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A Week in Istanbul and Antalya - Family Friendly Itinerary

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul! After checking into your hotel, start your exploration at the iconic Hagia Sophia. Marvel at the stunning architecture that combines both Byzantine and Ottoman influences. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Sultanahmet district and visit the Blue Mosque, known for its exquisite blue tiles. As the evening sets in, head to the Grand Bazaar for a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and scents. Don't forget to haggle for unique souvenirs.

  • Hagia Sophia: Admission fee - 72 TRY, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Blue Mosque: Free admission, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Grand Bazaar: Free admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Van Kahvalti Evi, a cozy cafe known for its traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Indulge in an array of cheeses, olives, jams, and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
  • For lunch, try Tarihi Karaköy Balıkçısı, a seafood restaurant located in the Karaköy neighborhood. Enjoy fresh catches of the day, grilled to perfection, while admiring the panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Average cost for a meal is about 80 TL per person.
  • For dinner, dine at Hamdi Restaurant, a family-friendly establishment famous for its delicious Turkish kebabs and stunning views of the Golden Horn. Don't miss their signature Iskender Kebab. Average cost for a meal is about 60 TL per person.
Saturday, September 2: Exploring Istanbul's Asian Side

Start your day with a ferry ride to the Asian side of Istanbul. Visit the vibrant Kadikoy neighborhood, known for its lively markets and delicious street food. Grab a tasty lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, a local favorite offering a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. In the afternoon, explore the peaceful and picturesque Uskudar district, where you can visit the Maiden's Tower for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the Bosphorus.

  • Kadikoy: Free admission, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Ciya Sofrasi: Estimated cost - 100 TRY, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Uskudar: Free admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunday, September 3: Historical Gems of Istanbul

Begin your day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the former royal residence of the Ottoman sultans. Explore its stunning gardens, view the priceless collections of artifacts, and marvel at the dazzling jewels in the Treasury. In the afternoon, wander through the ancient Hippodrome Square, where chariot races were once held. Visit the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel with beautifully lit columns. End your day with a visit to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums.

  • Topkapi Palace: Admission fee - 100 TRY, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Hippodrome Square: Free admission, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Basilica Cistern: Admission fee - 20 TRY, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Istanbul Archaeological Museums: Admission fee - 20 TRY, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, September 4: Flight to Antalya

Today, catch a flight from Istanbul to Antalya. After arriving in Antalya, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and enjoy the beach. In the afternoon, explore the historic old town of Kaleici, with its narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and charming shops. Visit the Antalya Museum to learn about the region's rich history. End your day with a stroll along the beautiful cliffs of Duden Waterfalls, where you can witness the stunning natural beauty.

  • Kaleici: Free admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Antalya Museum: Admission fee - 30 TRY, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Duden Waterfalls: Entrance fee - 10 TRY, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 5: Discovering Antalya's Ancient Ruins

Embark on a journey to explore the ancient ruins surrounding Antalya. Start with a visit to the well-preserved Roman theater of Aspendos, known for its remarkable acoustics. Continue to Perge, an ancient city with impressive Roman and Hellenistic ruins. In the afternoon, head to the ancient city of Side, where you can explore the well-preserved Temple of Apollo and relax on the beautiful sandy beaches. Return to Antalya in the evening.

  • Aspendos Theater: Admission fee - 60 TRY, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Perge: Admission fee - 40 TRY, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Side: Free admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Antalya's Nature and Adventure

Spend your last day in Antalya exploring its natural wonders. Start by visiting the ancient city of Termessos, nestled in the Taurus Mountains. Hike through its ruins and enjoy breathtaking views. In the afternoon, take a boat tour to the stunning Kekova Island, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and see the partially submerged ruins of an ancient city. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the beautiful Konyaalti Beach.

  • Termessos: Admission fee - 40 TRY, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Kekova Island Boat Tour: Estimated cost - 100-150 TRY, Time spent - 4-6 hours
  • Konyaalti Beach: Free admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When exploring Istanbul, don't miss out on visiting the Chora Church, famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. For a family-friendly adventure, head to Miniaturk, a park featuring miniature models of famous landmarks from Turkey and around the world. In Antalya, consider visiting the Antalya Aquarium, where you can explore marine life and even walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Tahtali Cable Car, offering panoramic views of the coastline from Mount Tahtali.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit this link.

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