Family Travel Guide to Turkey: Things To Do, Where to Eat & Stay

Turkey is a fantastic destination for family travel, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient ruins to beautiful beaches and bustling markets, there is something for everyone. This family travel guide will help you discover the best things to do, where to eat, and where to stay in Turkey. Let’s dive in!

1. Istanbul: A City of Wonders

Top Attractions for Families

Hagia Sophia: This historic site offers a glimpse into Turkey’s rich history and is a must-visit for families. Topkapi Palace: Explore the opulent rooms and lush gardens of this former royal residence. Basilica Cistern: A fascinating underground structure that will captivate both kids and adults.

Family-Friendly Activities

Boat Tours on the Bosphorus: Enjoy a scenic boat tour and view Istanbul’s skyline from the water. Miniaturk: A miniature park showcasing Turkey’s most famous landmarks in small scale. Istanbul Aquarium: A modern aquarium with a variety of sea life and interactive exhibits.

Dining with Kids

Sultanahmet Köftecisi: Famous for its delicious Turkish meatballs, a hit with kids. The House Cafe: Offers a varied menu and a kid-friendly atmosphere. Dürümzade: Perfect for trying out Turkish wraps that are both tasty and kid-friendly.

Best Places to Stay

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: Luxurious and centrally located with family-friendly services. The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul: Offers comfortable family suites and amenities. The Marmara Taksim: Located in the heart of the city, ideal for families exploring Istanbul.

2. Cappadocia: A Land of Fairy Chimneys

Must-See Attractions

Göreme Open-Air Museum: Explore rock-cut churches and stunning frescoes. Kaymakli Underground City: A fascinating underground network that kids will love exploring. Pasabag (Monk’s Valley): Famous for its fairy chimneys and unique rock formations.

Activities for Families

Hot Air Balloon Rides: A breathtaking way to see Cappadocia’s unique landscape. Horseback Riding: A fun and adventurous way to explore the valleys. Hiking and Walking Tours: Family-friendly trails like the Rose Valley offer beautiful scenery and easy paths.

Family Dining Options

Seyyah Han: Offers traditional Turkish dishes in a family-friendly setting. Seten Restaurant: Known for its delicious local cuisine and beautiful views. Nazar Borek & Cafe: Great for quick bites and local snacks.

Where to Stay

Museum Hotel: A unique hotel offering cave rooms and exceptional views. Kelebek Special Cave Hotel: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and amenities. Argos in Cappadocia: Offers spacious rooms and beautiful surroundings, perfect for families.

3. Antalya: The Turkish Riviera

Family-Friendly Attractions

Antalya Aquarium: One of the largest tunnel aquariums in the world. Duden Waterfalls: A beautiful natural site perfect for a family outing. Antalya Zoo: A great place for kids to see a variety of animals.

Outdoor Activities

Beach Day at Konyaaltı or Lara Beach: Enjoy sun, sand, and sea at these family-friendly beaches. Boat Trips: Explore the coastline and enjoy a day out on the water. Jeep Safari: An adventurous way to explore the Taurus Mountains and surrounding areas.

Dining with the Family

7 Mehmet: A renowned restaurant offering delicious Turkish cuisine. Lara Balık Evi: Great seafood with a kid-friendly menu. Pio Gastro Bar & Bistro: Offers a varied menu that caters to both adults and kids.

Accommodation

Rixos Downtown Antalya: Offers family suites and numerous activities for kids. Barut Lara: A family-friendly resort with pools, kids’ clubs, and entertainment. Club Hotel Sera: Known for its family-friendly amenities and beachfront location.

4. Ephesus and Izmir: Historical and Modern Blend

Top Attractions

Ephesus: Explore the ancient city and its impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus. House of the Virgin Mary: A significant religious site located near Ephesus. Izmir’s Kemeralti Market: A bustling market where families can shop and explore.

Family Activities

Aqua Fantasy Aquapark: A fun-filled water park ideal for kids. Izmir Wildlife Park: Home to a variety of animals and great for a family day out. Asansör: An elevator ride offering panoramic views of Izmir.

Dining with Kids

Deniz Restaurant: Known for its seafood and kid-friendly menu. Meşhur Hisarönü Şambalicisi: A great place for desserts and local sweets. Kordonboyu: Offers a variety of dining options along the waterfront.

Family Accommodation

Swissôtel Grand Efes Izmir: A luxurious hotel with family-friendly services. Kaya Izmir Thermal & Convention: Offers thermal pools and family rooms. Palm Wings Ephesus Beach Resort: Ideal for families visiting Ephesus.

5. Bodrum: Beachside Fun

Family Attractions

Bodrum Castle: Explore this historical fortress and its underwater archaeology museum. Bodrum Marina: A lively area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful yachts. Windmills of Bodrum: A picturesque spot for family photos.

Water Activities

Beach Day at Bitez or Gumbet: Enjoy the calm waters and sandy beaches perfect for kids. Snorkeling and Diving: Discover the underwater world with family-friendly snorkeling and diving tours. Boat Tours: Explore the stunning coastline and nearby islands.

Dining Options

Marina Yacht Club: Offers a variety of dishes and a kid-friendly menu. Kocadon Restaurant: A beautiful setting with delicious Turkish cuisine. Memedof Fish Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood and welcoming atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay: Offers luxurious family suites and activities. Bodrum Holiday Resort & Spa: Family-friendly with pools and entertainment. Caresse, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa: Perfect for families seeking comfort and luxury.

6. Pamukkale: Nature and History

Must-See Attractions

Travertine Terraces: Walk on these natural white terraces filled with thermal waters. Hierapolis: Explore the ancient ruins and the well-preserved theater. Cleopatra’s Pool: Swim in the thermal waters where Cleopatra once bathed.

