Ankara's endless energy, the crowds of Kızılay, the buzz of Tunalı Hilmi Avenue... Amidst the city's fast pace, sometimes you just want to stop and take a breath, don't you? At that very moment, a hidden oasis in the heart of the city awaits you: Kuğulu Park (Swan Park). In the middle of concrete and hustle, this unique corner, opening its arms to you with greenery and tranquility, is like an escape point. So, what awaits you in this small but magical park? Let's take a look at our list of Things to do in Kugulu Park together and discover how you can enjoy these moments of peace.

Watch the swans and ducks that have become the symbol of Ankara

The first thing that greets you when you step into Kuğulu Park will be the elegant swans gliding in the pond in the middle of the park and the cheerful ducks accompanying them. Watching them, seeing them float on the water, is like a meditative experience that makes you forget all the city's noise. As you enjoy this moment, have you ever wondered how these swans came to the park?   

The story of these graceful creatures is, in fact, living proof of inter-city friendship and diplomacy. The park was established in 1958. Its fate and name changed with the swans that came as a gift from the city of Vienna, symbolizing the friendship between Turkey and Austria. This gift not only brought new residents to the park but also established a warm bond between the two capitals, turning the park into a monument of international friendship.   

The park's biological richness is not limited to swans and ducks. When you turn your eyes to the branches of the trees, you might be surprised to learn that this small green area is home to various bird species. This shows that Kuğulu Park is not just a resting area, but also a valuable micro-ecosystem resisting urbanization in the middle of the city. This small oasis serves as a vital sanctuary for creatures adapted to city life and once again demonstrates the ecological importance of urban green spaces.   

Take a tea or coffee break at the park's cafe

After the pleasant moments spent watching the elegance of the swans and listening to the sounds of nature, wouldn't you like to crown this atmosphere with a cup of hot tea or coffee? The cafe located inside the park offers an ideal resting spot for these moments. The pleasure of sipping your drink while sitting against the pond view and watching the life around you is priceless.   

The cafe offers a variety of options for visitors who want to relax and eat something. From a traditional breakfast to start the day, to delicious kebabs and pide for lunch, to snacks and desserts, you can find many choices. This variety makes the cafe an attractive stop at any time of the day.   

We'd like to give you a friendly piece of advice here. The biggest advantage of the place is undoubtedly its unique location and view. However, this popularity can lead to crowds, especially on weekends and in good weather. It's best to manage your expectations: sit back, relax, and live in the moment, enjoying the calm rhythm of the park.

Take a calm and green break from your Tunalı Hilmi tour

Tunalı Hilmi Avenue, one of Ankara's most vibrant and lively streets, is where the heart of shopping and social life beats. The energy of this street envelops you as you look at shop windows, browse stores, or meet up with friends. Right next to this dynamic atmosphere, Kuğulu Park awaits you as an island of tranquility, just a few steps away.   

The park is a magical transition point that brings together the concrete texture of Tunalı Hilmi with the green of the plane trees. It's the perfect breathing stop where you can relieve your shopping fatigue, sit on a bench to examine your purchases, or simply get away from the crowd to read your book.

As you wander through the park, you can discover not only nature but also art. At the entrance, you are greeted by the statue of Tunalı Hilmi, after whom the avenue is named. A playground designed for families promises delightful moments for the little visitors.   

Kuğulu Park is a truly democratic public space that brings together people from all walks of life, thanks to its free and 24-hour access. Students, employees, families, and tourists enjoy the city in this common area. Being under protection as a First Degree Natural Protected Area is an indicator of how valuable it is not only for today but also for future generations. Kuğulu Park is just one piece of Ankara's social and cultural fabric. To discover all the other wonders the capital has to offer, you can check out our comprehensive guide to places to visit in Ankara.

While You're Here: Discovery Stops Around Kuğulu Park

If you've gathered your energy after finding peace in Kuğulu Park, you can continue your adventure with other beauties in the vicinity. Here are a few suggestions:

For Nature Lovers: If the greenery of Kuğulu Park wasn't enough for you, you can visit its bigger siblings nearby. Seğmenler Park , which spreads over a much larger area, or   

Botanik Park , the hidden paradise next to Atakule, are great alternatives for nature walks and relaxation.   

For History Buffs: If you want to witness Ankara's thousands of years of history, you should definitely turn your route to the magnificent structure that is the city's symbol. Offering a panoramic view of Ankara and where you can get lost in its historical streets, Ankara Castle will take you on a journey through time.   

Reference

To learn more about the positive effects of urban green spaces like Kuğulu Park on city life and society, you can review the academic article titled The Economic Value of the Health Benefits of a New Urban Park published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, which can be accessed here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there an entrance fee for Kuğulu Park? No, entrance to Kuğulu Park is completely free. You can visit any day of the week, at any time you wish.   

2. What are the opening hours of Kuğulu Park? The park is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It has a different beauty during the day and in the evenings with its lighting. 

3. How can I get to Kuğulu Park by public transport? Thanks to its central location, transportation is very easy. The table below will help you: