KawkabIstanbul Family Travel Guide
Istanbul is a city on two continents, with history, the sea, shopping and lots of places for children. This guide helps you plan a comfortable family trip.
Visas
- Visa-free: Citizens of many countries can enter Turkey without a visa for a short stay.
- E-visa: Some nationalities apply on the Turkish government's official website before travelling.
- Children's passports: Make sure every child has a valid passport.
- Before you travel: Check the rules for your nationality.
Flights
Istanbul has two airports:
- Istanbul Airport: On the European side, and the main one.
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport: On the Asian side.
Choose the airport closest to where you are staying, as crossing between the two sides can take more than an hour in traffic.
Best time to visit
- Spring and autumn: April to June, and September to October. The best time for walking, with the tulip festival in April.
- Summer: Hot and crowded, but it is the holiday season.
- Winter: Cold and rainy, with lower prices.
Where to stay with the family
- Sultanahmet: Walk to the most famous sights, but the restaurants are touristy.
- Beşiktaş and Nişantaşı: Lively and safe, close to the sea and the malls.
- The Asian side (Kadıköy and Üsküdar): Quieter, with lower prices.
- Tip: For large families, serviced apartments are cheaper and roomier than hotel rooms.
Getting around
- Istanbulkart: Works on trams, the metro, ferries and buses. One card topped up is enough for a family.
- Ferries: Crossing between the two sides is fun for children, and the views are beautiful.
- With a pushchair: A private driver or a large taxi is easier.
Places for children
- Istanbul Aquarium and Sea Life at Forum Istanbul: For fish and sea creatures.
- Vialand theme park: Rides for all ages.
- Miniatürk: Miniature models of Turkey's most famous landmarks.
- The Princes' Islands: A ferry trip to car-free islands.
- A Bosphorus boat trip: Loved by adults and children alike.
Sights
- Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque: Facing each other across Sultanahmet Square.
- Topkapı Palace: The palaces and treasures of the Ottomans.
- The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar: For shopping and gifts.
- Galata Tower: A view over the whole city.
Internet
Quick tips
- Currency: The Turkish lira. Cards are accepted in most places.
- Electricity: Plug types C and F.
- Mosques: Visits pause during prayer times, and women cover their hair.
- Walking: The city is very hilly, so bring comfortable shoes and a light pushchair.
Last updated: October 2026. This information is for guidance only. Check the entry rules before you travel.
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