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Family Friendly Holidays in Turkey: Where to Go and What to See

Turkey is a trending holiday destination, and its popularity has soared in recent years. It’s easy to understand why. Aside from the incredible food, rand-friendly prices, and plenty of cultural attractions, it’s also perfect for families looking for an unforgettable trip.

3.2min read

Published 26 August 2024

By

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

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Turkey is a trending holiday destination, and its popularity has soared in recent years. It’s easy to understand why. Aside from the incredible food, rand-friendly prices, and plenty of cultural attractions, it’s also perfect for families looking for an unforgettable trip.

From ancient ruins to Instagram-worthy landscapes and beaches to rival Italy and Greece, Turkey is chock-full of attractions that everyone will enjoy. Here’s a guide to some of the best kid-friendly and family activities in Turkey.

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Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus

One of the highlights of a trip to Turkey is exploring the ancient city of Ephesus. Founded by the Greeks in the 10th century BC and later expanded by the Romans, Ephesus was once a bustling city and a major centre of commerce and culture. Nowadays, this archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with well-preserved ruins like the Library of Celsus (which was built in 117 AD and once held over 12,000 scrolls) and the Grand Theatre, which seated over 25 000 people centuries ago.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cappadocia

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. This area is famous for its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys. It looks almost otherworldly, as if you’ve landed on Mars. A sunrise balloon ride offers breathtaking views and an adventure that will thrill the whole family and give your kids memories (and pictures!) which will last a lifetime.

Enjoy the Beaches of Antalya

If your family loves the beach, Antalya is the place to be. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Antalya has some of Turkey’s most beautiful beaches. It’s home to plenty of luxury resorts as well as smaller hotels and is a surprisingly reasonably priced destination for the kind of beaches you’re getting!

The sandy shores and clear waters are perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. For the more adventurous, there are water sports like snorkelling and jet skiing. And because it’s a popular holiday destination with visitors from the UK and Europe, there are also plenty of restaurants to suit all tastes.

Visit the Istanbul Aquarium

We love Ushaka, but this is a must-visit if you have smaller kids and you’re stopping over in the Turkish capital. One of the largest themed aquariums in the world, the Istanbul Aquarium is home to a wide range of aquatic species and features interactive exhibits that both educate and entertain. Your kids will love seeing marine life up close, and the engaging displays make learning fun. It’s a great way to spend a day and adds a unique touch to your Turkish adventure.

Discover the Fairy Tale Castles of Pamukkale

Pamukkale, also known as the "Cotton Castle," is famous for its white terraces and thermal springs. This natural wonder is a fantastic place for families to explore and will keep everyone from primary school kids to grandma happy. The thermal pools are perfect for a relaxing dip without any need for shivering, and the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis adds a historical element to the visit.

Experience Turkish Cuisine with a Cooking Class

One of the best ways to immerse your family in Turkish culture is through its food. Taking a cooking class together can be a fun and interactive way to bond while learning how to prepare traditional dishes like kebabs, baklava, lahmacun, and kofte. It’s a new way to experience Turkish food and learn about some of the culinary traditions of the areas you visit. Plus, you’ll be able to recreate your Turkish holiday when you get back home. And who knows – maybe cooking classes will become a family tradition for every holiday you go on?

Explore the Wonders of Istanbul

No trip to Turkey is complete without experiencing Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents. You’ll fly into and out of Istanbul, so don’t make the mistake of skipping this city!

Families can visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which has served as both a cathedral and a mosque and is now a museum. Kids will love exploring the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir which looks like it could have come straight out of the pages of a Harry Potter novel. And don’t forget to visit the Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest covered market, where you can shop for souvenirs, Turkish delight, clothes, and much more. Trust us when we say it’ll be way better than any shopping mall you’ve ever visited!

Turkey is a truly family-friendly holiday destination, with everything from beaches to history to foodie finds. And it’s one of the cheaper options on the list of international holidays! So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Turkey.

Check out our guide to visiting Turkey and browse our latest flight deals. Then, book your Turkey holiday today by speaking to a Flight Centre agent who can help you create the perfect kid-friendly itinerary to Turkey.

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By

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

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Family Friendly Holidays in Turkey: Where to Go and What to See

Coming Up

Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cappadocia

Enjoy the Beaches of Antalya

Visit the Istanbul Aquarium

Discover the Fairy Tale Castles of Pamukkale

Experience Turkish Cuisine with a Cooking Class

Explore the Wonders of Istanbul

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