7-Day Family-Friendly Adventure: Exploring Istanbul and Cappadocia

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with a wide variety of cheeses, olives, honey, and fresh bread, perfect to start a family day.

TRY120, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore this magnificent former church and mosque, now a museum, famous for its stunning architecture and rich history. Family-friendly and educational.

TRY100, 1h30m

11:30am

Blue Mosque

Visit this iconic mosque known for its beautiful blue tiles and grand design, a calm and fascinating place for children and adults alike.

Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Taste delicious and kid-friendly Turkish meatballs and other traditional dishes in the heart of historic Istanbul.

TRY90, 1h

2:30pm

Basilica Cistern

Explore this eerie ancient underground water reservoir with captivating columns and history, very intriguing for kids.

TRY60, 1h

4:00pm

Walk through the Grand Bazaar

Experience one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, perfect for souvenir shopping and enjoying vibrant atmosphere.

Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Taste delicious Turkish kebabs with panoramic views over the Golden Horn, ideal for families wanting authentic flavors.

TRY150, 1h30m

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Day 2: Istanbul Modern & Parks

Istanbul, Turkey on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Galata Kitchen

Enjoy a variety of fresh pastries and local breakfast delicacies in a cozy setting near Galata Tower.

TRY80, 1h

9:30am

Visit Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Engage the family with contemporary Turkish art and interactive exhibits suitable for children.

TRY120, 2h

12:00pm

Walk and picnic at Gulhane Park

Relax in this historic park next to Topkapi Palace, a perfect spot for kids to run and enjoy nature.

Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Tarihi Fes Cafe

A family-friendly spot offering a mix of Turkish and international cuisine near Sultanahmet.

TRY90, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent home of Ottoman sultans with family-friendly audio guides and lush gardens to explore.

TRY150, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Çiya Sofrası

Enjoy authentic Anatolian dishes with flavors from all over Turkey in a casual, family-friendly environment.

TRY130, 1h30m

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Day 3: Bosporus & Asian Side

Istanbul, Turkey on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Start your day with scenic views along the Bosporus and fresh bakery items in this stylish cafe.

TRY90, 1h

9:30am

Bosporus Cruise

Take a family-friendly boat tour along the Bosporus Strait, enjoying views of Istanbul’s skyline and historic landmarks.

TRY80, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Çınaraltı Tea Garden, Üsküdar

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with traditional Turkish tea and snacks by the water on the Asian side.

TRY70, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Maiden's Tower

Visit this small iconic tower on a islet, accessible by a short boat ride, with history and panoramic views, great for families.

TRY50, 1h30m

3:30pm

Stroll in Kadikoy Market

Discover the lively market streets with fresh food, shops, and family-friendly cafes on Istanbul’s Asian side.

Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Moda Teras

Dine with your family on a terrace offering panoramic views of the sea and city sunset, serving diverse Turkish and international dishes.

TRY140, 1h30m

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Day 4: Istanbul to Cappadocia

Istanbul to Cappadocia, Turkey on May 8, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a convenient hotel breakfast before departure to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia.

Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia

Fly from Istanbul to Nevşehir or Kayseri airport, approximately 1h 30m flight time, suitable for families to save travel time.

TRY450 per person approx., 1h30m

11:00am

Transfer to Hotel in Göreme

Arrival and check-in at family-friendly cave hotel offering unique accommodations ideal for kids and adults.

Included, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Taste local Cappadocian dishes in an authentic and cozy cave setting perfect for family dining.

TRY120, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Visit UNESCO World Heritage site with fascinating rock-cut churches, frescoes, and open spaces safe and interesting for children.

TRY100, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel and sunset viewing

Enjoy time at the hotel and take in the stunning Cappadocia sunset, great for the whole family to unwind.

Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Savor delicious local dishes in an atmospheric cave restaurant with family-friendly options.

TRY150, 1h30m

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Day 5: Hot Air Balloon & Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey on May 9, 2025

5:00am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a magical sunrise balloon ride over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, a memorable and safe family activity with prior booking recommended.

TRY2500 per person, 3h

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Rest and enjoy hearty breakfast after early morning adventure.

Included, 1h

10:30am

Visit Pasabag (Monks Valley)

See the stunning fairy chimneys and unique rock formations; an easy walk suitable for children with lots to explore and photograph.

TRY50, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ziggys Café

Enjoy varied menu with options for kids along with Turkish specialties and beautiful views.

TRY110, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)

Discover whimsical rock shapes resembling animals and objects; perfect for children’s imagination and family photos.

Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Avanos Pottery Workshop

Participate in a family-friendly pottery workshop where kids can try making pottery and learn local crafts.

TRY75, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional slow-cooked local meals in a historic setting, friendly for families with kids.

TRY130, 1h30m

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Day 6: Underground City & Outdoor Fun

Cappadocia, Turkey on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a fresh breakfast offered by the hotel before an exciting day.

Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kaymakli Underground City

Explore one of the largest underground cities in Cappadocia, fascinating for kids with its tunnels, rooms, and history.

TRY90, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at local restaurant in Kaymakli

Enjoy traditional Turkish lunch with local ingredients in a relaxed family-friendly environment.

TRY100, 1h

1:30pm

Hiking in Ihlara Valley

Take a gentle hike along the Melendiz river through a beautiful canyon with picnic spots and rock churches along the way, great for family nature fun.

TRY50, 3h