14-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Greece and Turkey

Day 1: Discover Athens

Athens, Greece

9:00AM

Visit the Acropolis

Start your adventure at the majestic Acropolis, where ancient history comes alive among the ruins with stunning views over Athens.
Walk from your hotel or take a short taxi ride to the Acropolis.
EUR 20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kuzina

Enjoy a family-friendly meal at Kuzina, offering delicious Greek dishes with a fantastic view of the Acropolis.
A 10-minute walk from the Acropolis.
EUR 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Plaka Neighborhood

Stroll through the charming Plaka district, filled with shops, cafés, and opportunities to learn about Greek culture with your family.
A 5-minute walk from Kuzina.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taverna Tou Psiri

Savor authentic Greek taverna dishes in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for evening family bonding.
A 15-minute walk from Plaka.
EUR 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Athens

Athens, Greece

9:00AM

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

Explore stunning relics of ancient Greece, offering an enriching experience with exhibits that capture the imagination of both young and old.
15-minute taxi ride from the hotel.
EUR 12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Avocado

After some exploration, recharge at Avocado, known for its healthy, kid-friendly menu.
10-minute walk from the museum.
EUR 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Walk Through the National Garden

Let the kids enjoy some playtime as you wander the peaceful pathways of the National Garden, a beautiful oasis in the city.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Oineas Restaurant

Join in for a dinner at Oineas, offering traditional Greek cuisine with a welcoming family atmosphere.
A 20-minute walk or short taxi ride.
EUR 70, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Santorini

Athens, Greece to Santorini, Greece

7:00AM

Ferry to Santorini

Catch an early ferry from Athens to the enchanting island of Santorini, known for its stunning sunsets and picturesque landscapes.
Ferry from Piraeus port (45-minute taxi from hotel).
EUR 40, 6 hours including travel time and check-in

1:00PM

Lunch at Ammoudi Fish Tavern

Savor fresh seafood at the popular Ammoudi Fish Tavern as you enjoy scenic views of the harbor.
A short walk from the ferry port.
EUR 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Oia

Wander through the beautiful village of Oia, known for its iconic sunsets and charming streets, perfect for family photos.
15-minute taxi ride from Ammoudi.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at 1800

Enjoy a delicious family dinner at 1800, a highly-rated restaurant with stunning views over the caldera.
A quick walk in Oia.
EUR 100, 2 hours
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Day 4: Relax in Santorini

Santorini, Greece

9:00AM

Beach Day at Kamari

Spend a fun-filled day at Kamari Beach, known for its black sand and family-friendly atmosphere.
A 30-minute taxi ride from Oia.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Beach Bar

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the beachside snack bars offering a variety of kid-friendly options.
On-site at Kamari Beach.
EUR 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a fascinating sight where families can learn about the Minoan civilization.
A 15-minute taxi from Kamari Beach.
EUR 12, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Athenian House

Dine at The Athenian House, known for its modern twist on Greek classics, perfect for families looking to savor local flavors.
A 20-minute taxi back to Oia.
EUR 80, 2 hours
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Day 5: Santorini to Crete

Santorini, Greece to Crete, Greece

8:00AM

Ferry to Crete

Take a morning ferry from Santorini to Crete, an island rich with history and vibrant culture.
Ferry departure from Santorini port.
EUR 30, 3 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Taverna Koutouloufakis

Kick off your Crete experience with a delightful lunch at this local tavern known for its traditional Cretan dishes.
Located near Heraklion port.
EUR 60, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Knossos Palace

Explore the ruins of Knossos Palace, where the myth of the Minotaur originated, offering educational fun for the kids.
A short taxi ride from the restaurant.
EUR 15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check in at Hotel

Check in and settle down at the family-friendly hotel before exploring the local area.
A taxi ride from Knossos.
EUR 100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Taverna To Thalassino

Enjoy dinner by the seaside, where the kids can play on the beach while you savor fresh seafood.
A short walk from the hotel.
EUR 70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Adventure in Crete

Crete, Greece

8:00AM

Day Trip to Elafonissi Beach

Experience a fun day at Elafonissi Beach, famous for its pink sands and shallow waters, perfect for kids.
Coach tour from hotel (book in advance).
EUR 50, 8 hours including travel time

12:00PM

Beach Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, allowing the family to relax and play in the sea.
On-site.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Head Back to Hotel

After a day of sun and fun, return to your hotel to recharge.
Coach ride back.
Included in the initial tour cost., 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Avli

This charming restaurant in Rethymno offers delightful Cretan cuisine emphasizing fresh local ingredients.
A taxi from your hotel.
EUR 80, 2 hours
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Day 7: Fly to Istanbul

Crete, Greece to Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Check Out and Flight to Istanbul

Check out from your hotel and take a direct flight to Istanbul, a city of rich history and vibrant culture.
Taxi to Heraklion Airport, flight to Istanbul.
EUR 150, 4 hours including airport time

1:00PM

Lunch at Doy Doy Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious lunch at Doy Doy, known for its lovely view of the city and hearty Turkish dishes.
Taxi from the airport.
TRY 300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Hagia Sophia

Explore the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, a symbol of Istanbul with stunning mosaics and history.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
TRY 200, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ziya Şalgam

Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in an inviting atmosphere that caters to families.
A 10-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY 350, 2 hours
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Day 8: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit the Topkapi Palace

Step into the world of sultans as you explore the opulent rooms and gardens of Topkapi Palace.
15-minute taxi ride from hotel.
TRY 200, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Savor classic Turkish kebabs with a view of the Golden Horn at Hamdi, a favorite among families.
5-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY 400, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Wander through the colorful Spice Bazaar, where the vibrant sights and scents will captivate both adults and kids.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus, offering scenic views of Istanbul's skyline.
Return to the waterfront for a boat ride.
TRY 150, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Tarihi Safranbolu Restaurant

Wrap up your day with dinner at Tarihi Safranbolu, a restaurant that offers delightful Turkish dishes perfect for families.
15-minute walk from the cruise docking area.
TRY 350, 2 hours
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Day 9: A Day in Cappadocia

Istanbul, Turkey to Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Morning Flight to Cappadocia

Catch a morning flight to Cappadocia, the land of fairy chimneys and breathtaking landscapes.
Taxi to the airport for a short flight.
TRY 400, 3 hours including airport time

11:00AM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your family-friendly cave hotel, an exciting experience for the kids.
Taxi from the airport.
TRY 200, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine in a traditional setting at Dibek, where families can gather and share a meal together.
Nearby the hotel.
TRY 300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, offering stunning views of the unique landscape.
Book a tour that includes pickup from your hotel.
TRY 1500, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Gather the family for dinner at Seten, known for its delicious local dishes and warm ambiance.
Short taxi ride or walk from hotel.
TRY 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Cappadocia Adventures

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the vivid rock-cut churches and frescoes at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Goreme Open-Air Museum.
Short taxi ride from hotel.
TRY 200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Pasabag Valley

Take a family hike through Pasabag Valley, known for its fairy chimneys and unique rock formations.
20-minute taxi ride from Goreme.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Top Deck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at a cave restaurant that offers a unique dining experience, beloved for its delicious meals.
Return to Goreme town.
TRY 250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Avanos Pottery Workshop

Learn about traditional pottery-making techniques with the family, and kids can even join in making their pottery.
Short drive to Avanos.
TRY 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Urgup Restaurant

Finish your day with dinner at Urgup Restaurant, offering hearty Turkish meals in a warm family-friendly space.
A taxi ride from Avanos.
TRY 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Pamukkale Bound

Cappadocia, Turkey to Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Travel to Pamukkale

Head to Pamukkale, famous for its travertine terraces, for a unique experience that's great for the whole family.
Private transfer or bus ride (approx. 9 hours).
TRY 500, 9 hours

5:00PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into a family-friendly hotel near the travertines, ready for a day of exploration.
On-site.
TRY 150, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Sedir Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Sedir, where your family can unwind while sampling regional dishes.
A short walk from the hotel.
TRY 350, 2 hours
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Day 12: Explore Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Pamukkale Travertines

Discover Pamukkale's stunning travertine terraces and experience a natural wonder where kids can splash around.
Located within walking distance.
TRY 100, 3 hours

11:00AM

Explore Ancient Hierapolis

Wander through the ancient city of Hierapolis, with ruins that are fascinating for kids and adults alike.
Next to the travertines.
TRY 100, 2 hours

2:00PM

Picnic Lunch

Have a family picnic lunch in a nearby park, soaking up the sun and relaxing after your exploration.
On-site.
TRY 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Enjoy the Pool at the Hotel

Let the kids unwind and splash in the hotel's pool for some leisure time.
Back at the hotel.
Free for guests., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Atlantis

Dine at Atlantis for some kid-friendly options and local specialties in a relaxed setting.
A short walk from the hotel.
TRY 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Ephesus Exploration

Pamukkale, Turkey to Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Travel to Ephesus

Head to the ancient city of Ephesus, perfect for exploring history as a family.
Private bus or shuttle (approx. 3.5 hours).
TRY 300, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Acar Restaurant

Stop for a delicious lunch at Acar, where you can savor delicious local cuisine.
Near Ephesus.
TRY 350, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Ephesus Ruins

Wander through the impressive ruins of Ephesus, where kids can learn about ancient civilization and mythology.
A few minutes walk from the restaurant.
TRY 200, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the House of Virgin Mary

Visit this peaceful site where the Virgin Mary is believed to have lived, an inspiring stop for the family.
Short drive from Ephesus.
TRY 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ejder Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Ejder, serving delicious Turkish meals in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Taxi from House of Virgin Mary.
TRY 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Return to Istanbul

Ephesus, Turkey to Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Travel Back to Istanbul

Travel back to Istanbul for your final day in this vibrant city with family memories to cherish.
Private bus or shuttle (approx. 6 hours).
TRY 400, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Doy Doy Restaurant (again)

Reunite with the flavors of Istanbul at Doy Doy, reliving your earlier culinary experience.
A short taxi ride from your arrival bus station.
TRY 400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop at the Grand Bazaar

Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, where bargain hunting becomes a fun family activity amongst the vibrant stalls.
15-minute taxi from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Final Dinner at Pandeli Restaurant

Celebrate your incredible journey over dinner at Pandeli, known for its Turkish delight and historical location.
Take a taxi from the Grand Bazaar.
TRY 450, 2 hours
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