21 Things To Do In Istanbul With Kids (Rated By My Kids)

Here is your complete guide to exploring Istanbul with kids. Our family loved our week in Istanbul, and we want to share the best attractions your kids will love in this ancient city.

With our guide to the city’s best family-friendly attractions, places to eat, and info on where to sleep, your family trip to Istanbul will be perfect.

Are you looking to plan the perfect vacation to Istanbul with your children?

Then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll look closely at all the best family-friendly attractions Istanbul offers. From bustling markets and ancient ruins to cozy cafes and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in the city of Istanbul. Read on for our ultimate guide to exploring the city with kids!

Istanbul For Kids & Its Family-Friendly Attractions

For good reason, Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do.

It can be an overwhelming city for first-time visitors, but it’s also a great place to bring kids. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions in Istanbul that will keep everyone entertained.

The best way to get around Istanbul is by taking the tram. It’s cheap and efficient; some trams go to major tourist areas. If you stay in Sultanahmet (the old city), you can easily walk to most sights.

The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace are all within walking distance of each other.

There are some great museums that are perfect for families visiting Istanbul. The Istanbul Archaeology Museum is filled with fascinating artifacts from throughout history. The museum is in Sultanahmet, so you can combine it with visiting the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia. The Pera Museum is another excellent option, and it has a special Kids’ Corner where children can learn about art through hands-on activities.

If you want something more active, take the kids to Miniaturk Park. This huge park has models of iconic Turkish landmarks, including several Ottoman mosques.

Kids will love running around and exploring all the different miniature buildings. Or take a boat ride on the Bosphorus.

Things To Do In Istanbul With Kids

Istanbul is a city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. It’s also an excellent place for families to visit. My family was there in February 2023, and our boys enjoyed themselves. Istanbul has plenty of kid-friendly attractions; here are some of the best must-see sights in Istanbul for kids:

1. Miniatürk (Miniaturk)

For a truly unique experience, head to Miniatürk – a miniature open-air park showcasing 105 meticulously crafted models at a ratio of 1/25th, with approximately half depicting Istanbul. In contrast, the remaining models portray regions from Anatolia and the Ottoman territories beyond Turkey’s borders. The kids will love seeing all the sights in miniature form.

Minaturk is essentially a scaled-down representation of Turkey’s splendid wonders.

You can reach here by taking a public bus from Taksim, but finding the right bus stop in Taksim can be challenging. The bus will drop you off near Miniaturk, just a short walk away.

It’s a delightful activity, whether you’re with or without kids. We spent around 3 hours there, including having lunch at the cafeteria, which offers excellent prices compared to many other tourist attractions that overcharge for food.

Apart from the main café, there’s also an ice cream shop and a juicing shop, so you can easily find what you’re looking for. They even have a costume dress-up shop and a helicopter simulator, although there’s an additional cost for the simulator. Along the way, you can play a few small games by paying a few Turkish Lira.

It’s truly remarkable to see mini versions of all the attractions from across Turkey, and I highly recommend visiting this place.

2. The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. It’s famous for its beautiful blue tiles and six minarets. Kids will love exploring the mosque’s ample interior space and learning about its history.

3. Head To The Istanbul Akvaryum (Istanbul Aquarium)

During our recent family trip to Istanbul, we decided to visit the Istanbul Akvaryum. It came highly recommended, and honestly, it did not disappoint. As we walked through its expansive corridors, my husband and I embarked on an explorative journey across 18 themed zones with our two boys in tow.

These zones, spread across two floors, took us from the familiar terrains of the Black Sea to the mysterious depths of tropical oceans. Our sons were particularly thrilled to spot over 1,500 species of aquatic life, from the colorful tropical fish darting around to the imposing presence of sharks gliding effortlessly.

A highlight? The live feeding sessions! Watching the underwater world come alive during mealtime was an experience in itself. My eldest even nudged me about enrolling in one of their diving courses, imagining himself diving next to those majestic sharks in the main tank. Um, no thanks.

4. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was once the home of the Ottoman sultans and their families. Today, it’s one of the Istanbul attractions for kids that can last hours! It is now a museum where kids can explore opulent palaces and rooms, learn about life in the Ottoman Court, and see treasures worldwide. Try to find the giant diamond.

5. A Bosphorus Cruise On The Bosphorus Strait

A visit to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. This waterway divides Europe and Asia and offers stunning views of both sides of the city. Kids will love seeing all the different ships that pass through – from ferries to cargo ships to yachts.

6. Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey, is a must-see for kids! This underground wonderland was built in the 6th century and is full of fascinating history. Three hundred thirty-six columns support the cavernous space, and two Medusa heads can be found among them. Kids will love exploring this unique place and imagining what life was like in ancient times.

7. Theodosius Cistern

Between 428 and 443, Theodosius II built it to store water from the Valens Aqueduct. This redistribution led to the construction of the Theodosius Cistern, which was built when the Aqueduct of Valens was redistributed from its original supply to the Nymphaeum, the Baths of Zeuxippus, and the Great Palace of Constantinople.

Approximately 45 by 25 meters (148 by 82 feet) in size, the roof is supported by 32 marble columns about 9 meters (30 feet) high. After eight years of restoration, it is now open to the public and a place where kids will find it kind of spooky and creepy.

8. Spice Market

Not exactly the most obvious Istanbul attractions for kids, but if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids while in Istanbul, Turkey, then be sure to take the tram a few stops from Sultanahmet to the “Egyptian Spice Market.” This market is full of colors, smells, and sounds that will stimulate your senses and teach your kids about the different spices used in Turkish cuisine. You can also find souvenirs and gifts to take home with you. 

9. Park Stop

If you want to keep things more low-key, check out any of the city’s many park areas – the perfect place to eat some of the local street food and rest weary little legs. 

10. Catholic Cathedral Compound

Catholic Cathedral compound (built in the early 20th Century by Italian traders) is another great stop for families. The Catholic Cathedral Compound is a beautiful and historic site situated on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait and offers stunning views of the cityscape. The compound also houses a museum, which contains an extensive collection of artifacts from the Byzantine era.

11. Grand Bazaar

If you’re looking for a fun and memorable shopping experience with your kids, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a great option! With its endless stalls and vibrant atmosphere, the bazaar is sure to captivate your little ones. And, of course, there’s plenty of shopping to be done! You’ll find everything from traditional Turkish souvenirs to handcrafted jewelry, toys, clothes, and textiles. Haggling is expected (and even encouraged!), so don’t be afraid to let the older kids try and bargain for a good deal. 

12. Galata Tower

When in Istanbul, visiting the Galata Tower is a must – especially if you have kids! They’ll love riding the elevator to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city. And if you time it right, you can watch the sunset over the city from up high. Make sure to bring your camera to capture this special moment.

Note: This is one of those kid’s activities in Istanbul unsuitable for small kids. The elevator only takes you so far; you must climb two sets of stairs to reach the top. And then, on the way back down, you have to walk down a narrow spiral staircase. It’s easy enough with kids over five years old, but you’ll want to skip this activity if you have small kids with a pram. 

13. Galata Port Area

Don’t miss the Galata Port Area in Istanbul as it is a great place to take your children to burn off steam. With its wide open spaces, they can chase the birds and run about. From this European side of Istanbul, you can also take boat rides to Beyoğlu or the Asian side of Istanbul.

Along the bridge, there are always people fishing, which is always fun to watch and see what they catch. This area has beautiful cityscape views, so be sure to have your camera handy.

14. Take The Ferry To Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands (Turkish: Adalar) are a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara at the southern entrance to the Bosphorus. Seven of the islands are populated and popular tourist destinations for Istanbulites and visitors to the city.

The Princes’ Islands were once used as a place of exile for political prisoners during the Ottoman Empire, and today, they maintain a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, swim in the sea, or take in the stunning views. The largest and most popular of the islands is Büyükada, home to several historical sites.

This is one of the kid’s activities in Istanbul that parents will enjoy as there are also many restaurants and cafes on the islands, making them the perfect place to relax and enjoy a family day out. 

These are just some things to do in Istanbul with kids; you can find more ideas here in this Istanbul guide. 

15. Eat Ice Cream

Eating ice cream in Istanbul is not just a treat—it’s an experience, especially for the little ones.

If you’ve wandered the bustling streets of this historic city, you’ve likely come across the theatrical ice cream vendors donning traditional costumes and teasing customers with playful tricks.

When I took my two boys to a popular ice cream stand in Sultanahmet, their eyes widened with glee as the vendor playfully pulled away the cone multiple times before finally handing it over.

It’s a delightful blend of entertainment and indulgence, where the dance of dexterity becomes as much of a draw as the creamy treat itself.

For families exploring Istanbul, I’d wholeheartedly recommend stopping for this unique ice cream experience. Not only will your taste buds thank you, but the smiles on your kids’ faces will be well worth it.

