Istanbul... a city always brimming with history, culture, entertainment, and surprises. It's no exaggeration to say that the options are endless, especially when it comes to weekend activities. Whether you're looking for activities to do with the kids, exploring places that are both educational and fun, or simply wanting a different family experience, Istanbul never ceases to amaze.
In this article, I've compiled a list of family-friendly destinations that I've experienced with my own family and frequently heard about. They're all different, but they share the same common thread: great activities that both kids and adults will enjoy! What's more, you can easily purchase tickets for these events on Bilet.com.
Let's get started!
1. Fun Stops for Animal Lovers
Animals hold a special place in children's worlds. Seeing them live, getting to know them, and learning about them is an incredible experience. Istanbul and the surrounding area offer a variety of wonderful options:Darica Faruk Yalçın Zoo
This is definitely one of the most enjoyable family activities in Istanbul. This zoo, where you can see more than 200 animal species, is both educational and fun for children.
It offers a wide range of habitats, from lions and giraffes to lemurs and birds. Little ones, in particular, love watching the animals feed. If you're planning a weekend, you can buy your tickets now on Bilet.com and enjoy a day of fun without waiting in line.
Emaar Aquarium
A fascinating journey into the undersea world... As you walk through tunnels filled with sharks, rays, colorful fish, and surprising marine creatures, you find yourself in a fairytale-like environment. It's an experience that will captivate both children and adults.
If you want to do a different weekend activity in Istanbul with your children, you can easily purchase your tickets on Bilet.com.
Park of Istanbul
A vast wildlife park where you can see animals and hike through the forest. It also features playgrounds, a zipline, and adventure trails. It's not just about seeing animals, it's also a multifaceted experience where you can burn off some energy.
Lion Park
As you can tell from its name, this park is entirely dedicated to big cats! Tigers, lions, leopards... It captivates children and offers a captivating atmosphere for adults as well. With its "wild nature" concept, this park is one of Istanbul's most special spots.
Viasea Aquarium
Located in Pendik, this aquarium is a great place to discover different marine creatures. What's more, the complex also houses an amusement park and theme park, meaning you can have a full day of fun.
2. Museums
Museums are the best places to nurture children's curiosity. In addition to classical art museums, Istanbul also offers entertaining and educational museums specifically for children.Museum of Illusions
Prepare to be blown away! Filled with perspective games, mirrors, and optical illusions, this museum is sure to delight both children and adults. The photo-taking fun is sure to double!
"When I went with my family, this was the place where we laughed the most and took lots of photos. If you want to experience this, you can easily buy your tickets from Bilet.com."
Robot Museum
It's a perfect choice for kids interested in technology. Here, you can examine robots from different eras and observe the development of robotic technology. It's definitely inspiring for kids with a keen interest in science.
Sandland (Sand Sculptures Museum)
This massive open-air museum in Antalya enchants visitors with its giant sand sculptures. If you're ever in the area, it's a must-see for the whole family. The sculptures' details spark children's imaginations.
3. Theme parks
If you're looking for a fun, action-packed day filled with laughter and activity with your kids, theme parks are the perfect choice! There are some great family-friendly options in and around Istanbul.Forest Kemerburgaz
Forest Kemerburgaz Adventure Park, Türkiye's largest forest adventure, recreation, activity and entertainment center, offers visitors the opportunity to get away from the stress, noise and chaos of the city, and to exercise, relax and have fun in harmony with nature, with its rich content and peaceful atmosphere.
This park, nestled in the forest, is filled with ziplines, climbing trails, and nature activities. It's a place where both children and adults can enjoy a wonderful time surrounded by nature. You can find more detailed information about operating hours and ticket prices on the Bilet.com event page.
Viasea Theme Park
Ideal for families who love amusement park fun. You'll find classic attractions, from roller coasters to Ferris wheels. There are also kid-friendly playgrounds. Get ready to take your summer energy to the next level at ViaSea Theme Park! Get ready for adrenaline-filled moments with Red Fire, Family Coaster, Hürkuş, and dozens of other rides.
Multiple entertainment options await you in a single location in Viasea, where you can find different activities such as Viasea Theme Park, Lion Park and Viasea Marina Aquapark!
Dinopark
Dinosaur-enthusiasts' eyes will shine here! Life-size dinosaur models, complemented by sound and motion effects, will make children feel like they're in prehistoric times.
DinoPark features lifelike, life-size models of dinosaurs that went extinct millions of years ago. These animated models can reproduce dinosaurs' natural sounds and give the impression of life through their gazes and breathing. You can experience these giant creatures, familiar from movies and documentaries, within touching distance.
Nakkaştepe Zipline and Adventure Park
Want to zipline with a view of the Bosphorus? There are safe routes for both adults and children. If you're looking for an adrenaline-filled day out with your family, be sure to add this to your list. Get your Nakkaştepe Zipline tickets on Bilet.com and get started quickly.
4. Theater and Performances
Art develops children's imagination and aesthetic sense. Istanbul has wonderful theater and performances you can attend with the whole family.The Epic of Horses
The "Epic of the Horses" dance show, which takes audiences on a galloping journey through the depths of history accompanied by the heroic tale of Osman Bey and Bala Hatun, holds the title of being Türkiye's first and only equestrian stage show. Performed with real horses, this captivating show is an unforgettable experience for children. The costumes, music, and stage setting are captivating.
Nutcracker on Ice
One of the world's most important shows, Nutcracker on Ice, will be staged at Ice Island, with the main sponsor being Moneytolia, from November 1st to November 15th, 2025, to enchant everyone from 7 to 70! With elegant ice skating figures, dazzling costumes, and impressive stage designs, Nutcracker on Ice will take the audience on a journey into the magical world of the classic fairy tale.
Watching a classical ballet piece performed on ice is truly magical. The colorful costumes, dance, and music combine to create a magical world for children.
Swan Lake on Ice
Another classic piece, also on ice... It's the perfect opportunity to spend a day filled with culture and instill a love of the performing arts in your children. If you're looking for a day filled with art with your family, you can easily find your tickets on Bilet.com.
Swan Lake, one of the world's most important shows, will be performed on Ice Island from November 16 to 30, 2025, to captivate everyone from 7 to 70! Combining elegance on ice with a dramatic story, Swan Lake on Ice offers a captivating experience with incredible ice skating moves and magnificent choreography, combined with Tchaikovsky's famous music. Swan Lake on Ice presents the most impressive ice reflection of graceful swan dancers and their dramatic story.