Things to do in Turkey With Kids
Things to do in Turkey With Kids
Whether it’s the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the snow-dusted peaks of Eastern Anatolia, or the timeless charm of its ancient ruins and bustling bazaars, Türkiye (Turkey) is a country that knows how to leave a mark on your soul.
I spent 16 days exploring its diverse landscapes with a curious heart and returned completely smitten. From watching hot air balloons rise over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to discovering quiet coves along the Aegean, every day was a new adventure, and a reminder that Turkey is not just for history buffs or sunseekers, but a wonderland for families, too.
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If you're planning a trip with kids in tow, there's a world of experiences waiting, from hands-on museums and storybook castles to cave hotels, nature trails, and delicious local cuisine even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Here’s my handpicked list of the best things to do in Türkiye with children, based on what I loved and what little explorers would, too.
Best things to do in Turkey with kids
Ride a Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia - Wake up before sunrise and watch the sky fill with colour. Even if your kids don’t fly, just witnessing the balloons lift off is pure magic.
Explore the Toy Museum in Istanbul - A whimsical stop with thousands of toys from around the world. It’ll be nostalgic for adults, but enchanting for kids.
Take a Cruise along the Bosphorus - Hop on a short ferry ride to see Istanbul from the water, with palaces, forts, and bridges along the way.
Swim in the Thermal Pools of Pamukkale - The white travertine terraces feel like something out of a fairytale—safe to paddle in and endlessly photogenic.
Discover Miniaturk in Istanbul - A miniature park featuring tiny versions of Turkey’s most iconic landmarks. Great for little legs and curious minds.
Wander the Underground Cities of Cappadocia - Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, let kids step into an ancient world of tunnels and caves, and they’ll feel like real explorers.
Visit the Sea Life Aquarium in Istanbul - One of the largest aquariums in Europe, complete with a 270° ocean tunnel and interactive zones.
Enjoy Beach Time in Antalya or Fethiye - Calm, shallow waters make the Turquoise Coast ideal for a beach holiday with kids.
Step Back in Time at Ephesus - Walk the marble streets of this remarkably well-preserved ancient Roman city. The scale alone will fascinate older children.
Stay in a Cave Hotel in Göreme - Sleeping in a room carved into rock is a novelty that kids won’t stop talking about.
Ride the Nostalgic Tram on Istiklal Street - In the heart of Istanbul, this short, slow ride is a hit with younger kids and gives you a break from walking.
Play at Anıtkabir Park in Ankara - Beyond the significance of Atatürk’s mausoleum, the surrounding gardens and military museum are surprisingly kid-friendly.
Take a Ferry to Princes’ Islands - No cars allowed. So rent a bike or hop in a horse-drawn carriage and explore these peaceful islands near Istanbul.
Explore the Butterfly Valley (near Fethiye) - A secluded, lush escape where kids can spot butterflies, splash in waterfalls, and roam free.
Feast on Pide and Turkish Ice Cream - Introduce them to Turkish-style pizza and the antics of dondurma vendors, and food becomes entertainment.
Ride a Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia
Waking up early in Cappadocia is always worth it. As the first light touches the sky, dozens of colourful hot-air balloons rise slowly above the valleys, fairy chimneys, and strange rock formations. The view is like something out of a dream.
If you’re travelling with kids, this is one of those magical moments they’ll never forget. Even if your little ones are too young (or not ready) for the balloon ride itself, just watching from the ground is a beautiful experience. The sound of the burners, the massive balloons lifting off, and the colours filling the sky, kids will feel like they’re watching giant lanterns take flight. Most viewing areas have space to move around, so children can run, play, and take it all in safely.
Why kids will love this:
It feels like a real-life fairytale. Watching balloons rise with the sun is magical and unforgettable.
It’s full of colour and movement. Bright balloons in a quiet sky make for a stunning sight.
It’s fun to watch up close. From hearing the burners to seeing the balloon take off, kids can be part of the action.
There’s room to play. Many spots are open fields or terraces, perfect for curious little ones to move around.
A safe taste of adventure. Older kids can experience flight in a calm, quiet way—no speed or loud engines.
It can be a fun learning moment. You can explain how hot air balloons work, what makes them fly, and talk about wind and weather.
Explore the Toy Museum in Istanbul
Tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood of Istanbul, the Toy Museum is a hidden gem that delights both children and adults. Spread across several floors of a charming old mansion, this museum is filled with over 4,000 toys and miniatures from different countries and eras. Some date back more than a century, while others feel comfortingly familiar.