Find the right museum for your family – a trip to Istanbul for kids is made extra easy with these city museums:

16. Hagia Sophia

Another of Istanbul’s must-see sights is the Hagia Sophia. This ancient building was once a church, then a mosque, and is now a museum. Kids can marvel at the Hagia Sophia’s grand architecture and learn about its fascinating past.

17. Rahmi M Koç Museum

The Rahmi M. Koc Museum in Istanbul is a must-see for maritime history and culture fans.

It features an impressive collection of over 100,000 items. Visitors can explore the museum’s nine galleries, which cover topics such as shipbuilding, navigation, naval warfare, and more. The Rahmi M. Koc Museum is also home to a library and research center, making it the perfect place to learn more about Turkey’s rich maritime heritage.

18. Istanbul Toy Museum

The Istanbul Toy Museum is a great place to take the kids for a fun day out. With over 10,000 toys on display, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The museum also has a cafe and a shop so that you can make a day of it. Ural Ataman Classic Car Museum

The Ural Ataman Classic Car Museum in Istanbul is a must-see for any car lover. The museum houses an impressive collection of vintage cars from all over the world, including some rare and unique specimens. The museum is also home to several interactive exhibits, which make it an excellent place for a family day in Istanbul.

19. Istanbul Naval Museum

Situated within Dolmabahce Palace, this museum is home to a diverse collection of more than 4,000 artifacts surrounding the history of the Turkish Navy.

If you’re up for a lengthy but fascinating stroll into Turkish naval history and heritage, brace yourself because this location is huge. If you have kids with a keen interest in the Ottoman Navy, naval attire, or any affinity to the sea, you and your kids should definitely pay a visit to this museum. 

20. Gulhane Park

During our family adventure in Istanbul, we stumbled upon the Istanbul Gulhane Park, one of the city’s most historic green havens. Its name, interestingly, traces back to the Persian word for greenhouse. It makes a great place to stop after spending a few hours on your feet at Topkapi Palace.

Once we finished exploring the park, we enjoyed taking a seat and reflecting on our experience. The park has pleasant walkways and beautiful vegetation, and although we visited in winter, I imagine this place would be idyllic in the spring.

21. Eat Turkish Food 

Where To Eat With Kids In Istanbul

Istanbul has a range of great places to eat with kids.

Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Istanbul as a family:

• Last Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant. The last Ottoman cafe in Istanbul is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s rich history. The cafe is located in the heart of the city, and it serves up traditional Turkish coffee and delicious pastries all kids will enjoy. The cafe’s decor is very traditional and has a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to chat with customers about the city’s history
• Sultan Palace Cafe Restaurant. Easy to find, the Sultan Palace Cafe Restaurant is on a sidestreet at Alemdar, Biçki Yurdu Sk. No:1, 34122 Fatih. It serves up the yummies pide with many options to choose from – all traditional Turkish options and the place is laid back and family-friendly 
• Sofra Restaurant. If you’re looking for something more traditional, Sofra is an excellent option. The menu features Turkish classics like kebabs and meze platters and a selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a playground nearby if the kids need to let off some steam
• Pudding Shop Lale. This eatery has authentic food and is very easy to get to. They serve their famous Turkish rice pudding that all kids love!
• Pizza e Birra. This popular pizza chain has several branches across Istanbul, making it a convenient option for families. There’s also a play area for kids, making it a great place to eat and entertain the little ones simultaneously. The pizzas are tasty, and the prices are reasonable
• Tariq’s Diner. This fun American-style diner is decorated with vintage memorabilia and serves classic dishes like burgers and fries. The portions are generous, and an outdoor seating area is perfect for families with young children

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Tips For Traveling Safely With Children In Istanbul

When traveling with children in Istanbul, you must be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips for traveling safely with children in Istanbul:

• Avoid crowds by waking up early and seeing the sights as soon as they open
• Stay close to your children at all times
• Keep a close eye on your belongings, as pickpockets are known to operate in busy areas of Istanbul
• Use public transportation only during daylight hours
• Do not leave your children unattended in public places, such as hotels, restaurants, or shops, even for a moment

Where To Stay When Visiting Istanbul With Children

There are plenty of great places to stay in Istanbul with kids. If you’re looking for a hotel that’s centrally located and close to all the city’s best family-friendly attractions, we recommend:

• The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus: This five-star hotel offers spacious accommodations, an on-site pool, and a kids’ club and is just a short walk from many of Istanbul’s top sights like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

If you’re on a budget, plenty of great-value hotels in Istanbul are perfect for families like these:

• The Pera Palace Hotel is a historic hotel that has been renovated to offer modern amenities while maintaining its old-world charm. The hotel is in the Pera district of Istanbul, just a short walk from the famous Istiklal Street
• Another superb budget-friendly option is the Otel Zeyrek, which offers simple but comfortable rooms in a convenient location near many of Istanbul’s top attractions

For a mid-range choice close to The Blue Mosque, we enjoyed our family’s stay at the Alzer Hotel.

