the seaside park is a few minutes’ walk away. For more ideas, see our guide to things to do with kids in Sultanahmet.
Frequently asked questions
Which park is closest to Sultanahmet?
Gülhane Park is right next to Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace, about 5–10 minutes’ walk from Sultanahmet Square. Sultanahmet Park, between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, is also a good place to sit and rest.
When do the tulips bloom in Gülhane Park?
As part of the Istanbul Tulip Festival, the tulips in Gülhane Park are usually at their best in April, in the first half of the month depending on the weather.
Is there a seaside walkway in the Historic Peninsula?
Yes. Along Kennedy Avenue, seaside parks with walking and cycling paths, tea gardens and playgrounds follow the Marmara shore from Seraglio Point to Yenikapı and Yedikule.