Turkey Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in October 2023

Friday October 13: Istanbul

In the morning, visit the iconic Blue Mosque in Istanbul and marvel at its stunning architecture. Afterward, take a relaxing boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the evening, explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and experience the bustling atmosphere.

• Blue Mosque: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Bosphorus Boat Tour: Cost Estimate - $20-30 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Grand Bazaar: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Van Kahvaltı Evi, a charming cafe known for its traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Average cost for a meal is about 30-40 TL per person.
• For lunch, try Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine, located near the Blue Mosque. Enjoy authentic Ottoman dishes in a historic setting. Average cost for a meal is about 70-90 TL per person.
• For dinner, dine at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of Istanbul. Indulge in modern Turkish cuisine with a fusion twist. Average cost for a meal is about 200-300 TL per person.

Saturday October 14: Cappadocia

Start your day with a mesmerizing hot air balloon ride over the unique rock formations of Cappadocia. In the afternoon, explore the underground cities and cave churches that make this region famous. As the evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner while watching a mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes performance.

• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost Estimate - $150-200 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Underground Cities: Cost Estimate - $10-15 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Whirling Dervishes Show: Cost Estimate - $20-30 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour

Sunday October 15: Pamukkale

Spend the morning exploring the stunning terraces of Pamukkale, known for its mineral-rich thermal waters. Afterward, visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can explore well-preserved ruins and Roman baths. In the evening, relax and soak in the healing hot springs.

• Pamukkale Terraces: Cost Estimate - $20-30 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Hierapolis: Cost Estimate - $10-15 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Hot Springs: Cost Estimate - $10-20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Monday October 16: Ephesus

In the morning, explore the ancient city of Ephesus and discover its well-preserved archaeological wonders, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Afterward, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Turkish cooking class and savor the flavors of local cuisine.

• Ephesus: Cost Estimate - $15-20 per person, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• House of the Virgin Mary: Cost Estimate - $10-15 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Turkish Cooking Class: Cost Estimate - $50-80 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday October 17: Antalya

Start your day by exploring the ancient city of Perge and its well-preserved Roman ruins. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful beaches of Antalya and take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea. As the evening sets in, explore the charming old town of Kaleici and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner.

• Perge: Cost Estimate - $10-15 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Antalya Beaches: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Kaleici Old Town: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday October 18: Bodrum

Spend the morning exploring the ancient Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful beaches of Bodrum and indulge in water sports activities. As the evening approaches, visit the lively Bodrum Marina and enjoy a sunset cruise.

• Bodrum Castle: Cost Estimate - $10-15 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Museum of Underwater Archaeology: Cost Estimate - $5-10 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Bodrum Marina: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday October 19: Istanbul

Spend your last day in Istanbul visiting the magnificent Topkapi Palace and exploring its beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise along the Golden Horn and enjoy panoramic views of the city. As the evening sets in, savor a traditional Turkish dinner while watching a captivating Turkish folk dance performance.

• Topkapi Palace: Cost Estimate - $10-15 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Golden Horn Cruise: Cost Estimate - $10-20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Turkish Folk Dance Show: Cost Estimate - $20-30 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the Fairy Chimneys in Goreme, Cappadocia. These unique rock formations are perfect for exploring and offer fantastic photo opportunities. Additionally, a visit to the Butterfly Valley in Fethiye is a great way to enjoy nature with your family. This beautiful valley is home to countless butterfly species and offers scenic hiking trails.

Don't forget to check KAYAK for the best hotel and flight prices for your Turkey trip!