The Alzer Hotel, located in Istanbul’s famous Sultanahmet area, is ideal for those looking for a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore the city. The prime location opposite the Blue Mosque allows guests to experience the best of Istanbul.

With its high-quality amenities, the King Suite at Alzer Hotel is ideal for visitors looking to see Istanbul elegantly. However, the King Suite’s main selling point is its breathtaking sight of the Blue Mosque and the Mediterranean. Waking up with a view of one of the world’s most magnificent buildings and the sea is an unforgettable experience.

Tips For Getting Around Istanbul With Kids

Navigating Istanbul with kids in tow might sound like a challenge at first glance, but let me tell you, it’s perfectly doable and can be a blast with the right tips up your sleeve.

This vibrant city is not just a feast for the eyes with its stunning architecture and bustling bazaars; it’s also a place where families can create unforgettable memories. So, if you’re planning a family trip to Istanbul, here are some practical tips to make getting around easier and more fun for everyone.

Public Transport Is Your Friend

First off, embrace Istanbul’s public transport system. The city’s network of trams, metros, ferries, and buses is surprisingly efficient and can be a fun way for kids to see the city from different perspectives. Grab an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable transport card that you can use on almost all modes of transport.

It’s cheaper than buying single tickets and saves you the hassle of fumbling for change. Plus, riding the ferry across the Bosphorus is an adventure in itself and offers some pretty cool views of the city that the kids will love.

Strollers – To Bring Or Not To Bring?

When it comes to navigating Istanbul with a stroller, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The city’s historical areas, like Sultanahmet, are full of cobbled streets and can be tricky to navigate with a stroller.

However, many of the newer parts of the city and big malls are more stroller-friendly. Consider your itinerary and decide accordingly. A lightweight, collapsible stroller could be a good compromise – easy to carry on public transport and handy for when the little ones need a break.

Schedule Downtime

Istanbul is huge, and there’s a lot to see, but remember, kids have their limits. Schedule some downtime each day to relax at a park or enjoy a leisurely boat ride. Emirgan Park and Gulhane Park are great spots to let the kids run around and burn off some energy.

These breaks are not just good for the kids but can be a welcome pause for you, too.

Snack Attack – My Kids Love Turkish Delight

Never underestimate the power of snacks! Keep a stash of healthy snacks and water with you at all times. Istanbul can be warm, and exploring can be tiring, especially for the little ones.

Having snacks on hand can help keep the hangries at bay and make waiting for meals at restaurants more bearable for everyone.

Choose Kid-Friendly Accommodations

When booking your stay, look for family-friendly accommodations. Many hotels in Istanbul offer family rooms or connecting rooms and might have amenities like cribs or laundry services that can make your stay more comfortable.

Staying in a central location can also save you a lot of travel time and make it easier to return to your hotel for a midday rest if needed.

Embrace the Culture

Istanbul is a city steeped in history and culture, and there’s no reason why kids can’t get in on the learning, too. Choose attractions that are not only educational but also engaging for children. The Istanbul Aquarium and the Miniaturk park, where they can see miniature versions of

Turkey’s most famous landmarks are hits with kids. And don’t forget the magic of the Grand Bazaar – even young travelers will be mesmerized by the colors, smells, and sounds.

Have a Flexible Itinerary

Finally, the golden rule of traveling with kids is to stay flexible. You might have a list of must-see attractions but be prepared to adjust your plans based on how the day is going. Sometimes, an unplanned detour turns into the highlight of the trip.

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Families Traveling To Istanbul FAQs

Final Thoughts On Traveling To Istanbul With Kids

Istanbul is a city rich in history and culture, making it the perfect destination for families looking to explore together. From its iconic mosques and Ottoman architecture to its bustling markets and thriving nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul.

Now that you’ve read our guide to family fun in Istanbul, we hope you’re inspired to start planning your trip to Istanbul with children. Whether you’re looking for educational activities, outdoor adventures, or simply a chance to relax and enjoy some of the world’s most delicious food, this city has it all.

Now, you are 100% ready to explore Istanbul with kids with our guide to the city’s best family-friendly attractions. As always, remember to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks for a family vacation!