If you are looking for the best family holiday destinations in Turkey, you are at the right place.
Traveling with kids can become a bit overwhelming at times. Therefore, it is important to have your itinerary ready and well-thought-out, so you can travel stress-free and enjoy your family time in Turkey.
Turkey is a country of so many stunning places to see and exciting things to do.
The Best Family Holiday Destinations in Turkey
The best holiday destinations in Turkey for families combine the country’s spectacular coastline, glorious history, and exciting opportunities for outdoor recreation.
So, let’s explore some of them.
Istanbul
The city that links Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus strait is one of the best holiday destinations in Turkey for families. It is one of the most-visited cities in Europe.
And due to its position, Istanbul has attracted many civilizations over the centuries. Once the final stop on the famous Silk Road between Asia and Europe, Istanbul still holds physical reminders of ancient civilizations.
In Istanbul’s Old City, you can find pieces of history that reflect the influences of the Greek, Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman empires that ruled there.
Don’t miss visiting the iconic Byzantine Church Hagia Sophia, now revised into a mosque again. You will be amazed by its splendid 6th-century dome, lavish gardens, and majestic Christian mosaics.
In addition, enjoy an impressive array of museums and galleries that can be found all over the city. Visit Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist spots, and take remarkable family photos at the Bosphorus Bridge straddling West and East.
Finally, try local cuisine in one of many city’s restaurants with delicious local specialties and an authentic atmosphere.
The Underground Cities of Cappadocia
If you ask where is best for a family holiday in Turkey, one of the answers will likely be “Cappadocia.”
This ancient district in east-central Anatolia is made of fairytale volcanic rock formations formed over the ages. Both the history and landscape of Cappadocia are breathtaking, so it doesn’t surprise that many consider Cappadocia one of the best places to go in Turkey for families.
You will discover ancient houses and more than 200 underground cities in the Cappadocia region, some of them dating back to 3000 BC. In addition, you can visit churches in these spectacular caves, carved in rocks by Hittites, and later Christians, thousands of years ago.
Today, some caves are turned into hotels, offering unique accommodation for a family vacation in Turkey.
However, one of the most memorable experiences in this region is a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, a unique opportunity for the whole family to enjoy astonishing sunrise or sunset.
The History of Çanakkale Region
Located on the Dardanelles Strait, Canakkale is a city in the westernmost part of Turkey. This city is one of Turkey’s best family holiday destinations for those who want to learn about the country’s history.
Namely, Canakkale is home to the archeological site of ancient Troy, located some 28 km southwest of the city.
Furthermore, the city is also a gateway to the Gallipoli Worl War One battlefields, located on the Gallipoli peninsula.
If you happen to visit Canakkale around April 25, you will have the opportunity to attend the yearly Anzac Day remembrance parade in honor of those who fell there during the disturbing battles of WWII.
Best Family Holiday in Turkey on The Turkish Riviera
One of Turkey’s best places for families is the Turkish Riviera that stretches from the northern Aegean round to the Antalya region.
You can rent a boat and sail to Bodrum, Kusadasi, Fethiye, Antalya, and many other coastal cities, with some of the best holiday resorts in Turkey for families. The sailing trip can also include trips to the Greek islands.
Make a stop at Kusadasi, a famous cruise ship stopping point, and explore the city’s beaches, shopping scene, and nightlife. Also, don’t miss to visit the nearby ancient ruins of Ephesus metropolis (Europe’s most complete ancient city) and the Virgin Mary house.
Sail to Bodrum and enjoy its stunning beaches and luxury resorts. Visit the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and spend a family afternoon at the Bodrum Castle or Castle of St. Peter, located on the small rocky peninsula in the hub of Bodrum marina.
If you go to Antalya, don’t miss the Düden River waterfalls. There are two of them, Upper and Lower Düden Waterfall, each offering pretty different experiences.
Turkey is the country that will captivate you with its timeless blend of cultures, history, and landscapes. Whichever destination you choose for your family holiday in Turkey, it will be a lifetime experience.