Istanbul Kids & Family Attractions

You would love to visit Istanbul, but you wonder if it is child friendly? Yes, it is! Sure, the first thoughts that spring to mind are its vast history and uncountable historical sightseeing spots. And you may have even heard stories of the hectic life in Turkey’s metropolis and their ‘odd’ way of driving. But did you also know that Turks just LOVE children. So, stop worrying and check out my list that will keep both you and your children entertained while visiting Istanbul with kids. in fact, there’s even a Children’s Day each 23 April.

Miniaturk (Miniatürk)

This open-air miniature park on the banks of the Golden Horn contains no less than 105 scale models, all 1/25th of the original Istanbul, Anatolian and Ottoman structures. With its 15.000 m² miniature park and a total area of 60.000 m², Miniaturk is the world’s largest miniature park. The park also features a playground, life-sized chessboard, and labyrinth. Miniaturk is open daily from 09:00 till 17:00, even later in summer. English audio guides are free with admission.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Chances are very likely that your kids will notice this 60-meter-high tower and Golden Horn feature immediately while scanning the Istanbul skyline. Although not suitable for very small kids, a walk on the tower’s top balcony will surely please them – and you. After an elevator ride to the ninth floor, followed by a flight of stairs you’ll enjoy commanding 360 views over the metropolis.

Istanbul Toy Museum (Göztepe)

This private toy museum is easily identifiable by two huge giraffe’s statues and giant nutcracker soldiers that guard the entrance. Inside, the former family home of the founder, the Turkish poet and author Sunay Akın, is filled with 4000 vintage toys. Dating from the 1700s to today, the toys were collected over 20 years from over 40 countries at toy shops and auctions. The museum also has a fantastic cafe, which looks like a gingerbread house, plus glass room where kids can paint wooden toys and take them home (for a fee). Outside is a giant chess set, and a statue of Nasreddin Hoca--the original Turkish clown.

The Naval Museum (Besiktas)

Caiques and cannons and boats, oh my! The newly upgraded Istanbul Naval museum in Besiktas is an awesome museum for kids. Only 6tl entrance for adults. Kids are free. There's a fantastic maritime-themed playroom with puzzles and pirates, and even a nice nursing room. All indoors, tho, so better for a rainy or blistering summer day.

Boat trip on the Bosporus

Jumping on a ferry and crossing from Europe to Asia along the Bosporus waterway is something everyone can enjoy. Visit a hill-top fort or waterfront palace and stop at a local restaurant for lunch.

Basilica Cistern

Slightly creepy lighting gives this underground water system – built by the Byzantines in the sixth century – another-worldly atmosphere that kids love. The cistern’s raised platforms take the visitor between huge columns while carp swim in the waters below. Look out for the huge stone Medusa heads.

Bazaar behaviour

They might not be interested in the jewellery or coffee pots on sale at the city’s Spice Bazaar, but kids’ faces always light up at the sight of lokum (Turkish delight). And with the Turks’ indulgent attitude towards children, you’re likely to get some free samples.

Gulhane Park

The offspring have been patient while you marched them round the Topkapi Palace so it’s only fair that you allow them to expend some of that pent-up energy in the park next door. Fountains and lots of trees providing shade help keep them cool.

Istanbul Modern

Contemporary art might not be top of most children’s must-see lists but this former shipping terminal turned gallery has a great interactive section where six- to 12-year olds can learn about art while having fun.

Rahmi M Koç Museum

If Istanbul Modern has whetted their appetite, kids can find similar hands-on attractions at this place. An industrial museum exhibiting such curiosities as an English Channel-crossing car, there’s plenty here to fill a couple of hours and a good café to fill a hungry stomach.

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