7-Day Family-Friendly Istanbul Adventure: City, Nature, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Discovering Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Simit Sarayı

Start your day with a delicious traditional Turkish breakfast featuring simit (sesame bagels), olives, cheese, and tea.
Walk to the Blue Mosque, just a 10-minute stroll.
TRY100, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Explore the breathtaking Blue Mosque, famous for its stunning architecture and impressive blue tiles.
Short walk to Hagia Sophia.
FREE, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Hagia Sophia

Witness the stunning mosaics and architectural beauty of Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
5-minute walk to the Basilica Cistern.
TRY200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy delicious and authentic kebabs at this renowned Turkish eatery, perfect for families.
Walk back to the hotel for a quick rest.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Basilica Cistern Tour

Take a magical journey underground and explore the ancient cistern with its dimly lit ambiance and Medusa heads.
5-minute walk to Topkapi Palace.
TRY250, 1 hour 30 minutes

5:00PM

Wander Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent history of the Ottoman Empire as you tour the vast gardens and museum.
Short walk to the local market.
TRY300, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Sit down for a fantastic dinner with spectacular views of the Golden Horn and traditional Turkish dishes.
Walk back to your accommodation.
TRY600, 2 hours
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Day 2: Grand Bazaar and Bosphorus

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Galata Pera

Indulge in a delightful breakfast with a view of the Galata Tower.
Take the tram to the Grand Bazaar.
TRY120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shopping at the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar and shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Walk to the Spice Bazaar after shopping.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00PM

Spice Bazaar Visit

Immerse your senses in the rich scents of spices, dried fruits, and sweets in this iconic market.
Take a ferry to Eminönü.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pierremont Galata

Enjoy a seafood lunch while admiring the waterfront view.
Walk to the ferry terminal for the Bosphorus cruise.
TRY350, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a family-friendly ferry cruise along the Bosphorus and witness the beauty of Istanbul from the water.
Return to Eminönü and then head to Taksim Square by tram.
TRY150, 2 hours

5:30PM

Explore Istiklal Street

Stroll along the bustling Istiklal Street, filled with shops, cafes, and the historic tramway.
Find a nearby restaurant for dinner.
FREE, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Dine in style with panoramic views of the city at this rooftop restaurant serving modern Turkish cuisine.
Return to your accommodation.
TRY800, 2.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature and History

Istanbul, Turkey

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet featuring local Turkish favorites.
Prepare for a day trip to Belgrad Forest.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Day Trip to Belgrad Forest

Head out to Belgrad Forest for a nature-filled day with hiking and picnicking opportunities.
Take a taxi or rent a car to the forest.
TRY500 for taxi, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Belgrad Forest

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch surrounded by beautiful nature.
Explore the forest after lunch.
TRY100 for groceries, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking in Belgrad Forest

Take a leisurely hike along the scenic trails and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Return to the city in the late afternoon.
FREE, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Istanbul

Make your way back to the city for an afternoon of relaxation.
Return to the hotel, soak in the ambiance.
TRY500 for taxi, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Visit Miniatürk

Explore the replica structures of Turkey's landmarks in this fun family-friendly park.
Short taxi ride or public transport
TRY150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Aşşk Café

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at this family-friendly café known for its cozy atmosphere.
Return to your hotel.
TRY400, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Sapanca

Sapanca, Turkey

8:00AM

Travel from Istanbul to Sapanca

Take an early morning train to Sapanca, a charming getaway surrounded by nature.
Prepare for a day out in nature.
TRY100 per person, 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Sapanca Lake

Enjoy a lakeside breakfast with local delicacies and fresh air.
Head to the shores of the lake.
TRY200, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lake Activities

Spend the morning walking around the stunning Sapanca Lake and engage in family-friendly activities such as paddle boating.
Walk around the lake.
TRY300, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Kırkpınar Fırın

Savor a delicious meal at this local eatery well-known for its wood-fired flatbreads.
Short walk to more lake activities.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Continue Lake Activities

Take part in varied outdoor activities like cycling around the lake or simply enjoying the scenic views.
Make your way back to town in the evening.
FREE, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sapanca Restaurant

End the day with a relaxed dinner serving fresh local dishes in a cozy setting.
Return to the train station.
TRY400, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Istanbul

Take the return train to Istanbul.
Return ride to the city.
TRY100 per person, 2 hours
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Day 5: Nature at Kartepe

Kartepe, Turkey

7:30AM

Travel to Kartepe

Set out early for Kartepe, a delightful escape for family-friendly outdoor adventures.
Travel by rental car or taxi.
TRY600 for car rental, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kartepe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café before you hit the slopes.
Local eatery at Kartepe.
TRY150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Kartepe ski resort, perfect fun for families.
Rent equipment at the slopes.
TRY600, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Doruk Restaurant

Refuel with a warm lunch featuring local specialities after a fun-filled morning.
Walk to the restaurant.
TRY400, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Continue Skiing or Snow Activities

Continue enjoying the snowy slopes with family-friendly activities.
Return to the ski area.
FREE, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Chalet

Relax with dinner at a cozy chalet offering regional dishes in a beautiful setting.
Return to the city in the late evening.
TRY500, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Return to Istanbul

Head back to Istanbul for a restful overnight stay.
Drive back to Istanbul.
TRY600 for taxi, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Day in Bursa

Bursa, Turkey

8:00AM

Travel to Bursa

Take the early morning ferry to Bursa for exploration.
Ferry from Istanbul to Bursa.
TRY150 per person, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of Bursa's famous cafés.
Café in Bursa.
TRY200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Green Mosque

Explore the stunning architecture of the Green Mosque and its tranquil gardens.
Short walk to the Silk Market.
FREE, 1 hour

12:00PM

Silk Market Experience

Discover the local silk artisans and shop for high-quality silk products.
5-minute walk to Karagöz Museum.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hacıva Mustafa

Savor a delicious traditional Turkish meal at this well-renowned local restaurant.
Possibly walk or take local transport.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Karagöz Museum Visit

Learn about the traditional Turkish shadow play art in Bursa's dedicated museum.
Walk to the bus station.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Ride the Bursa Teleferik (Cable Car)

Enjoy stunning views of Bursa and its surrounding areas from the cable car.
Short transfer to the cable car station.
TRY200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Kebapçı İskender

Finish your day in Bursa with a signature Iskender kebap dinner.
Bursa ferry terminal for the return trip.
TRY500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Istanbul

Travel back to Istanbul for a restful night after an adventurous day.
Ferry back to Istanbul.
TRY150 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relax and Recap

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your accommodation as you prepare for your last day.
Head out for a leisurely stroll.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Dolmabahçe Palace

Explore the opulence of Dolmabahçe Palace with its breathtaking gardens and exquisite interior.
Take the tram from Taksim.
TRY400, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Palace Café

Enjoy a light lunch at this café overlooking the beautiful palace gardens.
Take a short walk after exploring.
TRY300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Ortaköy

Visit the charming Ortaköy neighborhood, known for its seaside views and delicious kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes).
Take a ferry from Kabataş to Ortaköy.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Kumpir Tasting Competition

Have a fun family cooking competition making the best kumpir, and enjoy tasting each other's creations.
Visit any local kumpir shop.
TRY400, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Marmara Hotel

Celebrate the end of your family adventure in Istanbul with a final dinner featuring views of the Bosphorus.
Return to your accommodation afterward.
TRY800, 2 hours

9:00PM

Leisure time or pack

Spend the last night enjoying the city lights or packing for departure.
At your leisure.
FREE, TBD
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