Discover Istanbul's Hidden Gems: A 3-Day Family Adventure!

Discover the enchantment of Istanbul's cultural wonders on a family-friendly journey.

10 August 2023

A family friendly trip to Istanbul, Turkey offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. Explore iconic attractions like the stunning Blue Mosque and majestic Hagia Sophia, while experiencing the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy a delightful cruise along the Bosphorus and indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, ensuring an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic Heart of Istanbul

  • Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural gem that will leave you in awe.
  • Wander through the vibrant streets of the Grand Bazaar, where you can haggle for souvenirs and get lost in a world of colors and aromas.
  • Take a boat ride along the Bosphorus and marvel at the beautiful palaces and mansions that line its shores.
  • Stop for a delicious Turkish lunch at a local meyhane, where you can sample mouthwatering mezes and sip on refreshing rakı.
  • End your day with a visit to the stunning Blue Mosque, with its intricate tile work and graceful domes.
Day 2

A Blend of Modernity and Tradition

  • Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, feasting on fresh bread, olives, cheese, and çay.
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Beyoğlu and stroll down Istiklal Street, a bustling hub of shops, cafes, and street performers.
  • Take a ride on the iconic Tünel funicular, the second-oldest subway in the world, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere.
  • Visit the modern Istanbul Museum of Modern Art and immerse yourself in the vibrant contemporary art scene of the city.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants in Sultanahmet, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul at night.
Day 3

A Journey Back in Time

  • Begin your day by exploring the Topkapi Palace, immersing yourself in the opulence of the Ottoman Empire.
  • Visit the bustling Spice Bazaar and let the enchanting scents of exotic spices transport you to another world.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the ancient city walls of Istanbul, enjoying panoramic views of the city and the sea.
  • Explore the enchanting neighborhood of Balat, with its colorful houses and charming cafes, offering a glimpse into Istanbul's diverse cultural heritage.
  • Treat yourself to a traditional Turkish bath experience, rejuvenating your body and soul in a serene hammam.

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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