Travelling as a family can be challenging but also a fabulously bonding adventure, especially when you’re negotiating a city as complex, vibrant and diverse as Istanbul with kids. Your children may be toddlers or teenagers but we believe it’s finding the balance between fun and education that’s key. Megacity Istanbul, with its rich history, culture, and dynamic energy, offers a great choice of experiences for young explorers and worldly parents too.

Here we’ll tempt you with some of our recommendations and highlights, plus guide you to some of the best family-friendly apartments in Istanbul. Your children will soon be captivated and you’ll have the parental satisfaction of having created lasting memories!

Why choose Istanbul for a family vacation?

Istanbul is a city that effortlessly bridges the gap between east and west, past and the present. This makes it a great destination for families to feel the harmony of the mix plus incredible layers of history while living ‘in the moment’. The city and its people offer a wide variety of exciting activities and educational experiences for children of all ages. From wandering through an ancient subterranean palace cistern and exploring a hectic bazaar to tasting delicious local puddings, Istanbul has something magical for every family member. All this is held together by a culture that values and adores children, so you’ll make many friends along the way too!

Family-friendly apartments in Istanbul

We have a son ourselves and often stay in apartment rentals with him on our travels. So we understand how important it is to choose appropriate accommodation when travelling in Istanbul with kids – it really can make or break the trip. We promise that our family-friendly apartments will make your stay as comfortable and stress-free as possible! Our wonderful manager Taşkın, a father himself, will be on hand in person for advice as needed and Tarkan and Julia are only an email away. Here are some reasons why Istanbul Place Apartments are the ideal choice for families with children:

Practicalities of these apartments for Istanbul with kids

• Central location: Our apartments are all in Galata, a real neighbourhood that’s fascinating in itself yet also perfectly placed to access the big sites and smaller sights. So that’s less time commuting and more energy left to enjoy the city.
• Spacious living areas: Children of all ages certainly need space to play and relax. We specialise in large apartments that offer 2 or 3 double bedrooms plus ample living areas, so that everyone has room to unwind and rest after a day of new experiences. The buildings are 19th Century and intriguingly grand, so high ceilings and large windows give added sense of space and airiness.
• Fully equipped kitchens: Preparing meals and snacks is easy with a well-equipped kitchen. You might have special dietary requirements, want to make a quick meal before heading out or be ready to let your children help cook a Turkish dish. Having a thoughtfully equipped kitchen on hand is incredibly convenient and cost-effective too.
• Modern amenities: With high-speed Wi-Fi and comfortable, stylish furnishings, our apartments provide a home away from home where everyone can relax their own way, perhaps with a favorite show or game, after a day of exploring.

Top activities in Istanbul for families

Now that you’re settled into your comfortable apartment, it’s time to explore the city! Here are some activities to start you off in Istanbul with kids – we hope to delight you all.

1. Shop for souvenirs at Kapalı Çarşı – the Grand Bazaar

Children of all ages are amazed by the sensory overload of the Grand Bazaar, with its labyrinth of shops selling everything from colorful lamps and carpets to Turkish delight. You’ll find presents for friends and family at home, perhaps a magic lantern! and be able to take a break for a Turkish tea, coffee or ice-cream as needed. The nearby Spice Bazaar is also a treat for the senses, with vibrant stalls, characterful stall-holders and exotic scents and aromas.

2. Echo around the Basilica Cistern

Descend into the mysterious underground world of the Basilica Cistern to marvel at the ancient columns and the eerie, magical atmosphere. There are others but this is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. It’s like stepping into a fantasy world yet teaches real history and recycling ethics too – many of the carved stones (eg. a fabulous Medussa head) used are from imperial buildings of previous eras.

3. Take a Bosphorus cruise

We highly recommend an organised cruise along the Bosphorus for families. You’ll all be thrilled by the sights of Istanbul’s skyline – with seagulls for company – and get your bearings easily this way. The chance to see both Europe and Asia at the same time from the water is a great geography lesson and an unforgettable experience. For families with older children or teens a public ferry, perhaps across to Asia, is also a great choice.

4. Discover the street art in Karaköy

For families with teens, Karaköy – a 15 minute walk down the hill from your apartment – offers an exciting adventure. These days it’s a trendy neighborhood known for boutiques and vibrant street art, making it a great spot for a casual walk and some Instagram-worthy photos.

5. Wander around Topkapi Palace

Let your kids step into the world of Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace. The harem, with its beautiful turquoise tiles and stories of royal intrigue, is particularly fascinating for older children. Daggers, jewels and antique costumes are in separately ticketed exhibitions, all recommended. There’s so much to experience at Topkapi – we suggest you allow at least half a day for it.

6. Try Turkish street food

Introduce your kids to the flavours of Istanbul by sampling street food such as simit (sesame-covered bread rings), fresh pomegranite juice, proper kebabs or dondurma – stretchy Turkish ice cream. The entertaining vendors and fabulous flavors make this a fun and tasty adventure for the whole family.

7. Find inspiration at Istanbul Modern

If your children are interested in art, Istanbul Modern is a fantastic opportunity to explore contemporary Turkish and international work. The newly-opened building was designed by prize-winning architect Renzo Piano and is around 30 mins walk from Galata. It’s a great way to inspire creativity for all ages and appreciate the city’s artistic scene.

Why Istanbul Place Apartments is the best choice for your family

We’ve been successfully hosting visiting families for years. Many return to us regularly and have a favourite apartment which they know and love, while others aim to try them all! Choosing one of our historic apartments in Istanbul sets your family up with a comfortable, characterful and convenient base from which to explore the city. With spacious reception rooms, multiple bedrooms, historic architecture yet modern facilities – these apartments cater to the needs of families with children of any age. After a day full of adventures, you can all relax in comfort to plan the next day’s activities – or return trip! – together.

Do you have questions?

We love adventuring in Istanbul as a family – and have done much of it over the years from when our son was a baby to now that he’s just fledged the nest at home. Istanbul with kids makes for an amazing experience, with welcoming people, historical landmarks, fun activities and delicious food that will keep everyone entertained and happy. Whatever their age, Istanbul has something special to offer them. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this incredible city with your family!

Please feel free to ask us any questions you may have in the comments section below.

If you’d like to book an apartment (or more than one – we offer multiples in the same building which works very well for extended family) with us: ENQUIRE HERE