Crowded ski resorts, exorbitantly expensive hotels, and endless queues are losing their appeal for many families. For a long time now, I've been planning my semester breaks around more relaxed, exploratory destinations that children can also enjoy.
If you're looking for different, less popular but relaxing family destinations for your 2026 semester break, this article is for you. I've compiled easily accessible options for both domestic and international semester breaks, available by plane or bus.
Domestic Semester Break Destination Suggestions
For a domestic semester break, there are many great options that are enjoyable even in winter and are located outside of crowded large holiday resorts.Kars – Ani Ruins and a Fairytale Winter
Kars is a true haven for families who want to take their time during the semester break. Its snow-covered streets and tranquil city atmosphere make even trips with children enjoyable and effortless. History and nature blend beautifully here.Why should it be preferred?
Instead of crowded ski resorts, it offers history, nature, and winter scenery all in one place. The Ani Ruins, covered in snow, are truly like something out of a fairy tale.
Advantages for families
It's possible to plan short trips for children instead of long walks. The Kars Museum, sledding areas, and local delicacies also attract the attention of children.
Winter experience
Plenty of snow, pristine air, and silence. If you choose the Eastern Express, the journey itself is an experience. Getting there by plane is also quite convenient.
Safranbolu – A Peaceful Holiday Amidst History
Safranbolu is perfect for families who want to avoid the crowds, especially during the semester break. Its streets, which become quieter in the winter months, and its structure, which can be explored with short walks, make it very easy to visit with children. Here, the pace is slow, and the atmosphere is peaceful.Why should it be preferred?
It's not crowded during the semester break. It offers a leisurely stroll with Ottoman houses, stone streets, and small museums.
Advantages for families
Everything is within walking distance. It's easy to explore with children; there are no strenuous trails.
Winter experience
Walking between the houses when it snows is truly enjoyable. It's a popular choice for families because it's easily accessible by bus from Istanbul and Ankara.
Mardin – A Semester Full of Culture
Mardin is one of the best cities to visit during the winter season. The tiring heat of summer gives way to cool but pleasant weather for sightseeing. With its stone streets and scenery, it offers a different world for children as well.Why should it be preferred?
It is very rich both historically and culturally. It is far from the hustle and bustle of a crowded big city.
Advantages for families
Museums, stone houses, and scenic viewpoints attract children's attention. The food culture is also quite rich.
Winter experience
The weather is cool but perfect for sightseeing. The lighting is great for taking photos. Getting there by plane is convenient.
Abant & Mudurnu – A Short Getaway Immersed in Nature
Abant and Mudurnu are good alternatives for families who want to be alone with nature without making long holiday plans. Short walks accompanied by snowy landscapes are also fun for children. During the semester break, a very peaceful atmosphere can be found on weekdays.Why should it be preferred?
Nature, lake views, and tranquility. Ideal for those who want to take a breath without making big holiday plans.
Advantages for families
Children can play in the snow, and the hiking trails are safe. Smaller guesthouses are more welcoming for families.
Winter experience
Snowy landscapes around Lake Abant, warm salep breaks, and a leisurely holiday.
International Semester Break Suggestions
These destinations, which have relatively easy visa processes, are easily accessible by plane, and are suitable for family travel, turn the semester break into an unforgettable holiday memory.Batumi – Visa-free, Easy Access
Batumi is one of the rare cities that doesn't intimidate you when you want to travel abroad with children. Its small and organized structure makes sightseeing stress-free. It's a tranquil destination that provides peace of mind for families during the semester break.Why should it be preferred?
The fact that it doesn't require a visa and can be reached quickly is a big advantage.
Advantages for families
It's a city that can be explored on foot. The parks, the coastal road, and the zoo are enjoyable for children.
Winter experience
It's cold, but not harsh. The city is quiet, and the cafes are warm. It's accessible by plane or road.
Sarajevo – History, Nature and Tranquility
Sarajevo is one of those cities in Europe that has managed to remain friendly. It doesn't get crowded during the semester break and is quite easy to visit with children. Its warm atmosphere, as well as its historical architecture, draws families in.Why should it be preferred?
It's much more peaceful compared to crowded European cities.
Advantages for families
The city is small and transportation is easy. Walking around Baščaršija isn't tiring, even with children.
Winter experience
Snowy landscapes, warm Bosnian cuisine, and a friendly city atmosphere. Flight tickets are often more affordable if booked early.
Bucharest – One of Europe's Quiet Alternatives
Bucharest is a great option for families looking for something outside the classic European routes during the semester break. Its spacious areas and well-organized city structure make it easy to explore with children. The tranquility of winter makes the city even more enjoyable.Why should it be preferred?
Spacious parks, museums, and a relaxed city layout.
Advantages for families
Children's museums, a zoo, and playgrounds are available.
Winter experience
It's cold but orderly. You can comfortably explore the city, which has calmed down after Christmas.
Baku – A Time to Discover Culture
Baku offers a balanced overseas destination for families with children, combining familiar culture with a modern face. The fact that it's not too crowded during the semester break is a big advantage. The city is ideal for those who want to experience a different culture in a short time.Why should it be preferred?
There is less feeling of alienation in terms of language and culture.
Advantages for families
Wide boulevards, seaside promenades, and modern museums are attractive to children.
Winter experience
It's a fairly mild winter. There's wind, but it doesn't hinder sightseeing. Getting there by plane is quite convenient.