A 15-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Explore the Best of Turkey

  • Day 1: Istanbul's Old City
    Approximately 30 minutes (17 km) from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport

    Start your Turkish adventure by exploring Istanbul's Old City, which offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural history. Explore Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia, all of which are breathtaking examples of Ottoman architecture.

  • Day 2: Istanbul's Spice Bazaar
    Approximately 20 minutes (11 km) from Day 1's last location

    Head to the Spice Bazaar in the morning, which is a marketplace filled with exotic flavors and authentic Turkish products. You can try delicious Turkish food, buy spices and souvenirs, and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of this historic market.

  • Day 3: Istanbul's Bosphorus Cruise
    Approximately 15 minutes (8 km) from Day 2's last location

    Explore Istanbul from a different angle by embarking on a Bosphorus Cruise. See iconic landmarks, stunning palaces and villas, and enjoy the city's modern skyline.

  • Day 4: Explore Princes Islands
    Approximately 45 minutes (24 km) from Day 3's last location

    Take a day trip to Princes Islands, which is a picturesque archipelago of nine islands. Explore the ruins of the Byzantine Empire and the stunning beaches, which make it a perfect spot for a family picnic or swim.

  • Day 5: Bursa's Historical Center
    Approximately 2 hours (118 km) from Day 4's last location

    Bursa is the best place to experience traditional Turkish culture, visit the historical center and enjoy the traditional Turkish bath experience in Old Town.

  • Day 6: Uludağ National Park
    Approximately 45 minutes (22 km) from Day 5's last location

    Spend the day exploring the stunning Uludağ National Park. You could hike on the trails, picnic in the woods or even try skiing (in winter).

  • Day 7: Bursa's Oylat Thermal Springs
    Approximately 90 minutes (89 km) from Day 6's last location

    Relax in Bursa's Olyat Thermal Springs, which are known for their healing and therapeutic properties. Adults and children can enjoy the warm waters, perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing.

  • Day 8: Izmir's Seaside
    Approximately 3 hours (219 km) from Day 7's last location

    Izmir is a charming city on the Aegean Sea. Explore the city center and experience local customs at the Kemeralti Bazaar. Then have a refreshing dip in the clear waters of the Aegean Sea while enjoying the city's stunning coastline.

  • Day 9: Ephesus Ancient City
    Approximately 1 hour (89 km) from Day 8's last location

    Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient city’s you will find in Turkey. Walk through history through the Celsus Library and the Great Theatre which still hosts events to date.

  • Day 10: Pamukkale's Thermal Pools
    Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes (194 km) from Day 9's last location

    Marvel at Pamukkale's surreal landscape of mineral-rich thermal pools, which are situated on a terraced hillside.We recommend this visit early morning or late afternoon, outside of peak hours to get the best experience.

  • Day 11: Antalya's Old Town and Beaches
    Approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes (456 km) from Day 10's last location

    Antalya is one of Turkey's most picturesque cities, boasting white-sandy beaches and ancient buildings. The old town is renowned for its stunning architecture and picturesque harbor, while the beaches offer an array of water sports and other outdoor activities.

  • Day 12: Cappadocia's Fairy Chimneys
    Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes (525 km) from Day 11's last location

    The beautiful region of Cappadocia is famous for its "fairy chimneys", which are unique rock formations carved by the wind and rain. Explore the underground cities, valleys and traditional architecture, get lost in the surreal world and enjoy an unforgettable hot air balloon ride at sunrise!

  • Day 13: Konya's Mevlana Museum
    Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes (310 km) from Day 12's last location

    Konya is a city that is important in Islamic history, being the home of the spiritual leader Rumi. Visit Mevlana Museum and the numerous museums dedicated to his teachings and learn about the rich culture and traditions.

  • Day 14: Kaputas Beach, Kas
    Approximately 4 hours (228 km) from Day 13's last location

    In Kas, a small charming place by the Mediterranean, the two things not to be missed are a visit to Kaputas Beach and Genoese Castle with its unique amazing view. Kaputas Beach is located in a small cove surrounded by rocky cliffs where the turquoise waters contrast with the white sand.

  • Day 15: Saklikent National Park
    Approximately 35 minutes (23 km) from Day 14's last location

    Saklikent National Park is a breathtaking natural wonderland situated close to Antalya. Hike the gorge, soak in the stunning views, and take a dip in the cool waters of the Saklikent River.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, 140TL)
  • Blue Mosque (1-2 hours, free)
  • Hagia Sophia (1-2 hours, 90TL)
  • Spice Bazaar (2-3 hours, free)
  • Bosphorus Cruise (2 hours, 60TL)
  • Princes Islands Day Trip (4-6 hours, 20TL)
  • Bursa’s City Center (3-4 hours, free)
  • Uludağ National Park (4-6 hours, 45TL)
  • Oylat Thermal Springs (4-6 hours, 50TL)
  • Kemeralti Bazaar (2-3 hours, free)
  • Ephesus Ancient City (2-3 hours, 80TL)
  • Pamukkale Thermal Pools (2-3 hours, 50TL)
  • Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys (8-10 hours, 250TL)
  • Mevlana Museum (2-3 hours, 40TL)
  • Kaputas Beach (3-4 hours, free)
  • Saklikent National Park (3-4 hours, 25TL)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 900TL per person

Transportation

Traveling in Turkey is relatively easy. Trains, buses, and domestic flights connect most of the major destinations. For this itinerary, we recommend using domestic flights or hiring a private car and driver, depending on your budget and preferred travel style. Flights are easy to arrange and are a quick way to connect the more distant places in the itinerary. The cost of flights and driving depends on the distance and the airport's proximity to each of the destinations.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, we recommend exploring the Black Sea coast, visiting the hot air balloon trails in Cappadocia or even drifting along Dalyan River. If you have less time, you can customize this itinerary and omit non-critical destinations depending on what you’d like to achieve. Booking hotels, tours and transport in advance will save time and money. It is also essential to bring comfortable clothes and suitable shoes for walking and outdoor activities, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

Airports

Istanbul has two international airports: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), which is located further south of the city center (distance from the city center: 35km); and Atatürk Airport, which is situated conveniently next to the city center. Other airports serving the itinerary include Adnan Menderes Airport in Izmir, Cardak Airport in Denizli (near Pamukkale), Antalya Airport in Antalya, and Kayseri Airport in Kayseri (for Cappadocia).

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