21 day itinerary
Turkey
Itinerary
Turkey is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and engaging 21-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Morning: Arrive in Istanbul. Check into your family-friendly hotel.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around Sultanahmet Square. Visit the iconic and .
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try some kebabs and baklava!
Day 2: Istanbul
- Morning: Visit the . Kids will love the treasure rooms!
- Afternoon: Explore the . The eerie atmosphere is fascinating for all ages.
- Evening: Take a Bosphorus cruise to see the city from the water. Don’t forget to grab some simit (Turkish bagel) from a vendor!
Day 3: Istanbul
- Morning: Visit the . Let the kids pick out some souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Head to , a park with miniature models of Turkey’s famous landmarks.
- Evening: Dinner in the Karaköy district, known for its trendy eateries.
Day 4: Istanbul to Cappadocia
- Morning: Fly to Cappadocia (about 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into a cave hotel. Explore .
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at your hotel.
Day 5: Cappadocia
- Morning: Hot air balloon ride at sunrise (book in advance!). The views are breathtaking!
- Afternoon: Visit to see the fairy chimneys.
- Evening: Family-friendly pottery workshop in Avanos.
Day 6: Cappadocia
- Morning: Explore the . Kids will love the adventure!
- Afternoon: Hike in . Pack a picnic for a scenic lunch.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or enjoy a Turkish night show.
Day 7: Cappadocia to Pamukkale
- Morning: Fly to Denizli (via Istanbul, about 3 hours total).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit the . Kids can splash around in the thermal pools!
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 8: Pamukkale
- Morning: Explore the ancient city of . Don’t miss the ancient theater!
- Afternoon: Swim in the .
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel.
Day 9: Pamukkale to
- Morning: Drive to (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the ancient city of . The Library of Celsus is a must-see!
- Evening: Dinner in Selçuk. Try some local pide (Turkish pizza).
Day 10:
- Morning: Visit the .
- Afternoon: Explore the .
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or take a stroll in the town.
Day 11: to Bodrum
- Morning: Drive to Bodrum (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax at the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a seaside restaurant.
Day 12: Bodrum
- Morning: Visit the and the .
- Afternoon: Take a family-friendly boat trip around the coast.
- Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner.
Day 13: Bodrum to Fethiye
- Morning: Drive to Fethiye (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the and have lunch there.
- Evening: Visit the for sunset views.
Day 14: Fethiye
- Morning: Take a day trip to . The lagoon is perfect for families!
- Afternoon: Enjoy water sports or relax on the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a beachside café.
Day 15: Fethiye to Antalya
- Morning: Drive to Antalya (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore , the old town.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 16: Antalya
- Morning: Visit . The kids will love it!
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at .
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a restaurant with a view.
Day 17: Antalya to Konya
- Morning: Drive to Konya (about 3.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the and learn about Rumi.
- Evening: Try some local dishes like Etli Ekmek (a type of flatbread).
Day 18: Konya to Istanbul
- Morning: Drive back to Istanbul (about 3.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the and its stunning mosaics.
- Evening: Dinner in the Balat neighborhood, known for its colorful houses.
Day 19: Istanbul
- Morning: Visit .
- Afternoon: Explore and for shopping.
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Bosphorus.
Day 20: Istanbul
- Morning: Visit the for some last-minute shopping.
- Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Turkish dishes.
- Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in Turkey at a family-friendly restaurant.
Day 21: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
Tips for Traveling with Family:
- Always have snacks and water on hand for the kids.
- Consider using a stroller for younger children, especially in cities with lots of walking.
- Engage the kids with stories about the places you visit to make it more interesting for them.
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Turkey! Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✈️
