Istanbul is a vibrant city with plenty to offer families, and this 14-day plan takes you from its historic heart to sea breezes, museums and hands-on fun. The days follow the itinerary's order, with a focus on experiences that suit children alongside the adults.
Arrival
A gentle start to get settled and get a feel for the neighbourhood.
Morning
Arrive and settle in
Arrive in Istanbul and settle into your accommodation.
Afternoon
Stroll around your neighbourhood
Take a leisurely walk around your neighbourhood to get a feel for the city.
Evening
Turkish dinner
Enjoy a delicious Turkish dinner at a local restaurant.
Sultanahmet
The city's iconic historic landmarks, all close together.
Morning
Visit the iconic and marvel at its stunning architecture.
Afternoon
Explore the and its beautiful blue tiles.
Evening
Wander through the historic and learn about the Ottoman Empire.
Bosphorus and Ortaköy
Scenic water views followed by lively seaside neighbourhoods.
Morning
cruise
Take a relaxing cruise along the and enjoy the scenic views of the city.
Afternoon
Visit the and see its grandeur.
Evening
and Bebek
Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of and Bebek.
Grand Bazaar and Spice Market
Shopping, sweet treats and a relaxed tea break.
Morning
Spend the morning shopping at the for souvenirs and local goods.
Afternoon
Visit the and sample some Turkish delights.
Evening
Café break
Take a break at a nearby café for some Turkish tea or coffee.
Princes' Islands
A peaceful day away from the city on the islands.
Morning
Ferry to the
Take a ferry to the and enjoy a peaceful day away from the city.
Afternoon
Explore by bike or carriage
Rent bicycles or horse-drawn carriages to explore the islands.
Evening
Seaside picnic
Have a relaxing picnic by the sea and soak in the island vibes.
Miniaturk and Rahmi Koç Museum
Miniature landmarks and vintage machines that bring history to life for children.
Morning
Visit to see miniature replicas of famous Turkish landmarks.
Afternoon
Explore the , which showcases a collection of vintage cars, planes, and more.
Evening
Family dinner
Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at a local restaurant.
Istanbul Modern and Galata Tower
Art in the morning and sweeping city views to finish the day.
Morning
Visit the art museum and explore contemporary Turkish art.
Afternoon
Climb the for panoramic views of the city.
Evening
Rooftop dinner
Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.
Çamlıca Hill and Maiden's Tower
Hilltop views and a boat ride to a tower with a fascinating story.
Morning
Visit for stunning views of Istanbul and the .
Afternoon
Take a boat ride to the and learn about its fascinating history.
Evening
Seafood dinner
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a restaurant near the tower.
Chora Church and Fener-Balat
Glittering mosaics followed by colourful streets and a local lunch.
Morning
Explore the beautiful mosaics at the .
Afternoon
Fener and Balat
Wander through the colourful neighbourhoods of Fener and Balat.
Evening
Local lunch and traditional dishes
Have lunch at a local café and try some traditional Turkish dishes.
Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya
Marine life and seaside fun for the whole family.
Morning
Spend the day at the and discover marine life from around the world.
Afternoon
Visit for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Evening
Seaside evening
Enjoy a relaxing evening by the sea.
Süleymaniye Mosque and Grand Bazaar
A grand mosque and a return to the bazaar for more shopping.
Morning
Visit the and admire its stunning architecture.
Afternoon
Explore the for more shopping and cultural experiences.
Evening
Traditional dinner
Have dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant in the area.
Beyoğlu and İstiklal Avenue
A lively neighbourhood to wander, with art and dinner along the way.
Morning
Beyoğlu and
Explore the trendy neighbourhood of Beyoğlu and walk down .
Afternoon
Visit the Art Museum for contemporary art exhibitions.
Evening
Local dinner
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Turkish Bath Experience
A relaxed afternoon at a hammam, ending with a leisurely dinner.
Morning
Turkish bath
Indulge in a traditional Turkish bath experience for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Afternoon
Hammam massage or scrub
Spend the afternoon at a local hammam and enjoy a massage or scrub.
Evening
Leisurely dinner
Have a leisurely dinner at a Turkish restaurant to end the day.
Departure
A slow final morning before heading to the airport.
Morning
Leisurely breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation.
Afternoon
Final stroll
Take one last stroll around the neighbourhood and soak in the sights and sounds of Istanbul.
Evening
Depart for the airport
Depart for the airport with wonderful memories of your family-friendly adventure in Istanbul.