Atatürk Airport Nation’s Garden

A Green Oasis and a Gift to Istanbul’s Residents and Visitors,The People’s Garden at Atatürk Airport stands as one of the largest green projects in Istanbul.

 It was designed to be a wide, open space that goes beyond recreation, bringing together natural scenery, walking paths, and family-friendly activity areas, offering the city a vibrant and refreshing outdoor environment.

Background and the Phased Opening

The garden was not opened in a single year; instead, it was developed through several consecutive stages:

• First Stage (2019): Work began after commercial flights at Atatürk Airport were stopped, and the land was prepared for its new purpose.
  
  

• Second Stage (2020–2021): Large green areas were planted, and the first walking and cycling paths were created.
  
  

• Third Stage (2022): A major part of the infrastructure was completed, and some sections became partially accessible.
  
  

• Public Opening: Key sections of the garden were officially opened to visitors in 2023, while additional areas continued developing through 2024.
  
  

Through this gradual transformation, the garden became one of the most important natural destinations in Istanbul.

Location and Size

The garden is located on the former grounds of Atatürk Airport in Yeşilköy – Bakırköy, on the European side of Istanbul.
It covers over one million square meters, making it one of the largest urban parks in the city.

Garden Services and Main Areas

1. Wide Green Landscapes

• Open lawns suitable for relaxation.
  
  

• Newly planted small forests.
  
  

• Natural shaded spots for resting during walks.
  
  

2. Walking and Running Paths

• Long pathways dedicated to exercise.
  
  

• Soft ground suitable for long-distance running.
  
  

• Clear signs that help visitors navigate easily.
  
  

3. Children’s Play Area

• Safe and modern playground equipment.
  
  

• Shock-absorbing flooring for protection.
  
  

• Shaded seating areas for families.
  
  

4. Open Event Squares

• Wide spaces for cultural activities and festivals.
  
  

• Areas designed for performances and public gatherings.
  
  

5. Water Features and Small Artificial Ponds

• Calm water scenes that add a gentle atmosphere.
  
  

• Short bridges offering pleasant walking moments.
  
  

6. Cycling Routes

• Safe cycling paths running across the garden.
  
  

• Rest points distributed along the route.
  
  

General Facilities

• Clean and equipped restrooms.
  
  

• Benches throughout the park.
  
  

• Small kiosks offering light drinks.
  
  

• Modern night lighting.
  
  

• Spacious family-friendly areas.
  
  

Entry and Opening Hours

• Entry is completely free.
  
  

• The garden is open 24 hours a day, every day.
  
  

How to Get There

• By Metro: Nearby metro lines leading to the former airport area.
  
  

• By Bus: Local buses stopping at the main entrances of the garden.
  
  

• By Car: Multiple entrances with wide parking areas.