Exploring Turkey — Family Friendly 4-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Istanbul
    Estimated distance: 20 minutes (10 km) from the airport

    Begin your first day in Istanbul at the Topkapi Palace Museum which immerses you into history with its lavish architecture and fascinating collection of precious objects. Next, make your way to the globally recognized Grand Bazaar for a shopping spree with a family-friendly twist. Don't forget to ride on the Traditional Turkish boat ride known as the Bosphorus tour as you enjoy magnificent views of Istanbul, and to be immersed in the culture, catch a performance of traditional Ottoman music and dancing at the Hodjapasha Cultural Centre.

  2. Day 2: Cappadocia
    Estimated flight time: 1 hour and 30 minutes from Istanbul

    Families will love exploring the other-worldly landscape of Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, an entire complex of rock-carved Orthodox churches featuring stunning frescoes. Next, head for a family-friendly hike through the Red and Rose Valleys known for its fascinating rock formations. End your unforgettable day by watching the magical hot air balloons that dot the sunrise and sunset sky.

  3. Day 3: Antalya
    Estimated flight time: 1 hour and 20 minutes from Cappadocia

    A trip to Antalya is incomplete without a visit to the Antalya Museum, a state-of-the-art facility that uses modern technology to bring the region's rich history to life. Families can also enjoy a day at the Antalya Aquarium, where they can observe marine wildlife from all over the world, or visit the Kaleici Old Town to experience the city's historical character, beautiful lanes and old fortifications. Unwind at the end of the day strolling through the Düden Waterfalls.

  4. Day 4: Izmir
    Estimated flight time: 1 hour and 30 minutes from Antalya

    Welcome to the ancient city of Izmir, founded by Alexander the Great in 300 BC. First, visit the iconic historical landmark Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Next, get in touch with nature at the Urla Bird Sanctuary and relax at Çeşme-Ilica Beach, the most family-friendly beach of Izmir, where a plethora of activities await your family. Catch beautiful sunset views near the family-friendly Alsancak Coastline.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Topkapi Palace Museum (2-3 hours, 150 TRY)
  • Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, 50 TRY)
  • Bosphorus tour (2 hours, 60 TRY)
  • Flight to Cappadocia (from 300 TRY, each way per person)
  • Göreme Open Air Museum (2-3 hours, 35 TRY)
  • Hot air balloon ride (1 hour, 750 TRY per person)
  • Flight to Antalya (from 250 TRY, each way per person)
  • Antalya Museum (1-2 hours, 50 TRY)
  • Antalya Aquarium (2-3 hours, 110 TRY)
  • Kaleici Old Town (3 hours, Free Admission)
  • Düden Waterfalls (2-3 hours, 10 TRY)
  • Flight to Izmir (from 200 TRY, each way per person)
  • Ephesus (3-4 hours, 100 TRY)
  • Urla Bird Sanctuary (1 hour, 10 TRY)
  • Çeşme-Ilica Beach (3-4 hours, Free Admission)
  • Alsancak Coastline (1-2 hours, Free Admission)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 1,655 TRY per person, excluding flights and accommodation.

Useful Tips

To save time, Domestic flights are the best way to get from city to city. Families can accommodate the itinerary depending on their interests such as spending more time in shopping, and walking at beaches or hustling the ancient history tours. Keep in mind that this itinerary is for travelling in April and May and Cherry blossom season in Istanbul is really astounding. For the experience of Istalbul, it is recommended to stay for 5-6 days. Istanbul's public transportation is the most economical way of traveling around. Do check out the entry and exit points of different attractions to plan your daily itinerary accordingly.

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