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The city formerly known as Constantinople, in Turkey, was a bridge between Europe and Asia. Today it’s a perfect destination for traveling with children. In fact, I’ve already discussed three museums that are great with kids, so you are pretty much guaranteed a good time when you visit this part of the world. In addition to the toy, miniature and naval museums, I have 5 more ideas for you today. Get ready!
Tram Ride
You should take a ride on one of the trams painted in a striking red color in the style of the 1900s. The kids will have a great time, especially if you use it to visit the Grand Bazaar. A fun experience is guaranteed, and your child will be delighted if a local passenger hangs onto the outside like they used to everywhere before doing so was banned in the EU countries. Istiklal Caddesi is the best stretch.
Princes´ Islands
These are a chain of islands located on which traffic is restricted. The local population uses horse-drawn carriage or horses to travel around the open roads surrounded by nature. An afternoon or morning running freely around here will help calm a nervous child.
Rahmi M Koç Museum
Located in a nineteenth-century industrial building in the Golden Horn, the building is worth a visit in and of itself. They have a magnificent permanent exhibition with vintage cars and recreational activities designed for children. Your children can pretend to be an airline pilot behind the controls in the cockpit, or experience of being in a submarine and other wonders of science. It also houses restaurants offering local foods. Needless to say, it’s easy to spend the morning here and then enjoy lunch as well.
By boat
Istanbul is a place you should not leave without having gone on a boat trip to admire the two banks. Of course, children (and adults) will enjoy these boats that have been designed for recreation and leisure. The vast majority of them offer specialized tours with dinners, lunches or snacks. And the views are amazing!
Yerebatan Saray (the Sunken Palace)
Also known as the Basilica Cistern, this palace was built in the sixth century to supply water to the city and is within walking distance of St. Sophia. It is an amazing place: the old, underground pool is the largest of the more than 100 which are located in Istanbul. And it is supported by Byzantine-style columns that hold water in their interiors. Needless to say, this place is quite magical. Young and old alike will be thrilled by this palace, one of the top tourist spots of Istanbul. Your children will get excited by the bubbling water and the carp that live here. You can explain the warlike history of its construction at the time of the Emperor Justinian. And of course, you don’t want to miss seeing the moss-covered foundations of the two columns that are shaped like Medusa.
