Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary in İstanbul, Turkey - November 2024

Day 1: Explore History

İstanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring cheese, olives, and fresh bread at Van Kahvalti Evi.
Located in the Cihangir district, easily accessible via tram.
TRY 150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural marvel with a rich history.
It's a short 15-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
TRY 200, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy delicious meatballs and a traditional Turkish lunch at this iconic eatery.
Located nearby Hagia Sophia.
TRY 100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Wander through Topkapi Palace, where you can learn about the extravagant lifestyle of Ottoman sultans and view the exquisite treasures.
A 10-minute walk from lunch.
TRY 300, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through Gülhane Park

Take a relaxing stroll through the beautiful gardens of Gülhane Park, perfect for the kids to run around.
Adjacent to Topkapi Palace.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Doy Doy Restaurant

Savor a mix of traditional Turkish dishes and enjoy the view of the city as the sun sets.
A short walk from Gülhane Park.
TRY 200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Experiences

İstanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Şehzade Cağ Kebap

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local pastries and fresh tea to energize for the day.
You can reach this place via tram.
TRY 150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Dive into the vibrant Grand Bazaar for a shopping experience filled with handicrafts and souvenirs.
A 15-minute walk from breakfast.
Free to enter; costs depend on purchases., 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Taksim Square

Grab a quick lunch at the street food stalls or cafes around Taksim Square, sampling local kebabs or simit.
Accessible via tram from the Bazaar.
TRY 100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Marvel at the elegance of Dolmabahçe Palace, showcasing the wealth of the last Ottoman sultans.
Take the tram to Kabataş and walk for 10 minutes.
TRY 300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy stunning views along the Bosphorus Strait, seeing both the European and Asian sides of İstanbul.
Board the cruise at Eminönü, a short taxi ride.
TRY 250, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Conclude the day with a family dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its delicious kebabs and stunning views of the Galata Bridge.
Located not far from the Eminönü port.
TRY 250, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Family Fun Day

İstanbul, Turkey

8:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Edebiyat

Enjoy a quiet breakfast with pastries and simit in the cozy atmosphere of Café Edebiyat.
A short walk from your accommodation.
TRY 120, 1 hour

10:00AM

Head to Miniatürk

Visit Miniatürk, a miniature park that showcases the architectural treasures of Turkey in a fun and educational way for the family.
Take a taxi or tram towards the Golden Horn.
TRY 200, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Galleria Istanbul

Enjoy an array of dining options in Galleria Istanbul mall, perfect for family preferences.
It's nearby Miniatürk.
TRY 150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit İstanbul Aquarium

Explore the fascinating world of the underwater at one of the largest aquariums in the world.
From Galleria, take a taxi (15 mins).
TRY 280, 2 hours

4:30PM

Fun at Aqua Florya

Spend some fun time at Aqua Florya, which often has entertainment for children and great shopping options.
Right next to the aquarium.
Free (shopping and entertainment may vary)., 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Koço Restaurant

Wrap up the day with authentic Turkish cuisine at Koço, known for its delicious mezzes and warm ambiance.
Take a taxi back towards central İstanbul.
TRY 200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Enjoy Leisure

İstanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mangerie

Have a leisurely breakfast at Mangerie, a lovely café with a panoramic view of the Bosphorus.
Located in Bebek, accessible by taxi.
TRY 180, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Walk along the Bosphorus

Take a stroll along the Bosphorus promenade, soaking in the beautiful scenery.
The walk starts right after breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Çamlıca Hill

Ascend to Çamlıca Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Take a taxi to Çamlıca Hill.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Çamlıca Hill Restaurant

Enjoy a buffet lunch at the hilltop restaurant with beautiful views.
In the same vicinity of where you visit.
TRY 250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Emirgan Park

Spend your afternoon at Emirgan Park, perfect for a family picnic with playgrounds available for kids.
Easily reachable by taxi from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kiva Restaurant

End the trip with a delicious dinner at Kiva, known for its warm atmosphere and tasty dishes.
Take a cab back towards the central area of İstanbul.
TRY 200, 1.5 hours
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