Do you have a bench where you like to sit, relax, and dream? Luckily, I have.

Located in a very small park in Aşiyan, Bebek, there is a bench behind the sculpture of the poet Orhan Veli. This bench invites my soul to pause after my morning walks along the bustling Bosphorus.

The sight of passing boats, the reflection of sunlight on the water, the sound of the old trees, and the panoramic view of Bosphorus, combined with the passing cars and city vibe, offer a harmonious blend of nature and urban life. I love and appreciate the thoughtful placement of poet Orhan Veli’s sculpture nearby – a tribute to his poetic spirit and a sense of connection to the artistic soul of Istanbul.

The bench itself, though simple in design, provides a comfortable and inviting place to rest. Whether I want to sit in silence, read a book, or watch the world go by, the bench offers me the perfect place to do so.

Don’t miss the chance to visit this bench while walking from Bebek to Rumeli Hisari for some stunning views of the Bosphorus. Please note that The Aşiyan Museum, which is the house of another Turkish poet, Tevfik Fikret, is located near the bench and offers further planning opportunities.

Here’s a short part from my favorite poem by Orhan Veli:

” I listen to Istanbul, my eyes closed:

First, a light wind blowing

A soft wind swaying

The leaves in the trees,

And far off in the distance…”