Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary in Istanbul with Kids

Day 1: Historic Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on April 27, 2025

9:30am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Enjoy traditional Turkish breakfast and delicious sweets in an iconic historic patisserie, perfect to energize the family for a day of sightseeing.

TRY 100, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that excites kids and adults alike with its history as a basilica and mosque.

TRY 300 per adult, children under 12 free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Blue Mosque

Marvel at the striking blue tiles and grand architecture suitable for a quick photo stop and cultural immersion in the Old City.

Free, 30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Taste traditional Turkish meatballs; a family-friendly menu with quick service ideal for kids.

TRY 150, 1h0m

2:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Visit the opulent palace with beautiful gardens and fascinating exhibits about Ottoman history that will captivate children’s imagination.

TRY 400 per adult, children under 12 free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Gülhane Park

Relax and let the kids play in this lovely park right by Topkapi, a peaceful spot with playgrounds and scenic views.

Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Kahraman

Enjoy fresh seafood by the Bosphorus with a family-friendly atmosphere and great views.

TRY 250, 1h30m

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Day 2: Bosphorus and Waterfront

Istanbul, Turkey on April 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The House Café Ortaköy

Rich Turkish breakfast in the lively Ortaköy area, great for a scenic start near the water.

TRY 120, 1h0m

9:30am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a family-friendly 2-hour boat trip up the Bosphorus, seeing Istanbul’s skyline, palaces, and bridges from the water.

TRY 150 per person, 2h0m

12:00pm

Ortaköy Square

Explore this lively square famous for street vendors selling kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes) and waffles - perfect snacks for kids.

Free to browse, snacks vary, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at House Café Ortaköy

Casual lunch spot with kid-friendly options and views of the Bosphorus Bridge.

TRY 150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Istanbul Aquarium

One of the largest thematic aquariums in the world, perfect for children to discover sea life through interactive exhibits and tunnels.

TRY 250 adults, TRY 150 children, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Kiyi Restaurant

Seafood dinner overlooking the Marmara Sea, offering a relaxing end to your day with kid-friendly menu options.

TRY 250, 1h30m

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Day 3: Fun and Beach Day

Istanbul, Turkey on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Enjoy a hearty and healthy breakfast with views of the Bosphorus, ideal for families starting an active day.

TRY 130, 1h0m

9:30am

Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Explore this industrial museum featuring transport, scientific instruments, and interactive exhibits especially engaging for kids.

TRY 150 adults, TRY 75 children, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Fıccın

Traditional Turkish cuisine with family-friendly dishes, great for sampling regional flavours.

TRY 150, 1h0m

2:00pm

Florya Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Florya Beach where kids can play on the sand and enjoy shallow waters.

Free entry, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Florya Balıkçısı

Experience fabulous seafood right by the beach for a perfect family dining experience.

TRY 250, 1h30m

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Day 4: Interactive Museums

Istanbul, Turkey on April 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Çınaraltı Tea Garden

Traditional Turkish breakfast outdoors overlooking the Bosphorus, great for a relaxed start to the day.

TRY 100, 1h0m

9:30am

Rahmi M. Koç Museum (continued if needed) or revisit favourite exhibits

Explore additional hands-on activities and vintage vehicles, perfect for curious minds.

If revisiting, existing ticket applies, 1h30m

11:30am

Miniatürk

Visit this miniature park with scaled models of Turkey's landmarks, a fun and educational experience for children.

TRY 50 per person, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Park Miniatürk Café

Light and quick Turkish meals close by for energetic families.

TRY 100, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Eyüp District

Wander this historic neighbourhood and visit Pierre Loti Café via a funicular ride; spectacular views of the Golden Horn await.

Funicular TRY 15 per person, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Eyüp Sultan Restaurant

Savour traditional dishes in a family-friendly setting within this historic district.

TRY 150, 1h30m

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Day 5: Princes’ Islands Day

Istanbul, Turkey on May 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Start early with a simple Turkish breakfast to prepare for the island excursion.

TRY 80, 1h0m

8:30am

Ferry to Büyükada (Princes’ Island)

Take a scenic ferry ride, a favourite with kids, to the largest of the Princes’ Islands, free from motor vehicles.

TRY 50 per person one-way, 1h0m

10:00am

Bike or horse-drawn carriage tour on Büyükada

Explore island nature and quaint streets in a fun way for children; bikes can be rented or take a carriage ride.

TRY 150 for carriage tour or bike rental, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Milto Restaurant

Enjoy freshly caught fish and Mediterranean dishes right on the waterfront.

TRY 200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Beach Time or Picnic

Relax by the beach or enjoy a picnic in shaded parks, perfect for kids to play and unwind.

Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return Ferry to Istanbul

Enjoy the return boat trip during sunset with lovely views of the city skyline.

Included in earlier fare, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Saray Muhallebicisi

Have a casual dinner with Turkish desserts that children will love, such as rice pudding and baklava.

TRY 120, 1h0m

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Day 6: Modern Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on May 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Traditional Kurdish-style breakfast with an extensive variety - great to please all family tastes.

TRY 130, 1h0m

9:30am

Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Discover contemporary Turkish and international art in a spacious setting; some interactive exhibits keep children engaged.

TRY 150 adults, children under 12 free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Walk along Karaköy and Galata Bridge

Enjoy street performances, freshly baked simit, and views of the Golden Horn; the area is vibrant and kid-friendly.

Free, costs for snacks as desired, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Namlı Gurme

An inviting deli and cafe offering a wide selection of light Turkish dishes ideal for families.

TRY 150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Taksim Square & Istiklal Avenue

Explore the heart of modern Istanbul, including kid-friendly shops, street musicians, and the nostalgic tram ride.

Free to explore, tram TRY 5, 2h0m

5:00pm

Coffee and snacks at Mado

Enjoy Turkish ice cream (dondurma) and desserts, a favourite way to end any day with children.

TRY 80, 1h0m

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Experience a fine dining atmosphere with a variety of Turkish mezes, suitable for adventurous and picky eaters alike.

TRY 300, 1h30m

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