The displays are playful and creative, with themed rooms designed to spark the imagination. Whether it’s a pirate ship, a miniature train station, or a fairy tale scene, there’s something to discover around every corner. Parents will find plenty to enjoy too, especially the nostalgic feeling that comes from spotting toys they once played with. The museum is small enough to explore at a relaxed pace, and there’s a cosy café and gift shop at the end to wind down.
Why kids will love this:
It feels like walking into a storybook. The themed rooms are colourful, creative, and full of surprises.
There’s something for every interest. It's a world of endless fun, from dollhouses to dinosaurs to space toys.
It’s fun and educational. Children can learn about toys from different cultures and time periods without feeling like they’re in a typical museum.
It’s a gentle indoor activity. Perfect for a quiet afternoon or a break from sightseeing.
There’s space to explore at their own pace. Kids can move freely and spend more time with what they love most.
It sparks curiosity and imagination. The setups invite children to create stories and dream up adventures.
Take a Cruise along the Bosphorus
Seeing Istanbul from the water is a must, and one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to do that is by taking a short ferry ride along the Bosphorus. This narrow strait separates Europe and Asia, and as you cruise between the two continents, you’ll pass grand palaces, old fortresses, waterfront mansions, and impressive bridges.
For kids, the boat ride is fun and full of things to spot along the way. The gentle breeze, seagulls flying overhead, and the constant hum of the city from a distance create a calm and exciting experience simultaneously. You can do a full tour or just hop on a local ferry for a shorter trip; it’s affordable, family-friendly, and gives a unique view of the city.
Why kids will love this:
It’s a boat ride! Most kids love being on the water, and the movement of the ferry is smooth and enjoyable.
There’s a lot to see. Palaces, mosques, bridges, and boats—plenty of eye-catching sights for young travellers.
It’s a break from walking. After a busy day in the city, it’s a peaceful way to rest while still exploring.
You can feed the seagulls. Vendors sometimes sell bread, and tossing pieces to the birds is always a hit with children.
It’s both fun and scenic. Cruising between two continents makes for a great family travel story.
Swim in the Thermal Pools of Pamukkale
Pamukkale looks like something out of a dream, bright white terraces flowing with warm mineral water, stacked like natural infinity pools. These travertine formations were created over thousands of years, and today, families can walk, paddle, and soak in these shallow thermal pools.
Kids love the soft feel of the mineral-rich water and the gentle slopes of the terraces. It’s safe to wade in many areas, and the landscape is so unique it feels like stepping onto another planet. There’s also a chance to explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis nearby, adding a touch of history to this natural wonder.
Why kids will love this:
It feels like nature’s water park. Splashing around in shallow warm pools surrounded by white rocks is a sensory delight.
It’s safe and fun. Many areas are shallow and perfect for children to walk and paddle safely.
It looks unreal. The white terraces and blue water create a setting that’s exciting and different from anything else.
There’s space to explore. Kids can wander around, dip their toes, and enjoy the scenery freely.
It’s both playful and calming. Great for fun photos and a relaxing pause in your journey.
Discover Miniaturk in Istanbul
Miniaturk is one of Istanbul’s most family-friendly attractions. It’s a large outdoor park filled with tiny models of Turkey’s most famous landmarks. Everything is built in miniature, beautifully detailed and arranged across gardens, bridges, and pathways from the Hagia Sophia to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. It’s like touring the entire country in an hour, all in one place.
For kids, it’s the perfect mix of fun and learning. They can walk among castles, mosques, and ancient ruins built at child-friendly height, and even press buttons to hear short stories or trigger sound effects. With wide-open spaces, interactive displays, and plenty of room to roam, Miniaturk is ideal for curious young travellers who love to explore with their eyes and feet.
Why kids will love this:
It’s like Turkey in tiny form. Kids will enjoy spotting places they’ve seen or will visit on their trip.
Everything is at their level. The miniature landmarks are fun to look at up close and easy for little ones to engage with.
There’s a lot of space to run. Open paths and green areas give kids freedom to explore.
It’s interactive. Some models come to life with buttons, lights, or recorded stories.
It’s both playful and educational. A great way to introduce Turkey’s history and architecture in a way that kids understand.
Wander the Underground Cities of Cappadocia
Deep beneath Cappadocia’s strange and beautiful surface lie hidden cities, like Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, that once sheltered thousands of people during times of danger. These ancient underground networks stretch across multiple levels and include narrow tunnels, storage rooms, living spaces, and secret passageways carved out of soft volcanic rock.
