Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Turkey
As a native of Turkey, I’ve explored almost every corner of this beautiful country. There really is so much to do! You and your family can have an unforgettable holiday without breaking the bank.
1) Istanbul
Istanbul is a huge city and each part of it feels like its own unique region. However, this city offers some of the best activities for families to enjoy together. Some of the most popular family activities in Istanbul include visiting attractions like the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Istanbul Aquarium, Vialand Theme Park, and Miniatürk. Additionally, a boat trip to the Istanbul islands tour can be both enjoyable and relaxing.
2) Bursa
Bursa is a wonderful city about 2 hours away from Istanbul. In Bursa, there are many great activities that you can do with your family, such as going to Uludag mountain with the cable car, exploring adventure parks. If you want to get to know Bursa more closely, you can visit my Bursa travel guide article.
When you visit Bursa, I highly recommend taking your family to Cumalıkızık Village, which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a beautiful and historic place to explore together!
3) Eskisehir
If you’ve traveled from Istanbul to Bursa, you can also visit Eskişehir, which is just a two-hour drive away. One of the city’s most popular family-friendly spots is Sazova Park, home to a variety of attractions including the Fairytale Castle, a lake, a Science Experiment Center, a Zoo, and the Colorful Children’s Village. There are many interactive play areas and educational activities for kids. Families can enjoy walking through the park, strolling around the lake, and exploring the enchanting atmosphere of the castle.
4) Cappadocia
Cappadocia is not the name of a city in Turkey, but rather a region in Central Anatolia. There are so many incredible places to explore in this amazing area that one day won’t be enough to see it all. However, if you’re planning a day trip, you can take a family hot air balloon ride for a unique experience. I highly recommend reading all my articles about Cappadocia for more detailed information.
5) Antalya
Antalya, with its warm climate and wide beaches, is a fantastic destination for a family vacation. It offers a holiday full of water parks, beaches, and fun activities for children. Popular places to explore with your family include Lara Beach, the Antalya Aquarium, Düden Waterfalls, Manavgat Waterfalls, and Antalya Safari Park.
Fun Activities: Enjoy the sea at Lara Beach, visit the Antalya Aquarium, and observe wildlife at the Safari Park.
6) Cesme (Çeşme)
Cesme is a fantastic destination for families, with its wide beaches and peaceful atmosphere. You can stroll through the charming streets of Alacati, take a walk along Cesme Marina, and have a fun time at Cesme Aquapark. There are also plenty of hotels and restaurants where families can relax and enjoy their time. I highly recommend taking a dip at Ilıca Beach – the crystal-clear water will make you feel like you’re in the Maldives.
7) Safranbolu
Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers families a unique historical and cultural experience. You can explore the charming Safranbolu Houses, visit Hıdırlık Hill for stunning views, and discover the traditional Yörük Village.
Fun Activities: Take a walk through Safranbolu’s historic streets to uncover Ottoman-era architecture and shop for handmade crafts that showcase the region’s rich traditions.
8) Trabzon
Trabzon is a perfect vacation spot for families, with its lush nature and historic sites. Places like Uzungöl, Sümela Monastery, and Atatürk Mansion offer a beautiful mix of natural beauty and rich history.
From Trabzon, you can also take a day trip to Batumi by crossing the Georgian border. It’s a great way to take the family to a different city and experience a new culture.
9) Fethiye
Fethiye is a perfect family holiday paradise with its stunning natural beauty and unique beaches. Places like Ölüdeniz, Kayaköy and the ancient city of Tlos offer the perfect blend of nature and history. Exploring Fethiye’s beautiful coves, visiting the Butterfly Valley in Ölüdeniz and trying your hand at paragliding are just some of the amazing activities that will make your family holiday unforgettable.
10) Şirince
One of the things that makes Şirince unique among tourist destinations is its wine culture. As a former Greek village, it has a long history of winemaking. Some of the best things to do with your family here include strolling through the picturesque streets, visiting St John the Baptist Church, tasting the famous elderberry syrup, exploring the Theatre Madrasah and much more.