Things To Do In Istanbul With Family

Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and the fifth most populous city in the world, making it an exciting and vibrant destination for a family vacation. It is known for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. With its stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara, it is a city that will enchant visitors of all ages. From visiting the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to exploring the Grand Bazaar, there are plenty of things to do in Istanbul with family.

A Brief History of Istanbul

Istanbul—formerly known as Constantinople—has been an important city since ancient times. Located at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, it has been fought over for centuries by numerous empires and cultures, including the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Greeks. It was once the capital of the powerful Ottoman Empire, and today it is a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and tourism.

Today, Istanbul is a modern metropolis that boasts some of the world’s most impressive architecture and beautiful landscapes. It is home to more than 14 million people who speak a wide variety of languages, including Turkish, Greek, Arabic, Armenian, and English. The city has been a melting pot of cultures for centuries, and that has resulted in a unique mix of traditional customs and modern influences.

Famous Sights in Istanbul

Istanbul is known for its historic sights and landmarks, making it a great destination for families who want to explore the past. The city has plenty of iconic sights to explore and many cultural activities to enjoy.

Hagia Sophia: The Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Turkey. It is a former Byzantine church that was turned into a mosque in the 15th century before being converted into a museum in 1935. The building’s stunning interior is filled with mosaics and frescoes from different eras.

Blue Mosque: The Sultan Ahmed Mosque—or the Blue Mosque—is one of the most recognizable sights in Istanbul. It was built in the 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I and stands out for its beautiful blue tiles and impressive six minarets. The mosque is still an active place of worship today, so visitors should be mindful of local customs when visiting.

Grand Bazaar: The Grand Bazaar has been an important part of Istanbul’s history for centuries. This massive market is filled with thousands of shops selling everything from jewelry to antiques to clothing. It’s a great place to explore and find unique souvenirs to take home.

Activities For Families in Istanbul

Istanbul is an ideal destination for families looking for activities that are both entertaining and educational. From amusement parks to boat tours on the Bosphorus, there are plenty of things to do for children and adults alike.

Istanbul Aquarium: Istanbul Aquarium is one of the city’s most popular attractions for children and adults alike. This massive aquarium is home to thousands of species of fish and sea creatures, from sharks to stingrays to jellyfish. Visitors can explore the aquarium’s different sections to learn more about marine life and even feed some of the animals.

Museum of Innocence: The Museum of Innocence is an interactive museum that tells the story of two lovers who lived in Istanbul during the 1950s. Through videos, photographs, objects, and audio recordings, visitors can experience what life was like during that time period. The museum also has interactive exhibits that visitors can explore to get a more hands-on experience.

Miniaturk: Miniaturk is an open-air park that features miniature replicas of some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Visitors can explore the park’s different sections to get a unique view of Istanbul’s past and present. The park also has rides for children and a cafe where visitors can enjoy a snack or meal.

Explore Istanbul By Boat

One of the best ways to explore Istanbul is by taking a boat tour on the Bosphorus Strait. There are several companies offering boat tours that last anywhere from one hour to several days. The tours include stops at important landmarks like the Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and more. Boat tours are also a great way to enjoy stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline as you cruise along the strait.

Book a Bosphorus Cruise on GetYourGuide

A Bosphorus Cruise on GetYourGuide offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Istanbul’s historic sights from the comfort of a traditional wooden boat. The cruise takes guests through two continents as they sail past iconic landmarks like Rumeli Fortress, Ortakoy Mosque, and Maiden’s Tower. Visitors will also be treated to commentary about the sights from an experienced guide as well as complimentary snacks and drinks. To book this tour, click here.

Book a Private Yacht Cruise With Viator

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Viator offers private yacht cruises on the Bosphorus Strait. Visitors can customize their tour according to their preferences and enjoy stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline from the comfort of their own yacht. The tour includes commentary from an experienced guide as well as complimentary snacks and drinks. To book this tour, click here.

Visit Istanbul’s Parks & Gardens

Istanbul is home to some beautiful parks and gardens where visitors can enjoy the city’s natural beauty. Gülhane Park is one of the city’s oldest parks, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus from the park as well as stroll through its lush gardens and beautiful ponds.

Yildiz Park is another popular spot for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This sprawling park is filled with lush gardens, ponds, and fountains, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic with family members.

Conclusion

Istanbul is an exciting destination for families looking for an adventure in a vibrant city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. From exploring its iconic landmarks to taking boat tours on the Bosphorus Strait, there are plenty of things to do in Istanbul with family members of all ages. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just want to relax in one of its lush parks or gardens, Istanbul has something for everyone.