Activities for Families

Hot Air Balloon Rides: See Pamukkale and its surroundings from above. Thermal Baths: Relax in the natural thermal baths and enjoy the therapeutic waters. Hiking: Explore the nearby trails and enjoy the natural beauty.

Family Dining

Kayas Restaurant and Bar: Offers a variety of Turkish dishes in a family-friendly setting. White House Restaurant & Cafe: Known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. Mustafa’s Restaurant: A popular spot for local cuisine and great service.

Accommodation

Doga Thermal Health & Spa: Family-friendly with thermal pools and spa services. Richmond Pamukkale Thermal: Offers comfortable rooms and access to thermal waters. Venus Suite Hotel: Known for its family-friendly amenities and excellent service.

7. Ankara: The Capital Experience

Family Attractions

Anıtkabir: Visit the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo: A great place for kids to see animals and enjoy nature. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Offers fascinating exhibits that kids and adults will enjoy.

Activities for Families

Gençlik Parkı: A large park with gardens, lakes, and amusement rides. Mogan Lake: Perfect for a family picnic and outdoor activities. Aqua Vega Aquarium: A modern aquarium with a variety of marine life.

Dining Options

Trilye Restaurant: Known for its seafood and family-friendly atmosphere. Quick China: Offers a diverse menu that caters to both kids and adults. Kalbur Balık: A popular seafood restaurant with a welcoming environment.

Where to Stay

Sheraton Ankara Hotel & Convention Center: Offers luxurious rooms and family-friendly services. Ankara HiltonSA: Known for its comfort and convenient location. Divan Ankara: Provides excellent amenities for families.

8. Fethiye: Coastal Beauty

Top Attractions

Oludeniz Beach: Famous for its blue lagoon and stunning scenery, this beach is perfect for a family day out. Butterfly Valley: A natural paradise accessible by boat, where families can explore and enjoy the beauty of nature. Saklikent Gorge: A beautiful canyon ideal for hiking and exploring with the whole family.

Outdoor Activities

Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding over Oludeniz, a breathtaking adventure for the entire family. Boat Trips: Explore the coast and nearby islands on a family-friendly boat tour, offering stunning views and relaxation. Hiking the Lycian Way: Enjoy scenic hikes suitable for families, with trails that offer beautiful landscapes and easy paths.

Family Dining

Mozaik Bahçe: Offers a variety of Turkish dishes in a garden setting, perfect for a family meal. Pasa Kebab: Known for its delicious kebabs and friendly service, ideal for dining with kids. Yengec Restaurant: A great spot for seafood with a beautiful view, offering a welcoming atmosphere for families.

Accommodation

Hillside Beach Club: Offers numerous activities for kids and families, including pools, sports, and entertainment. Liberty Hotels Lykia: Known for its family-friendly amenities and beautiful location, perfect for a relaxing stay. Jiva Beach Resort: Provides family suites, kids’ clubs, and a variety of activities for all ages.

9. Marmaris: Fun for All Ages

Must-See Attractions

Marmaris Castle and Museum: Explore this historical site with impressive views and fascinating exhibits. Atlantis Water Park: A fun-filled water park with slides, pools, and activities for kids and adults. Marmaris Marina: A lively area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful yachts, great for an evening stroll.

Activities for Families

Jeep Safari Tours: An adventurous way to explore the surrounding areas, offering fun and excitement for the whole family. Boat Tours: Discover the beautiful coastline and nearby islands on a family-friendly boat trip. Beach Day at Icmeler Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at this family-friendly beach with calm waters.

Family Dining

Ristorante Fellini: Offers Italian cuisine with a kid-friendly menu, perfect for family dinners. Ney Restaurant: Known for its Turkish dishes and welcoming atmosphere, great for families. Kervan Ocakbasi: A popular spot for grilled meats and local cuisine, ideal for family meals.

Accommodation

Grand Yazici Club Turban: A family-friendly resort with pools, kids’ clubs, and entertainment options. Green Nature Resort & Spa: Offers family suites, numerous activities, and a relaxing atmosphere. D-Resort Grand Azur: Provides luxurious accommodations and family-friendly services, perfect for a comfortable stay.

10. Kusadasi: A Gateway to History

Top Attractions

Ephesus: A short trip from Kusadasi, this ancient city offers impressive ruins and historical significance. Kusadasi Castle: Explore this historical fortress with stunning views of the coastline. Aqua Fantasy Aquapark: A fun-filled water park ideal for families with kids.

Activities for Families

Dilek National Park: Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting in this beautiful park. Boat Trips: Discover the beautiful coastline and nearby islands on a family-friendly boat tour. Adaland Aquapark: Another great water park with slides, pools, and activities for all ages.

Family Dining

Kule Seafood Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood and kid-friendly menu, perfect for family meals. Planet Yucca Restaurant: Offers a diverse menu with Turkish and international dishes, great for families. Some Where Else: A beachfront restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food.

Accommodation

Pine Bay Holiday Resort: A family-friendly resort with pools, kids’ clubs, and entertainment options. Aqua Fantasy Aquapark Hotel & Spa: Offers direct access to the water park and family-friendly amenities. Palm Wings Ephesus Beach Resort: Provides beachfront accommodations and numerous activities for kids and adults.

Conclusion

Turkey is a wonderful destination for family travel, offering a wide range of activities, attractions, and dining options that cater to all ages. From the bustling city of Istanbul to the natural beauty of Cappadocia and the relaxing beaches of Antalya, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Use this guide to plan your perfect family trip to Turkey, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.