A 6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Turky

Thursday, September 21: Istanbul

Start your trip in the vibrant city of Istanbul. In the morning, visit the iconic Blue Mosque and marvel at its magnificent architecture. Spend the afternoon exploring the grand Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing Bosphorus cruise and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the city.

• Blue Mosque: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Topkapi Palace: Entrance fee is 100 TRY (approximately $12), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Bosphorus Cruise: Cost varies depending on the tour operator, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, September 22: Cappadocia

Travel to the enchanting region of Cappadocia. Start your morning with a hot air balloon ride to experience the breathtaking landscape from above. Afterward, explore the ancient cave dwellings and rock formations in the Göreme Open Air Museum. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner and watch a mesmerizing whirling dervish performance.

• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost varies depending on the operator, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Göreme Open Air Museum: Entrance fee is 75 TRY (approximately $9), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Traditional Dinner and Whirling Dervish Show: Cost varies depending on the restaurant/show, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, September 23: Pamukkale

Visit the stunning natural wonder of Pamukkale. Start your day by exploring the remarkable white terraces and thermal pools, formed over thousands of years. Afterward, visit the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis and discover its well-preserved ruins, including the theater and the fascinating Necropolis. Take a dip in the warm mineral-rich waters of Cleopatra's Pool before heading back to your hotel.

• Pamukkale Terraces: Entrance fee is 35 TRY (approximately $4), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Hierapolis: Entrance fee is 35 TRY (approximately $4), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Cleopatra's Pool: Entrance fee is 50 TRY (approximately $6), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, September 24: Ephesus

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. In the morning, visit the iconic Library of Celsus and the impressive Great Theater. Afterward, explore the Terrace Houses to witness the luxurious lifestyle of the Roman elites. In the afternoon, take a short drive to the charming village of Şirince and indulge in delicious local wines.

• Ephesus: Entrance fee is 100 TRY (approximately $12), estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Terrace Houses: Entrance fee is 20 TRY (approximately $2.5), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Şirince: Free to visit, wine tasting fees may apply, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Monday, September 25: Antalya

Head to the beautiful coastal city of Antalya. Start your day by exploring the historic Kaleici neighborhood, known for its narrow streets and Ottoman-era architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Antalya Museum to learn about the region's rich history. Relax on the stunning Konyaalti Beach in the evening and enjoy the picturesque sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

• Kaleici: Free to visit, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Antalya Museum: Entrance fee is 40 TRY (approximately $5), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Konyaalti Beach: Free to visit, estimated time spent: flexible

Tuesday, September 26: Ankara

End your trip in the capital city of Ankara. Start your morning by visiting the impressive Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in the afternoon. In the evening, stroll around Kızılay Square, the city's vibrant center, and enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish meal.

• Anitkabir: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Entrance fee is 50 TRY (approximately $6), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Kızılay Square: Free to visit, estimated time spent: flexible

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly adventure off the beaten path, head to the ancient city of Termessos, located near Antalya. Explore the well-preserved ruins, hike through the beautiful nature reserve, and enjoy breathtaking views from the hilltop theater. Another hidden gem is the Fairy Chimneys Valley in Cappadocia, where you can go on a family-friendly hike and discover the unique rock formations.

Plan your trip to Turky now! Check hotel and flight prices here.