Kızılay-Kavaklıdere Green Route

Route and Why This Order

This route links Çankaya's park and green-space fabric in a single walk. It begins at Kuğulu Park, known for its swan pond; this landmark park in Kavaklıdere offers a calm opening to the day. A walk brings visitors to nearby Botanical Park; Atakule, rising right above the park, follows as a natural next stop placed at the midpoint of the day — the panoramic view from the tower lets visitors look down on the green route walked so far. The route continues at the monument grouping in Seğmenler Park and ends on the multi-phase walking trails of Dikmen Valley.

Duration, Distance and Transport

The total walking distance between stops is about 5 km; the route takes 3-4 hours. The whole route can be covered on foot.

When to Go

Spring and autumn are the seasons when the parks show their greenest. Timing Atakule for near sunset is the way to see the city in its most striking light.

Local Tip

Taking a morning coffee break at the cafés around Kuğulu Park is a good chance to watch the park's swans before starting the rest of the day.