Istanbul is a wonderful city for families from the Gulf: the flight is short, the food is halal, and children are welcome everywhere. The secret is not to do too much. Here is a four-day plan that mixes the great sights with time for play.
Day 1: The old city
Start early at the Blue Mosque, then cross the garden square to Hagia Sophia. Pray in the great mosque and look up at the giant dome. After lunch, visit Topkapı Palace, where children love the treasury with its jewelled daggers and the huge Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Finish with an ice cream from one of the Turkish “dondurma” sellers – their tricks make every child laugh.
Day 2: Bazaars and the Bosphorus
Walk through the Grand Bazaar in the morning, then down to the Spice Bazaar for Turkish delight and dried fruits. From Eminönü, take a boat on the Bosphorus between Europe and Asia. A private yacht with lunch on board is the most comfortable choice with small children.
Day 3: A day for the children
- Miniatürk: more than 100 models of famous Turkish monuments in a big park.
- Istanbul Aquarium or Sea Life at Forum Istanbul.
- Isfanbul theme park (formerly Vialand), or KidZania at Akasya Mall.
In the evening, enjoy dinner by the water in Ortaköy, under the lights of the Bosphorus Bridge.
Day 4: The Asian side or the islands
Take a ferry to Üsküdar and visit the great Çamlıca Mosque on its hill, or spend the day on the car-free Princes’ Islands, exploring by electric cart and swimming in summer.
Family tips: plan one area per day because traffic is heavy; carry a light scarf for mosque visits; and book a car with driver and a child seat – taxis rarely have them.
Where to stay with children
Hotels on the Bosphorus in Beşiktaş offer large rooms, pools and the best views. Raffles Istanbul is connected to the Zorlu Center mall – very practical on a rainy day. See all our recommendations in the Istanbul city guide.
Istanbul city guideThings to do, hotels we recommend, halal restaurants, tours and tips.
