Are you planning a trip to Eskişehir, but does your list of places seem to cater only to children or just to adults? Are you struggling to find that perfect spot where everyone will return with a huge smile on their face? Don't worry, because right in the heart of Eskişehir, there is a massive dream world that opens the doors to different universes for visitors of all ages: Sazova Science, Art, and Culture Park! In this incredible 400,000-square-meter area, an adventure awaits you, stretching from fantastic castles to pirate ships, from the mysterious corridors of science to the depths of space. This is where our list of things to do in Sazova Park comes in, showing you how to experience the most unforgettable moments in this giant park without getting lost.

Sazova is so large that touring it all in one day requires good stamina, just so you know. But with the right plan, you can discover the park's most captivating spots and add an unforgettable memory to your Eskişehir trip. If you're ready, let's map out the route for this fairytale day together!   

Take a photo in front of the Fairytale Castle, reminiscent of Disney castles

The first structure that will catch your eye when you step into Sazova Park is undoubtedly the Fairytale Castle, with its colorful towers reaching for the sky. At first glance, it might seem like something straight out of a Disney movie, but this castle has a much deeper and more meaningful story. This structure is, in fact, a tribute to our cultural heritage from all over Turkey.

The castle has 26 towers, each with a different design, inspired by our country's iconic structures. For instance, in one tower, you can see Istanbul's Galata Tower, in another the Maiden's Tower, and in yet another, Mardin's Ulu Tower or Amasya's Burgulu Tower. So, that amazing photo you take in front of the castle is actually a fantastic reflection of Turkey's architectural richness.   

The castle's magic isn't limited to its exterior. When you step inside, the Land of Legends greets you. Here, you will encounter the stories of Turkish fairytale heroes like Nasreddin Hoca, Keloğlan, and Dede Korkut, and listen to the legend of King Midas. The Mysterious Journey tour, especially designed for children aged 6-11, makes them the heroes of an interactive tale that extends from the Wizard of Oz to Sleeping Beauty. While entry to the park is free, you need to buy a ticket to enter the castle. Prices can change over time, so it's always a good idea to check the official website before you go.   

Climb aboard the Pirate Ship's deck and view the park

After leaving the magic of the Fairytale Castle and walking towards the artificial pond in the middle of the park, another surprise awaits you: a giant Pirate Ship, anchored in all its glory! Also known as the Galleon Ship, this structure is a favorite, especially for children and adults who haven't lost their adventurous spirit.

When you enter the ship, you truly find yourself in the middle of a pirate story. The interior, filled with a captain's cabin, sailors' hammocks, dark dungeons, and treasure chests, is so realistically designed that you feel like you could run into a pirate at any moment. It takes about 15-20 minutes to explore, so you can easily fit it into your busy tour schedule.   

However, the real highlight of the Pirate Ship begins when you climb up to its deck. When you look at the Fairytale Castle standing on the opposite shore of the pond from the deck, you capture one of the most beautiful photo opportunities in Eskişehir. This view combines the park's fairytale and adventurous spirit in a single frame. If you want to carry your adventurous spirit to other parts of the city after the Pirate Ship, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to places to visit in Eskişehir.

Visit the Science Experiment Center and Sabancı Space House

After tales and adventures, we turn our route to the secrets of the universe and the fun world of science. The Science Experiment Center and Sabancı Space House, the intellectual heart of Sazova Park, are two wonderful places that will spark your curiosity.

The Science Experiment Center brings science out of boring formulas and into everyday life with its touching is allowed motto. The first to greet you here are scientists like Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, and Ali Kuşçu, speaking to you from paintings on the wall. In the center, you can personally conduct hundreds of experiments, from the buoyancy of water to sound waves. Especially in workshops like My Bee, My Honey, My Pollen for children, they experience incredible things like making a necklace from their own DNA. 

The giant sphere-shaped structure right next to it is the Sabancı Space House. This is a bit different from the planetariums you might know. When you sit under the 96-person giant dome, you're not just waiting for a pre-recorded film. Thanks to a special program consisting of real-time space images, you embark on an interactive journey among the galaxies accompanied by a presenter. Each session promises a completely different universal adventure. Tickets for these two venues are sold separately, and the Space House, in particular, has specific session times, so it's important to plan before you go. Don't let your curiosity for science and technology be limited to Sazova; you can also check out our   

Istanbul Museum of Modern Artpage for inspiring places across the country.

While You're Here...

After a day spent in the modern and fairytale world of Sazova, how about exploring the historical and bohemian spirit of Eskişehir? If you still have energy after the park, be sure to turn your route towards the city's other iconic spots.

Get Lost in the Historic Streets of Odunpazarı: Walk among the colorful bay-windowed houses on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, buy meerschaum souvenirs from the Atlıhan Handicrafts Bazaar, and visit the world-renowned Odunpazarı Modern Museum (OMM).   

Catch a Venetian Vibe on the Porsuk River: Feel like you're in Venice by taking a gondola tour on the Porsuk River, which flows through the middle of the city. Afterwards, sit at one of the cafes in the Adalar region and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.   

Visit the Yılmaz Büyükerşen Wax Museum: Don't miss the chance to take photos alongside historical and popular figures at Turkey's first wax museum.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an entrance fee for Sazova Park? No, entry to Sazova Park itself is completely free. However, special areas within the park, such as the Fairytale Castle, Pirate Ship, and Science Experiment Center, each have their own entrance fees.   

What are the opening days and hours for Sazova Park? Although the park is generally open every day of the week, the main attractions inside, like the Fairytale Castle, Science Experiment Center, and Sabancı Space House, are closed on Mondays. Visiting hours usually start at 10:00 AM and close around 5:00-5:30 PM. However, since hours can vary by season, it's best to check official sources before planning your visit.   

Is it possible to see the whole park in one day? Since Sazova Park is very large, it's nearly impossible to see everything in one day. You can have an enjoyable full day by choosing the 3-4 main points highlighted in this article. If you also want to see other large areas like the Zoo and the Eti Underwater World, you might consider spreading your visit over two days.   

References

The ticket prices and session times mentioned in the article are frequently updated. For the most accurate and current information, we recommend checking the official source before your visit:

Source: Official Website of Eskişehir Science Experiment Center and Sabancı Space House (https://www.eskisehirbilimdeneymerkezi.com/).