Exploring these underground cities feels like going on a real-life adventure. Kids will be amazed at how entire communities lived in these hidden spaces, and the twisting paths and stone doors spark endless curiosity. With the right mix of storytelling and imagination, these places quickly become one of the most exciting stops on a family trip.
Why kids will love this:
It feels like exploring a secret world. Tunnels, rooms, and passageways make them feel like real adventurers.
They can touch and feel history. Everything is carved in stone and incredibly hands-on.
It’s full of surprises. Each level and doorway leads to something new to discover.
It sparks imagination. Kids will enjoy picturing how people lived, cooked, and hid here long ago.
It’s different from a typical museum. No glass displays, just pure exploration and discovery.
Visit the Sea Life Aquarium in Istanbul
The Sea Life Aquarium in Istanbul is one of Europe’s largest aquariums and a wonderful place to explore with kids. From the moment you enter, you're drawn into a vibrant underwater world. The highlight is a 270° glass tunnel that lets you walk through a massive tank, surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and colourful fish swimming above and around you.
Beyond the tunnel, the aquarium has several interactive zones that make learning about marine life fun. Touch tanks let kids safely feel starfish and other sea creatures, while feeding shows and educational exhibits keep them engaged. The space is stroller-friendly and climate-controlled, making it a comfortable outing for families, rain or shine.
Why kids will love this:
A world under water. It feels like walking underwater, with sharks and fish swimming all around.
Interact with marine life. Touch tanks let them safely interact with marine life in a hands-on way.
Learning about the ocean. Feeding shows and colourful displays make learning about the ocean exciting.
Good for all weather conditions. It’s indoors and cool, perfect for hot or rainy days.
Enjoy Beach Time on Turkey’s Family-Friendly Coastlines
Turkey is blessed with a long stretch of coastline that offers some of the best family beach holidays in the Mediterranean. In addition to Antalya and Fethiye, towns like Bodrum, Ölüdeniz, Çeşme, and Alanya also have stunning beaches with calm, shallow waters and soft sand, which is perfect for young travellers.
These destinations offer a mix of sandy coves, gentle waves, and kid-friendly facilities like shaded cafes, play areas, and safe swimming zones. Whether you’re looking for a quiet day by the sea or a bit of adventure with paddleboats and glass-bottom boat rides, Turkey’s coast has plenty to keep families happy.
Why kids will love this:
Shallow and calm waters in places like Antalya, Alanya, and Ölüdeniz are perfect for paddling and learning to swim.
Soft sandy beaches in Fethiye, Çeşme, and Bodrum make building sandcastles and digging tunnels easy for hours.
Many beaches have play areas, shaded spots, and cafes nearby for ice cream breaks and quick snacks.
Short boat rides to nearby islands or snorkelling spots are easy and safe. They offer perfect adventures for the whole family.
There’s plenty of space to run, collect seashells, or just enjoy the sunshine at your own pace.
Beach resorts in these towns often have kid-friendly pools, mini-clubs, and activities, making the stay fun and easy.
Step Back in Time at Ephesus
Ephesus is one of the most remarkable ancient cities in the world, and a fantastic place to visit with kids who are curious about the past. Once a major Roman settlement, Ephesus was home to temples, theatres, marketplaces, and even an advanced public bath system. Today, its grand marble streets and towering ruins give families a real window into life thousands of years ago.
Exploring Ephesus is like walking through a giant outdoor museum, but without the glass cases. Kids can climb steps in the Great Theatre, peer into ancient houses, and imagine what life was like during the time of gladiators and philosophers. There's plenty of space to roam, and the scale of the site makes it exciting even for children who don’t usually love history.
Why kids will love this:
The massive ruins feel like an ancient playground where every corner holds a new discovery.
Walking the same marble streets as Roman citizens brings history to life in a hands-on way.
The huge amphitheatre, ancient toilets, and grand library spark curiosity and giggles alike.
There’s room to explore freely; no tight halls or ‘don’t touch’ signs.
It turns dusty history into a real-world adventure, full of stories, imagination, and wonder.
Stay in a Cave Hotel in Göreme
Staying in a cave hotel in Göreme, the heart of Cappadocia, is an experience that turns an overnight stay into part of the adventure. These unique hotels are carved directly into the region’s soft volcanic rock, blending modern comforts with centuries-old architecture. Many of them were once ancient homes or monasteries, now transformed into cosy and stylish family-friendly spaces.
The rooms are cool in summer, warm in winter, and often filled with charming local touches - arched ceilings, stone walls, carved niches, and colourful Turkish textiles. Waking up to the sight of hot-air balloons floating outside your window only adds to the magic.
