Istanbul is a vibrant city that bridges East and West, offering fun for all ages. With its rich history, lively markets, and beautiful waterfronts, there’s something for every family to enjoy. The Tea team has traveled to Istanbul twice, first for our design research trip and then for our photoshoot. We’re always on the lookout for places that families would enjoy, both on and off the beaten path. Here are some of our picks for your next family adventure in Istanbul.
Karaköy
One of the liveliest streets in Istanbul is Istiklal, a wide, cobblestone-paved street dedicated to pedestrians and nostalgic trams. It’s fun to take pictures in front of the vintage trams or even hop on for a slow (and short) ride—the trams go just 10 mph, and the route is only a mile long!
Step away from this busy street and head towards Galataport to explore winding alleyways filled with quaint shops and friendly street cats. Take a leisurely stroll along Galataport, located on the shore in Karaköy, where seagulls soar overhead and cruise ships dock along the waterfront. This is the perfect place to enjoy scenic views and capture memorable moments by the water.
If you have little ones with you, don’t miss out on visiting Tophane Park Playground, a spot our team visited for one of our photoshoots. Everyone had a great time exploring all the caves and divots built into the area.
Sultanahmet & Fatih
Immerse yourself in history at the Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking architectural marvel that has witnessed centuries of change. Nearby, you won’t want to miss the Blue Mosque, a gorgeous building with stunning marble interiors—remember to bring a scarf to cover your head as a sign of respect.
When in Fatih, you cannot miss the Grand Bazaar. This famous market is one of the oldest and largest in the world. With 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar attracts between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily, so this may be overwhelming if you have younger kids.
Balat Neighborhood
Discover the eclectic charm of Balat! Here you can unwind at Naftalin Cafe with friendly street cats or take a walk along the colorful staircases and buildings nestled in the neighborhood’s hilly terrain.
Kadikoy
Hop aboard the ferry or tram to head towards Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul. Known for its laid-back vibe and antique shops, Kadikoy offers a more relaxed alternative to the bustling Grand Bazaar. Here you can explore at your own pace and uncover hidden treasures in this vibrant district.
Turkish Delights
Indulge in Istanbul’s culinary delights, starting with heavenly baklava and Turkish delights—just remember to bring your own floss for those sticky moments! You can also find many push carts with fresh Simit (a Turkish bread, similar to a bagel) all around Istanbul. And don’t forget to experience the playful (occasionally irksome) antics of trick ice cream.
Transportation
Istanbul has so much to offer for transportation enthusiasts! The ferry offers amazing views of the city and the beautiful Bosphorus. Kids and adults alike love riding the funicular and nostalgic trams for their cool vintage feel. Yellow taxis (TAKSi) are everywhere, adding to the bustling city vibe.
Other Istanbul Family Faves
- Basilica Cistern
- Rahmi Koc Museum
- Legoland Theme Park
- Istanbul Toy Museum
- Miniaturk
- Istanbul Naval (Maritime) Museum
- Istanbul Aquarium
Be sure to save this blog for the next time you visit Turkey. Don’t forget to shop our newest collection inspired by Turkey here.
