10-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Turkey

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring a rich assortment of cheeses, olives, and fresh bread.
Recommended to drive to Van Kahvaltı Evi located in the Cihangir neighborhood.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Marvel at the stunning architecture and historical significance of this ancient basilica that has stood the test of time.
Drive 15 minutes to Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Try the famous Turkish meatballs paired with fresh bread and tomato sauce at this iconic restaurant.
5-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Wander through the lavish halls and gardens of this former royal residence, learning about the Ottoman Empire.
5-minute walk from lunch.
TRY300, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll through Gulhane Park

Let the kids run free in this serene park, perfect for a post-palace relaxation.
10-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
FREE, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

End the day with a fantastic view of the Golden Horn while enjoying delicious kebabs.
15-minute walk or 5-minute drive.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More Istanbul Wonders

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Privato

Enjoy a homestyle breakfast with homemade jams and pastries, perfect for a family starter.
Drive 15 minutes to Café Privato.
TRY180, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Set sail on the Bosphorus, experiencing stunning views of Istanbul from the water.
Head to the nearby pier (10-minute drive).
TRY600 (family), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karaköy Gümüşsuyu

Savor fresh fish and seafood right by the water, while enjoying local flavors.
Drive 10 minutes to located in Karaköy.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Spice Bazaar

Let the kids explore the vibrant colors and exciting aromas of spices, nuts, and sweets.
A 15-minute drive to the Spice Bazaar.
FREE, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Basilica Cistern

Discover this atmospheric underground water reservoir, which captures the imagination of everyone!
10-minute walk from the Spice Bazaar.
TRY200, 1 hour

5:00PM

Take a Tram to Taksim Square

Experience the historic tram ride before arriving at the buzzing Taksim Square, perfect for a family stroll.
Walk 5 minutes to the tram station.
TRY150 (family), 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Doy Doy Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful mix of traditional and modern Turkish dishes, great for families.
Located near Taksim Square.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Savor a buffet breakfast at the hotel before heading out for the day.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Cappadocia

Embark on a scenic drive to Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations.
Follow GPS for a 7-hour drive.
N/A, 7 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and relax before your dinner.
Various hotels in the region.
TRY2850 (approx.), 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Indulge in traditional pottery kebab, a must-try when in Cappadocia.
10-minute drive from hotel.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Hot Air Balloon Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey

5:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking sunrise over the fairy chimneys from a hot air balloon – an unforgettable family moment.
Pickup arranged by balloon company.
TRY12000 (family), 3 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café & Restaurant Sofra

Refuel with a hearty brunch featuring local specialties and freshly baked bread.
Drive 15 minutes to Sofra.
TRY200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site filled with rock-cut churches and frescoes—a family-friendly stroll through history.
10-minute drive from breakfast location.
TRY350, 2 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch in Pigeon Valley

Pack a picnic and enjoy the stunning scenery as your family relaxes amidst nature.
10-minute drive to Pigeon Valley.
TRY150 (for snacks), 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top for sweeping views of Cappadocia—a fun family activity that rewards you with stunning panoramas.
15-minute drive from Pigeon Valley.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley)

Wander through the surreal landscapes of Pasabag Valley, famous for its mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys.
20-minute drive from Uchisar.
FREE, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Relish in a blend of authentic Turkish dishes served in a charming setting.
Drive back towards Göreme, 15-minute stint.
TRY400, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A satisfying breakfast at your hotel to prepare for today's journey.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Pamukkale

Embark on a 9-hour drive towards the natural wonders of Pamukkale.
Use GPS for the best route.
N/A, 9 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive in Pamukkale and settle into your accommodation before dinner.
Various hotels near the travertines.
TRY2000 (approx.), 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at White House Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local specialties and fresh produce.
5-minute drive to the restaurant.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Discover Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel your day with breakfast at your hotel, ready for adventure.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Travertine Terraces

Walk on the stunning white travertine terraces and enjoy the warm mineral waters, perfect for family fun.
Short drive to the entry.
TRY300 (family), 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Tour the ancient ruins and take in the rich history that this incredible site offers.
Location is adjacent to the terraces.
TRY200 (family), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Kayas Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing lunch featuring a mix of local and international dishes.
5-minute walk from the ancient city.
TRY220, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Swim in Cleopatra's Pool

Take a dip in the thermal waters of Cleopatra's Pool, a historical site that dates back to Roman times.
Quick 10-minute walk.
TRY500 (family), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a casual dinner at your hotel, weary but fulfilled after a great day.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Beach Day in Ölüdeniz

Ölüdeniz, Turkey

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a fresh breakfast before heading to the beach.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Ölüdeniz

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to the beautiful Ölüdeniz Beach.
Follow GPS to Ölüdeniz.
N/A, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Olive Tree Restaurant

Savor delicious Mediterranean dishes with stunning views of the beach.
Just steps from the beach.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Relax on Ölüdeniz Beach

Spend your afternoon enjoying the sun, swimming, or trying out water sports.
Beach access is nearby.
FREE, 5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at B Café

End your beach day with a relaxing dinner at B Café, offering a Chill vibe and great views.
On the beachfront.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: City Exploration in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting out for the day.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Antalya

Enjoy the picturesque 1.5-hour drive to the coastal city of Antalya.
Use GPS to navigate.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kaleiçi (Old Town)

Wander through the beautiful streets of the historic district, stopping to admire the architecture.
Short walk to Kaleiçi from parking area.
FREE, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at 7 Mehmet Restaurant

Treat yourselves to a meal showcasing local barbecue and Turkish dishes.
10-minute walk from Kaleiçi.
TRY350, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Lara Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun at Lara Beach, a family-friendly favorite.
20-minute drive from lunch.
FREE, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Seraser Fine Dining

Enjoy a memorable dining experience at this gourmet restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere.
20-minute drive from beach.
TRY600, 2 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Discovery in Konya

Konya, Turkey

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before the journey.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Konya

Travel to Konya, home of the Whirling Dervishes and rich in history, a 3-hour journey.
Follow GPS prompts.
N/A, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Doyuran Restaurant

Savor delicious local dishes, famous for its kebabs and lahmacun.
Central location in Konya, make for an easy stop.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Mevlana Museum

Immerse your family in the culture of Konya by exploring the fascinating life of Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes.
Located a 10-minute drive from lunch.
TRY200 (family), 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Alaeddin Hill

Stroll through the park and enjoy the view of the city from the hilltop—a perfect spot for family photos.
15-minute drive from the museum.
FREE, 1 hour

5:30PM

Drive back to Istanbul

Begin your journey back to the bustling metropolis of Istanbul.
Approx. 3.5-hour drive.
N/A, 3.5 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at İskender Kebap

Feast on delicious İskender kebabs in Istanbul to celebrate the end of the trip.
5-minute drive from hotel.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Departure Day

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A low-key breakfast to prepare for your journey back home.
N/A (at hotel).
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-out of Hotel

Make sure that all bags are packed and check out of your accommodation.
N/A (at hotel).
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Istanbul Grand Bazaar

Pick up souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic market before departing.
Drive 20 minutes to the bazaar.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Grab a final meal at this famous spot within the bazaar, serving authentic Turkish dishes.
Inside the Grand Bazaar.
TRY300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your flight home, filled with wonderful memories from your family adventure in Turkey.
Drive 30 minutes to the airport.
N/A, 1 hour
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