Cave hotels offer families a chance to stay somewhere truly out of the ordinary. Some properties even have family suites, terraces with views, and friendly staff who go out of their way to welcome kids.
Why kids will love this:
Experience sleeping in a cave. Sleeping in a real cave feels like staying in a storybook or a secret hideout.
Find new games. They can pretend to be explorers or ancient cave dwellers, right in their room.
Waking up in a cave and seeing balloons float past outside is a magical start to any day.
It’ll be a unique stay. Unlike any hotel they’ve seen before, it’s one they’ll talk about long after the trip is over.
Ride the Nostalgic Tram on Istiklal Street
In the heart of Istanbul’s bustling Beyoğlu district, Istiklal Street is a lively pedestrian avenue lined with shops, cafés, and street performers. Running right down the middle of it is the iconic red Nostalgic Tram, a charming, vintage streetcar that slowly rolls between Taksim Square and Tünel.
Taking a ride on this old-fashioned tram is like stepping back in time. It’s a short, gentle journey that gives tired feet a break while still soaking in the atmosphere of one of Istanbul’s most energetic neighbourhoods. The bell rings, people wave, and the tram gently moves past music stalls, bookstores, and pastry shops.
It’s a simple yet memorable activity for families, especially for young kids who love anything on wheels.
Why kids will love this:
It’s like riding a tram straight out of a storybook. The vintage red design and old-school charm make it feel special and different from any ordinary transport.
Short and sweet. The ride is just long enough to be fun without testing their patience.
A break for little legs. After walking along busy İstiklal Street, the tram offers a cosy seat and a chance to relax.
They get to ring the bell (sometimes!). Tram drivers often let curious little ones honk the bell. always a thrill!
So much to look at. From musicians to candy shops, the slow ride gives kids a front-row seat to all the action on the street.
Play at Anıtkabir Park in Ankara
Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is one of Turkey’s most important national landmarks. While it holds deep historical and cultural significance, the site is also thoughtfully designed for families. Surrounding the grand monument are peaceful, well-maintained gardens, wide walkways, and shaded green spaces where children can roam freely.
In addition to the mausoleum itself, there’s a military museum featuring old uniforms, vehicles, and detailed dioramas. These exhibits often capture the attention of curious kids, especially those interested in history or transportation. The guards' ceremonial changing is another moment that tends to fascinate young visitors.
Whether you're there to learn, reflect, or just enjoy a calm stroll, Anıtkabir offers a surprisingly balanced outing that appeals to all ages.
Why kids will love this:
Lots of space to walk, explore, and play in the gardens. It’s a peaceful and safe area to stretch their legs.
The military museum is full of interesting exhibits. Tanks, uniforms, and historical displays capture young imaginations.
Watching the changing of the guard feels like a real-life ceremony. The precision and uniforms are fun and impressive to see.
Great views of Ankara. The elevated park offers panoramic city views, giving kids a sense of place.
A quiet, reflective break. It introduces children to Turkish history in a calm and approachable way.
Take a Ferry to the Princes’ Islands
Just a short ferry ride from Istanbul, the Princes’ Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city's busy streets. When you step off the boat, you’ll notice something unusual - no cars. These islands are traffic-free, making them ideal for families to explore safely and at a slower pace.
You can rent bikes, ride in an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage (on some islands), or simply stroll through charming streets lined with historic mansions, bakeries, and seaside cafés. Büyükada, the largest island, is especially popular with families thanks to its shaded parks, scenic coastal paths, and inviting picnic spots.
The ferry ride itself is part of the fun, giving kids a breezy boat adventure with seagulls flying overhead and views of Istanbul fading into the distance.
Why kids will love this:
No cars means safe streets to walk, bike, and explore. It’s a rare treat for little ones to roam freely.
Riding bikes as a family is both fun and active. Tandems and kid-sized options are often available.
Horse-drawn carriages feel like stepping back in time. It’s a gentle ride through nature and neighbourhoods.
The ferry ride is an adventure of its own. Kids love watching the seagulls and feeling the sea breeze.
There’s plenty of space for picnics and play. Open parks and waterfront paths make for a relaxed day outdoors.
Explore the Butterfly Valley near Fethiye
Tucked between towering cliffs along the Turquoise Coast, Butterfly Valley is a hidden paradise that feels like stepping into another world. Accessible by boat from Ölüdeniz, this protected natural reserve is known for its lush greenery, freshwater streams, and a wide variety of butterfly species, especially the Jersey tiger moth.
