17-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Turkey
Turkey is a playground for families, offering a rare combination of accessible ancient ruins, hospitable culture, and diverse landscapes. This 17-day itinerary is designed for "Epic Journeys" without the stress, focusing on stroller-friendly paths, short travel legs, and plenty of ice-cream breaks to keep the little ones engaged.
We cover the majestic architecture of Istanbul, the magical balloon-filled skies of Cappadocia, and the sun-drenched beaches of Antalya and Kaş. By prioritizing comfortable transport and central stays, you'll experience the best of the country while maintaining a relaxed family rhythm.
Day 1: Istanbul - Arrival & Sultanahmet Intro
Arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST)
Touch down at Istanbul's world-class airport and take a private transfer to your hotel in the historic Sultanahmet district.
Sultanahmet Square
Take a gentle stroll through the main square, located between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, perfect for kids to run around the fountains.
Arasta Bazaar
A quieter, stroller-friendly alternative to the Grand Bazaar, ideal for picking up your first Turkish souvenirs like colorful ceramics.
Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a traditional meal at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Marmara Sea, featuring kid-friendly pide (Turkish pizza).
Day 2: Istanbul - Ottoman Wonders
Topkapi Palace & Harem
Explore the lavish home of the Sultans. The Harem section is fascinating for older kids, while the gardens offer plenty of shade.
Gülhane Park
Located right next to the palace, this is the city's oldest park with wide paved paths perfect for strollers and afternoon picnics.
Hagia Sophia
Marvel at the massive dome and golden mosaics of this architectural masterpiece, which is now an active mosque and free to enter.
Sultanahmet Park Sunset
Watch the lights come on at the Blue Mosque while the kids enjoy a famous Turkish 'Dondurma' (ice cream) from a local street vendor.
Day 3: Istanbul - Bosphorus & Views
Bosphorus Public Ferry
Take a 90-minute cruise from Eminönü. It's a relaxing way to see palaces and fortresses without tiring out small legs.
Galata Tower
Ride the elevator to the top of this medieval stone tower for 360-degree views of the Golden Horn and the city skyline.
Istiklal Street Tram
Hop on the iconic red nostalgic tram that runs down this busy pedestrian street, a hit with children and a rest for parents.
Dinner in Karaköy
Explore the trendy alleys of Karaköy for a variety of international and local dining options in a vibrant atmosphere.
Day 4: Istanbul - Miniature World
Miniatürk
Visit this massive open-air park featuring 1:25 scale models of Turkey's most famous landmarks, a total winner for children.
Pierre Loti Hill
Take the cable car up the hill for a stunning view of the Golden Horn and a traditional cup of tea at the historic café.
Rahmi M. Koç Museum
An industrial museum on the banks of the Golden Horn where kids can climb into old planes, cars, and even a submarine.
Final Istanbul Dinner
Try the famous Balık Ekmek (fish sandwiches) by the Galata Bridge for a truly local culinary experience.
Day 5: Cappadocia - Flying to the Fairyland
Flight to Kayseri
Take a short 1-hour domestic flight from Istanbul to Kayseri or Nevşehir, the gateway to the magical Cappadocia region.
Check into a Cave Hotel
Experience the unique thrill of staying in a room carved directly into the soft volcanic rock in the town of Göreme.
Göreme Town Wander
Walk through the charming town center, which is small and easy to navigate, stopping for local apricots and nuts.
Sunset Point
Walk or take a short taxi to the Lovers' Hill sunset point for your first panoramic view of the 'fairy chimney' rock formations.
Day 6: Cappadocia - Open Air History
Göreme Open Air Museum
Explore UNESCO-listed cave churches with stunning frescoes. The main path is relatively flat and manageable for families.
Monks Valley (Pasabag)
Home to the most striking multi-headed fairy chimneys. Kids can climb inside some of the lower cave dwellings safely.
Devrent (Imagination) Valley
A fun stop where children can spot rock formations that look like animals, including the famous 'camel rock'.
Traditional Anatolian Dinner
Try 'Testi Kebab', a meat and vegetable dish cooked in a sealed clay pot that is broken open at your table.
Day 7: Cappadocia - Underground Adventures
Kaymakli Underground City
Descend into a vast network of tunnels and rooms. Note: Some passages are low, so it's a great adventure for kids but may be tight for very tall adults.
Avanos Pottery Workshop
Visit the town of Avanos and let the kids try their hand at the potter's wheel in a traditional riverside workshop.
Kızılırmak River Walk
Stroll along the Red River in Avanos, where you can feed the ducks and enjoy the local park facilities.
Turkish Night Show
Watch a cultural performance featuring folk dances and whirling dervishes in a traditional cave setting.
Day 8: Cappadocia - Valleys & Vistas
Pigeon Valley Walk
A relatively easy downhill hike from Uçhisar to Göreme, named for the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the cliffs.
Uçhisar Castle
Climb to the highest point in Cappadocia for a breath-taking view of the entire region. The stairs are sturdy and safe for older children.
Leisure Afternoon
Spend some time enjoying your cave hotel's unique features or exploring the local boutiques in Göreme.
Farewell Cappadocia Dinner
Enjoy a meal in one of the many courtyard restaurants, sampling local manti (Turkish ravioli).
Day 9: Antalya - Gateway to the Coast
Flight to Antalya
Fly from Cappadocia to Antalya. Most flights connect through Istanbul, but direct seasonal flights are sometimes available.
Hadrian's Gate
Enter the historic Old Town (Kaleiçi) through this monumental Roman arch built in honor of Emperor Hadrian.
