Top 7 Places in Turkey for Families with Teens

As the former capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires, history and diverse cultures emanate throughout Istanbul. Its majestic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque mesmerize visitors of all ages with their grandeur and ornate mosaics.

Located on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is also the only city in the world that spans two continents, granting visitors a taste of Europe and Asia. When there, experience cooking lessons to learn about the influences behind Turkey’s cuisine and even wander through bustling bazaars full of color and spices.

Highlights: Bosphorus Cruise • Grand Bazaar Shopping • Spice Market Tour • Cooking Class •  Hagia Sophia Tour

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-4 days

Float through rolling hills and valleys while riding in a colorful hot-air balloon, from which you can take in Turkey’s natural beauty.

Cappadocia is also home to Göreme National Park, where you'll spot countless fascinating rock formations and pillars caused by volcanic eruptions and erosions.

Finally, discover this central Anatolian region from below ground when exploring underground cities like Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. Cappadocia allows you to see Turkey from new heights and depths.

Highlights: Hot-air Balloon Ride • Göreme National Park • Underground City Tour • Horse Riding Tour

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

Travel back in time as you walk through history in the ruins of ancient Ephesus. Built in the second century AD to hold over 12,000 scrolls, marvel at the beautiful Library of Celsus.

Stroll through the marbled Curetes street as you walk in the steps of ancient Ephesians. Stumble upon The Great Theater of Ephesus, which immerses you in Greek, Roman, and Biblical history. Finally, explore the remnants of the Temple of Artemis, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Highlights: Ephesus Archaeological Museum • Ancient City Tour • Ongoing Excavations • Curetes Street • The Great Theater of Ephesus

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

Embrace the beauty of the Turkish Riviera when visiting Antalya. Feel the fresh coastal breeze, with views of the Mediterranean. Located in southern Turkey, Antalya offers some of the best beaches in the country, some, like Konyaalti and Lara, with mountainous backdrops.

Whether sailing the Mediterranean or swimming along the shore, Antalya offers a relaxing ambiance. When taking a break from the beaches, meander the maze-like streets of the Old Town of Kaleiçi or take a day trip to Aspendos or Perge to find ancient ruins and a well-preserved Roman theater.

Highlights: Sailboat Rides • Swimming in Turquoise Waters • Private Cruises • Old Town of Kaleiçi • Day Trip to Aspendos & Perge

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

Bodrum immerses travelers in ancient history and the tranquility of the Mediterranean seaside. Marvel at the sprawling Bodrum Castle, built in the 13th century and surrounded by stone walls, towers, and turrets.

Also in Bodrum, find the ancient Roman Bodrum Amphitheater, where festivals and concerts still take place today, all with a view of the sea. You’ll also find countless white windmills overlooking the city.

Lastly, venture to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, where ancient ruins are scattered across the site.

Highlights: Bodrum Castle • Boat Rides • Beaches • Tϋrkbϋkϋ Shopping • Windmills

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

In Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, discover natural thermal pools that create a wonderland of pale blue and bright white. The calcite-rich springs capture Turkey’s enchanting natural beauty and are perfect for family exploration.

Located in western Turkey, venture to the nearby town of Hierapolis. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is rich in ancient ruins. Spot the monumental Frontinus Gate welcoming you into the city, where you can find a well-preserved theater and the Temple of Apollo.

Highlights: Cascading Hot Springs • Hot Air Balloon Rides • Hierapolis • Kaklik Cave • Cleopatra Pools

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

Venture to Konya, from where whirling dervishes originate. Watch as they spin around and around for over five minutes, entrancing you with their dizzying spell.

Learn about the history of the whirling dervishes when visiting the Mevlana Museum, made in honor of mystic Mevlana Rumi, whose followers founded the whirling dervish sect of Sufism. As the former capital of the Seljuk Empire, Seljuk architecture is well showcased in Konya.

Highlights: Whirling Dervishes • Mevlana Museum • Karatay Tile Works Museum • Archeological Museum

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 days

From soaking in natural landscapes like cascading springs or pristine Mediterranean shores, riding in a hot-air balloon, immersing yourself in the history of several empires, or touring Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, Turkey provides an incredible family adventure.

Learn more about what the country has to offer with our Turkey Tours & Vacations and Turkey Travel Guide.