The valley is car-free and mostly untouched, offering a wild, open space where kids can truly connect with nature. There’s a small beach for swimming, trails that lead to a trickling waterfall, and plenty of shady spots for a family picnic. While the butterfly sightings are seasonal, the overall experience of being in such a raw, beautiful setting makes it an unforgettable stop.
Why kids will love this:
They can splash in waterfalls and paddle in gentle streams. Nature’s playground is always the best.
The chance to spot butterflies fluttering around adds a magical touch. Especially in spring and early summer.
No roads, no traffic. Just wide open space to explore and run free.
The boat ride to the valley is part of the adventure. Watching cliffs rise around you adds to the thrill.
It’s a place where nature feels close and exciting. Rocks to climb, trails to follow, and water to play in—it’s the stuff childhood memories are made of.
Feast on Pide and Turkish Ice Cream
Food in Turkey isn’t just delicious, it’s an experience, especially for kids. Start with pide, often called Turkish-style pizza. Baked fresh in stone ovens, it comes in fun boat shapes and is topped with cheese, vegetables, or meat. It's easy to share and always a hit with little appetites.
Then there’s dondurma, the famous Turkish ice cream with a chewy, stretchy texture unlike anything they’ve tried before. But the real fun? The vendors. Serving dondurma is part performance - expect tricks, teasing, and lots of laughter as kids try to grab their cone while the vendor playfully snatches it away again and again.
Why kids will love this:
Pide looks and tastes like pizza, but with fun boat shapes and Turkish toppings. It's familiar enough to enjoy, but still something new to try.
They can watch the pide being made. Seeing it go into a hot stone oven and come out golden and bubbling is part of the excitement.
Turkish ice cream vendors put on a show. The tricks and playful teasing make getting a cone a hilarious game.
The stretchy, chewy texture of dondurma is fun and totally different. It's ice cream, but with a twist.
It turns an everyday treat into a memory. Food becomes more than a meal—it becomes part of the adventure.
Tips for Visiting Turkey with Young Children
Travelling to Turkey with little ones can be a wonderful and stress-free experience, especially with a bit of planning. Here are some practical tips to help your family trip go smoothly:
1. Choose child-friendly accommodations
Look for family-run boutique hotels or resorts with amenities like cribs, kid-friendly meals, and spacious rooms. Many hotels in places like Cappadocia or Antalya offer family suites and safe outdoor spaces.2. Stick to a slow travel pace
Avoid overloading your itinerary. Plan for shorter sightseeing windows, plenty of downtime, and free play in parks or open spaces to keep young kids happy and refreshed.3. Prioritise stroller-accessible areas
While many places in Turkey are stroller-friendly, ancient sites like Ephesus or hilly areas like Göreme may require a baby carrier. In cities like Istanbul or Izmir, wide sidewalks and pedestrian zones make navigating easier for a stroller.4. Embrace Turkey’s child-loving culture
Turkish people are famously warm and welcoming toward children. Don’t be surprised if strangers offer a smile, a treat, or even help in restaurants or on public transport.5. Pack snacks and essentials
You’ll find plenty of bakeries and markets, but carrying a few familiar snacks, diapers, and wipes is always wise, especially during longer journeys or remote excursions.6. Use ferries and trams as mini adventures
Short rides on Istanbul’s ferries or nostalgic trams are more than transport—they’re exciting experiences for young kids.7. Visit attractions with open space
Choose sights where kids can move freely, such as the Princes’ Islands, coastal promenades, and spacious ruins like Pergamon or Ephesus.8. Mind the summer heat
If you’re visiting in July or August, plan activities early in the morning or late afternoon. Always carry sunscreen, hats, and water.9. Enjoy family-friendly food
Turkish food is varied and flavorful. Many dishes, like lentil soup, rice, grilled chicken, pide, and fresh bread, are kid-approved and easy on young stomachs.10. Be flexible and follow their lead
Kids may be more interested in feeding street cats or watching ice cream vendors than in museums, and that’s part of the charm. Let the little detours become part of the adventure.
Why Turkey is a Treasure Trove for Families
Turkey is one of those rare destinations that blends fun, learning, and adventure into every day of your trip. Whether you’re riding a hot air balloon over Cappadocia, splashing in the turquoise waters of Antalya, walking through ancient ruins in Ephesus, or simply sharing a slice of warm pide, there’s something magical here for every member of the family.
From historic cities and coastal escapes to hands-on museums and unforgettable meals, Turkey is packed with kid-friendly experiences that are exciting, safe, and rich in culture. It’s the perfect place to slow down, explore together, and create lasting memories.
If you're planning a family vacation and looking for the best things to do in Turkey with kids, this incredible country will surprise you at every turn.