7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Turkey

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia with its impressive architecture and history blending both Christian and Islamic influences.
Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet district, easily reachable by tram or taxi.
TRY 100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

After Hagia Sophia, walk over to the Topkapi Palace to learn about the grand Ottoman Empire history and see stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Topkapi Palace is adjacent to Hagia Sophia, and tickets can be purchased on-site.
TRY 150, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Grand Bazaar

End your day at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, perfect for souvenir shopping and enjoying local cuisine.
The Grand Bazaar is a short walk from Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
Varies, 2-3 hours
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Day 2: Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

5:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the breathtaking sunrise over Cappadocia from a hot air balloon, witnessing the unique fairy chimneys and rock formations.
Hot air balloon rides usually depart from Goreme, so a transfer can be arranged from your hotel.
EUR 150-200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum

After the balloon ride, explore the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum with its cave churches and ancient frescoes.
The museum is within walking distance from the town center of Goreme.
TRY 45, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Cave Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional lunch in one of Cappadocia's cave restaurants, a unique dining experience for the whole family.
Several cave restaurants are located in Goreme and Uchisar.
TRY 70, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Relaxing Day in Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:00AM

Pamukkale Travertines

Visit the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale, known for its mineral-rich thermal waters and picturesque cascading pools.
Pamukkale is easily accessible by local transport or taxi from the town center.
TRY 60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis, with its well-preserved ruins, Roman theater, and ancient thermal bath complex.
Hierapolis is located adjacent to Pamukkale, and a combined ticket can be purchased for both sites.
TRY 50, 2-3 hours

3:00PM

Swimming in Cleopatra's Pool

End your day by taking a dip in Cleopatra's Pool, a mineral-rich thermal pool surrounded by ancient columns and Roman ruins.
Cleopatra's Pool is part of the Hierapolis complex and requires an additional entrance fee.
TRY 32, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Discovering Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Ephesus Archaeological Site

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the Mediterranean region, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater.
Ephesus is located near Selcuk and can be easily reached by car or local transport.
TRY 100, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant near Ephesus, offering delicious kebabs and mezes.
There are several restaurants in Selcuk serving authentic Turkish dishes.
TRY 80, 1-2 hours

2:00PM

House of Virgin Mary

Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary, located on Mount Koressos.
The House of Virgin Mary is a short drive from Ephesus and offers a peaceful retreat.
TRY 20, 1 hour
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Day 5: Beach Day in Bodrum

Bodrum, Turkey

10:00AM

Relax at Bodrum Beach

Spend a relaxing day at Bodrum Beach, enjoying the sun, sea, and sand with various beach clubs offering amenities for families.
Bodrum Beach is easily accessible by local transport or car and offers water sports and beachfront cafes.
TRY 50, 4-5 hours

3:00PM

Bodrum Castle

Visit Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the Aegean Sea, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology with artifacts from ancient shipwrecks.
Bodrum Castle is within walking distance from Bodrum Beach and offers panoramic views of the coast.
TRY 40, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a seaside restaurant in Bodrum, savoring fresh local catches and Mediterranean flavors.
There are numerous seafood restaurants along the waterfront in Bodrum, offering a picturesque dining experience.
TRY 100, 1-2 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

9:00AM

Antalya Old Town (Kaleici)

Stroll through the charming streets of Antalya's Old Town, Kaleici, lined with Ottoman-era houses, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.
Kaleici is best explored on foot, starting from Hadrian's Gate and wandering down to the picturesque harbor.
Free, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Turkish Taverna

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a Turkish taverna in Kaleici, offering traditional kebabs, mezes, and Turkish tea.
There are several tavernas and local eateries in Kaleici serving authentic Turkish cuisine.
TRY 70, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Duden Waterfalls

Visit the stunning Duden Waterfalls, where the Duden River cascades over rocky cliffs into the Mediterranean Sea, offering beautiful natural scenery.
The waterfalls are easily accessible by car or local transport from Antalya city center.
TRY 10, 1-2 hours
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Day 7: Farewell Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise, taking in panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline, historic landmarks, and crossing between Europe and Asia.
Bosphorus cruises depart from various points along the Bosphorus, offering different durations and sights.
TRY 60, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy a farewell lunch at a seafood restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus, tasting fresh catches while soaking in the views.
There are many seafood restaurants along the Bosphorus offering a delightful dining experience.
TRY 100, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Istiklal Street

Spend your afternoon shopping at Istiklal Street, a bustling pedestrian avenue with a wide range of shops, cafes, and street performers.
Istiklal Street is located in the Beyoglu district and can be reached easily by tram or taxi.
Varies, 2-3 hours
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