9-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary Through Turkey: Istanbul, Antalya, and Thermal Baths

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh cucumbers, olives, cheeses, and jam.
Head to the historic Sultanahmet area.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that has served various roles through history.
Walk to Hagia Sophia, you'll only need a few minutes.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through the vibrant stalls of the Grand Bazaar, perfect for family shopping and souvenir hunting!
Short walk from Hagia Sophia.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Turkish meal at this charming restaurant known for its delightful atmosphere and views.
Located within the Spice Bazaar, just a quick stroll away.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Basilica Cistern Tour

Descend into the underground Basilica Cistern and discover its mystical atmosphere filled with ancient history.
Just a few blocks from the restaurant.
TRY160, 1 hour

3:30PM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Experience Istanbul from the water with a short cruise on the Bosphorus, great for relaxing as a family.
Board at Eminönü docks, approximately a 15-minute walk.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Galata Tower Restaurant

Grab dinner while enjoying stunning views of the Istanbul skyline from Galata Tower.
Head back in the car towards Galata Tower, which is a 15-minute drive.
TRY400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mangerie

Indulge in a breakfast buffet with a range of Turkish and international dishes.
Reachable by a 15-minute drive to Bebek.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Topkapi Palace Tour

Explore the opulent rooms of Topkapi Palace and learn about Ottoman history in fun interactive ways.
Drive back to Sultanahmet (20 min).
TRY300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Archaeological Museums

Discover fascinating artifacts in one of the world's greatest archaeological museums.
It's within walking distance from Topkapi Palace.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Khorasani Restaurant

Savor traditional Turkish dishes while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere.
Back to near the Topkapi Palace.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Sultanahmet Square

Relax at Sultanahmet Square, enjoying the gardens and the views of the iconic Blue Mosque.
A couple-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Step inside the splendid Blue Mosque to admire its intricate tile work.
Just a short walk from Sultanahmet Square.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Get ready for Dinner at Doy Doy Restaurant

Enjoy Turkish and international cuisine with a view of the Bosphorus.
Around 10-minute drive back to Taksim.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at your Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your road trip.
In the hotel premises.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Antalya

Set off for the beautiful coastal city of Antalya, famous for its turquoise waters.
Drive approximately 7 hours to Antalya.
Cost of fuel, 7 hours

3:00PM

Check-in to hotel and rest

Relax at your family-friendly hotel and enjoy the amenities.
Hotel in Antalya.
Included with stay, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Lara Beach

Spend the late afternoon at Lara Beach, great for children to play in the sand.
A quick 15-minute drive from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at 7 Mehmet

Dine at a top-rated restaurant that serves local delicacies, perfect for families.
About 20 minutes from Lara Beach.
TRY400, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your adventures begin.
In the hotel kitchen.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Antalya Aquarium

Experience a world of marine life and interactive exhibits at this fantastic family-friendly aquarium.
A 10-minute drive from your hotel.
TRY150, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Town Kaleiçi

Stroll through the charming streets of Kaleiçi, with its shops and beautiful architecture.
A short drive or taxi from the aquarium.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sıkı Makarna

Enjoy homemade pasta at this cozy family-friendly restaurant nestled in Kaleiçi.
Within the old town, a short walk.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Hadrian's Gate

Marvel at this ancient monument that marks the entrance to the old town.
Easily accessible within Kaleiçi.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Take a Boat Tour

Join a family-friendly boat tour along the stunning coast of Antalya.
Reserved in advance; boats depart from the harbor.
TRY300, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Mehtap Restaurant

End the day with a delightful dinner overlooking the marina with fresh seafood options.
A short ride back to the marina.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation Day

Antalya, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
In the hotel kitchen.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Konyaaltı Beach

A perfect way to enjoy the sun and sand while the kids have fun in the water.
A 20-minute drive from your hotel.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at 360 Antalya

Savor lunch with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, with child-friendly options available.
Head back to the beach area.
TRY350, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Ice Cream at Miguel's Gelato

Treat the family to some delightful gelato – a hit for both adults and kids alike.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
TRY100, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Explore Antalya's parks

Visit one of Antalya's beautiful parks for outdoor fun and relaxation.
Easily accessible from the beach area.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Tike Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish kebabs and other grilled dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
A short drive from the park.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Travel to Thermal Baths

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading out on the road again.
In the hotel kitchen.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Pamukkale

Travel to the stunning thermal baths of Pamukkale, known for its white travertine terraces.
Approximately a 3-hour drive from Antalya.
Cost of fuel, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in to hotel and rest

Check into your hotel near Pamukkale for some relaxation.
Pamukkale area.
Included with stay, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kayas Restaurant

Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional Turkish cuisine.
Located a short drive from the hotel.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Spend the afternoon soaking in the rejuvenating and picturesque thermal waters of Pamukkale.
Located just a few minutes away from the restaurant.
TRY400, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at White House Restaurant

Enjoy fresh, local dishes in a family-friendly environment.
Back to the hotel area.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: More Relaxation at Thermal Baths

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy another delicious breakfast to fuel your day.
In the hotel kitchen.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hierapolis Ancient City

Discover the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, located just above the thermal pools.
A short walk from the thermal pools.
TRY150, 2 hours

11:00AM

Soak in the Cleopatra Pools

Enjoy the warm waters of the famous Cleopatra Pool while surrounded by ancient columns.
Back to the thermal pools.
TRY300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Venus Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch with a range of options catering to families.
Near the entrance to Pamukkale.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Terraces of Pamukkale

Take family photos and walk along the stunning terraces of Pamukkale.
Just outside the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at La Casa Restaurant

Savor Turkish and Mediterranean dishes at this inviting eatery.
Back towards your hotel.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast and ready yourself for the drive back.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive back to Istanbul

Enjoy the scenic drive back to the vibrant city of Istanbul!
Approximately a 10-hour drive.
Cost of fuel, 10 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nil Cafe Restaurant

Relax and enjoy your last evening meal in Istanbul with a homely ambiance.
In your hotel area.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Departure from Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Final Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Turkey and savor the memories of this beautiful journey.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Prepare for Departure

Check out and pack for the journey home.
At the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Airport

Head to Istanbul Airport for your flight back home.
A short drive from the hotel.
Cost of fuel, 1 hour
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