Exploring Istanbul: A Family-Friendly Adventure in 2 Days

Discover the magic of Istanbul: a family adventure awaits!

10 August 2023

Istanbul, Turkey offers an enriching family-friendly experience with its vibrant culture, fascinating history, and breathtaking sights. Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia to marvel at its stunning architecture and delve into the rich history of the Topkapi Palace. Don't forget to take a relaxing Bosphorus cruise and enjoy the bustling Grand Bazaar for a memorable shopping adventure.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic Heart

  • Start your day at the Sultanahmet Square, where history comes alive as the seagulls flutter amidst centuries-old monuments.
  • Unleash your inner culture vulture at the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece blending Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
  • Navigate the maze of the Grand Bazaar, a treasure trove of vibrant rugs, exotic spices, and whiffs of Turkish delight.
  • Indulge in a hearty lunch at a local Lokanta, where friendly waiters serve up steaming plates of traditional Turkish cuisine.
  • Get a dose of tranquility at the stunning Blue Mosque, its sky-high minarets dancing with the sunlight.
  • End the day with a magic carpet ride on a traditional Bosphorus boat tour, marveling at the glittering skyline of Istanbul.
Day 2

From Palaces to Palates

  • Begin the day with a visit to the opulent Topkapi Palace, where you can almost hear the whispers of sultans past.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Istiklal Avenue, buzzing with eclectic shops, street performances, and colorful characters.
  • Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure at the Spice Bazaar, sampling fragrant teas, sweet Turkish treats, and exotic spices.
  • Discover the enchanting Basilica Cistern, a mysterious underground world where ancient columns stand tall amidst shimmering waters.
  • Have a true Turkish feast at a local meyhane, winding down the day with live music, mezes (tapas), and lively conversation.
  • For a family-friendly trip, consider staying at the Hotel Amira Istanbul, a charming boutique hotel blending Ottoman elegance with modern comforts. It offers spacious rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located in Sultanahmet, it's within walking distance of the city's historic sites and family-friendly restaurants.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Istanbul, Turkey by plane is to fly into Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), depending on your airline and preferences. Both airports offer numerous domestic and international flights.

Car

Driving to Istanbul is possible if you are in a neighboring country, such as Bulgaria or Greece. You can cross the border and follow the E80 highway towards Istanbul. The exact route and duration will vary depending on your starting point.

Train

There is no direct train service to Istanbul from other countries, but you can take a train to a nearby city like Sofia, Bulgaria or Bucharest, Romania, then continue the journey by bus or plane to Istanbul.

Boat

If you are traveling from a nearby Mediterranean country, you can consider taking a ferry or cruise ship to Istanbul. There are no direct routes from major European ports, but you can find various cruises that include Istanbul as a stop on their itinerary.

Bus

Taking a bus to Istanbul is a convenient option, with many European cities offering direct routes. For example, you can take a bus from Athens, Greece to Istanbul by companies like KTEL or Karavostasi. The journey takes approximately 11-12 hours.

Destination

Istanbul

Welcome to a vibrant city where east meets west, kebabs meet sushi, and stray cats meet tourists with open arms. Get ready to explore the land of baklava-induced food comas and never-ending tea sessions - welcome to Istanbul!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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