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7-Day Family Friendly Turkey Itinerary

Friday September 15: Istanbul

In the morning, start your trip by visiting the iconic Blue Mosque in Istanbul, marveling at its stunning architecture and intricate tilework. Afterward, explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, where you can find unique souvenirs and Turkish delicacies. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, enjoying panoramic views of the city. In the evening, head to Taksim Square, a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers.

  • Blue Mosque: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bosphorus Cruise: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Taksim Square: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday September 16: Cappadocia

Start your day with an early morning hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, known for its fairy chimney rock formations. Afterward, explore the ancient underground cities of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, where you can discover the fascinating history of the region. In the afternoon, visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire the rock-cut churches and frescoes. End the day with a sunset hike through the picturesque Rose Valley.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Derinkuyu or Kaymakli Underground City: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Goreme Open-Air Museum: Entrance fee around 25 TRY, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Rose Valley Hike: Free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday September 17: Pamukkale

Begin your day by exploring the stunning travertine terraces of Pamukkale, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich pools and enjoy the therapeutic properties of the area. Afterward, visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can explore well-preserved ruins, including a theater and a necropolis. In the afternoon, relax in the Cleopatra Pools, renowned for their thermal waters. End the day by watching the sunset over the travertine terraces.

  • Pamukkale Terraces: Entrance fee around 110 TRY, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hierapolis: Entrance fee around 50 TRY, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Cleopatra Pools: Entrance fee around 50 TRY, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday September 18: Bodrum

In the morning, visit the Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress that houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, showcasing artifacts from ancient shipwrecks. Afterward, stroll along the picturesque Bodrum Marina, lined with yachts, restaurants, and shops. In the afternoon, relax on one of the beautiful beaches in Bodrum, such as Gumbet Beach or Bitez Beach, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant Bodrum Bar Street, known for its nightlife and entertainment.

  • Bodrum Castle: Entrance fee around 40 TRY, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bodrum Marina: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Gumbet Beach or Bitez Beach: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bodrum Bar Street: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday September 19: Antalya

Start your day by exploring the ancient city of Perge, where you can admire well-preserved Roman ruins, including a theater and a stadium. Afterward, visit the Antalya Museum, known for its extensive collection of artifacts from the region. In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk through the charming old town of Antalya, known as Kaleici, with its narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and vibrant markets. End the day by visiting the stunning Antalya Waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery.

  • Perge: Entrance fee around 40 TRY, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Antalya Museum: Entrance fee around 30 TRY, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kaleici (Antalya Old Town): No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Antalya Waterfalls: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday September 20: Ephesus

In the morning, visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world. Explore the famous Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis. In the afternoon, take a short trip to the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary. As the evening approaches, visit the charming town of Sirince, known for its quaint streets and locally produced wine.

  • Ephesus: Entrance fee around 120 TRY, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • House of the Virgin Mary: Entrance fee around 30 TRY, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Sirince: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Mihci Meyhane, located in the heart of Sirince. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of traditional Turkish breakfast dishes such as menemen and borek. The average cost for a meal is about 30 Turkish Lira per person.
  • For lunch, head to Nana's Kitchen, a charming restaurant in Sirince known for its homemade Turkish cuisine. Enjoy dishes like kebabs, mezes, and fresh salads while dining in a beautiful garden setting. The average cost for a meal is about 50 Turkish Lira per person.
  • In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Develi Restaurant, situated in Selcuk. This renowned restaurant specializes in Turkish cuisine, offering an array of grilled meats and mezes. With its elegant ambiance and excellent service, Develi is perfect for a special night out. The average cost for a meal is about 100 Turkish Lira per person.
Thursday September 21: Istanbul

On your last day, take a Bosphorus cruise to explore the Asian side of Istanbul. Visit the picturesque neighborhoods of Kadikoy and Uskudar, where you can experience the local culture and sample delicious Turkish cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans, and admire its exquisite architecture and imperial treasures. End your trip with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Bosphorus Cruise: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Kadikoy and Uskudar: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Topkapi Palace: Entrance fee around 100 TRY, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hagia Sophia: Entrance fee around 100 TRY, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the magical Fairy Chimneys in the village of Urgup, located in Cappadocia. These unusual rock formations create a surreal landscape that will captivate both children and adults. Another hidden gem is the Duden Waterfalls in Antalya, where you can enjoy the refreshing spray of water and take stunning photos. Lastly, take a boat trip to the Princes' Islands near Istanbul and explore the car-free islands by horse-drawn carriages, relaxing on the peaceful beaches and exploring charming villages.

For hotel and flight prices in Turkey, you can check here.

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