Kaleiçi Wander
Explore the narrow, cobblestoned streets of the old town, filled with Ottoman-era mansions and boutique shops.
Harbor Dinner
Dine at the Old City Marina, watching the pirate ships come in as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Day 10: Antalya - Old Town Charm
Antalya Museum
One of Turkey's best museums, featuring impressive Roman statues. The garden area is a lovely spot for a family break.
Glass Elevator Ride
Take the panoramic glass elevator from the cliffs down to the harbor for a quick and fun transition between city levels.
Karaalioglu Park
A large, stroller-friendly park with playground equipment and spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains across the bay.
Traditional Turkish Bath
Many hammams offer family-friendly sessions where kids can enjoy the bubbles and warmth of the historic baths.
Day 11: Antalya - Sea Life & Sands
Antalya Aquarium
Home to one of the world's largest tunnel aquariums, this is a perfect indoor activity for kids with full stroller accessibility.
Konyaaltı Beach Park
A wide pebble beach with a paved promenade, plenty of cafes, and gentle waves perfect for a family swim.
Aktur Park
Located near the aquarium, this amusement park offers rides for all ages, from carousels to Ferris wheels.
Beachside Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood or grilled meats at one of the many restaurants lining the Konyaaltı coast.
Day 12: Antalya - Nature's Splendor
Lower Düden Waterfalls
Watch as the river cascades over the cliffs directly into the sea. The surrounding park is green and well-maintained.
Lara Beach
A sandy alternative to Konyaaltı, known for its shallow waters and extensive beach clubs with family facilities.
Sandland
Visit this open-air museum of giant sand sculptures located right on Lara Beach, featuring themes from mythology to history.
Terracity Mall
If you need some air-conditioned shopping or a familiar food court, this is one of Antalya's best modern malls.
Day 13: Journey to Kaş - The Scenic Drive
Coastal Drive to Kaş
Start the 3-hour drive along one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world, with the mountains on one side and blue sea on the other.
Kaputaş Beach Stop
Stop for a photo at this stunning turquoise cove. Access to the beach is via many stairs, so it may be best to view it from the top if with a stroller.
Check-in at Kaş
Settle into a family-run guesthouse in this bohemian fishing village turned chic holiday destination.
Kaş Town Square
The town center is pedestrian-friendly and centers around a charming square with statues and tea houses.
Day 14: Kaş - Mediterranean Bliss
Antiphellos Ancient Theater
Visit this well-preserved small Roman theater that overlooks the sea. It's a short, easy walk from the town center.
Limanağzı Beach Boat
Take a small shuttle boat from the harbor to one of the nearby beach clubs. The water is calm and crystal clear for swimming.
Souvenir Shopping
Kaş is known for high-quality jewelry and textiles. Explore the boutiques in the Uzun Çarşı (Long Bazaar).
Harborside Seafood
Fresh calamari and grilled fish are local specialties. Many restaurants have high chairs and are very welcoming to children.
Day 15: Fethiye - Canyons & Lagoons
Saklıkent Canyon
Drive to this deep gorge. A wooden boardwalk attached to the cliff wall allows families to walk into the canyon safely.
Riverside Lunch
Dine at one of the restaurants where tables are set on platforms over the cold, rushing mountain water.
Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon
Visit one of Turkey's most famous beaches. The lagoon side is very calm and shallow, perfect for small children.
Fethiye Promenade
Walk along the harbor in Fethiye town, which has a long paved path ideal for an evening stroll with a stroller.
Day 16: Return to Istanbul - Spice & Soul
Flight from Dalaman
Take the short drive from Fethiye to Dalaman Airport for your flight back to Istanbul.
Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
Back in Istanbul, visit this fragrant market for spices, Turkish delight (lokum), and herbal teas.
Ferry to Kadıköy
Cross over to the Asian side. The ferry ride itself is a highlight for kids, and Kadıköy offers a more local, relaxed vibe.
Moda Seaside Walk
Enjoy a final family walk along the Moda seaside, followed by dinner in one of the many family-friendly cafes.
Day 17: Istanbul - Departure & Memories
Grand Bazaar Exploration
Visit the world's oldest covered market. While it's busy, the main thoroughfares are wide enough for a sturdy stroller.
Last Turkish Lunch
Savor one last Lahmacun or Kofte (meatballs) in a traditional 'Esnaf Lokantası' (tradesman's restaurant).
Airport Transfer
Head back to Istanbul Airport for your journey home, carrying a suitcase full of memories and Turkish delight.
Departure
Board your flight, reflecting on a successful 17-day epic family journey across Turkey.
Best Time to Visit Turkey
The ideal times for a family trip to Turkey are Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it comfortable for outdoor sightseeing and walking with children. Summer (July and August) can be very hot, especially in the south, while Winter (December to February) can be quite cold and rainy, though it offers the lowest prices and smallest crowds.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, major restaurants, and shops in cities like Istanbul and Antalya, it is essential to carry cash for smaller vendors, local markets, and public transport. Tipping is common; 10% is standard in restaurants if a service charge isn't included. ATMs are plentiful, but check with your bank regarding international fees.
Getting Around Turkey
For intercity travel, domestic flights are the most efficient and comfortable option, especially when traveling with children between hubs like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. Within cities, Istanbul has an excellent network of trams, ferries, and metros. For the Mediterranean coast, renting a car is highly recommended as it provides the flexibility families need to explore hidden beaches and ruins at their own pace. Long-distance buses are high quality but can involve very long travel times.
