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1 Family Highlights of Turkey

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2 1 Family Highlights of Turkey TURKEY BULGARIA BULGARIAB AegeanA France AegeanA Aegean Bodrum ISLANDS ISLANDS I Çe 100km 0 0 LesboL Lesbos e e U Tunisia SeaS Sea Gallipoli SeaS Sea S e g GREEKG g e e ş s 14 e L Ku ÇeÇ e L S Samos Samos me a Germany a b R a e a a G ÇanakkaleÇ A ş o n ş Terkirda n a m Italy m me E adasi Ke 12 s A n KosK Kos N Libya e GallipoliG Izmir MEDITERRANEANM o E a ş 3 BodruB Edirn E Edirne an o 16 a KeK R k s Manisa d o D l E K e IzmirI l k s Marmaris z i ş i d 21 p D KuK r I a an a m 10 S o r n n 24 Aydin Turgutlu u 17 l A I Poland e u l ğ e

i ş TerkirdaT i m T r ManisaM RhodesR a adasi Greece e Akhisar E SEA SEAS d a r h Romania R k n Od a 100 mi Sea ofMarmaraS E TurgutluT Odemis o 30 i u i s R s e A Bulgaria r M AydinA r AkhisarA a Marmaris i d d Bandirma g a A y Salihli B k Mu Bandirma B a u a d Balıkesir Mu

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N a 23 v 32 R ğ Do b e 21 E IRANI IRAN 22 29 ubayazıt u r i ğ e r adasi o M Do ş Yerevan Y a Hakkari D Q k R k Sakarya Side Tekirda Trabzon Yalova Ephesus Fethiye Hierapolis Istanbul Izmir Iznik Kemer Ku Marmaris Pamukkale Safranbolu a l A Van ARMENIAAARMENIA A u HakkariH Mosul s 15 s i n I R a ç o r k IRAQ I IRAQ VaV Dahük G ErçisEErçis MosulM ükü e A h s ü Kars o a l I o s R r 13 Zakho h ö k DahD a k Karakose a G 12 S Kar

k r K a O 3 n 7 a a ZakhoZ 10 4 6 S Sirnak a 5 n Karakose K 14 2 E n 1 16 9 a r Van Gölü Gölü Van VVan 11 i 8 e h r Cizre U S Sirnak GEORGIAG GEORGIA a z s i i Ardahan l Bitlis d me t CizrC RUSSIA R RUSSIA r ş i ArdahaA B Ankara Ankara Antalya Balikesir Belek Bilecik Bodrum Bursa Çanakkale Cappadocia Çe and Dalaman Dalyan Edirne Attractions Adana Alanya Altinkum Amasra t Bitli r Siirt i i l i n i h SiirtS v s t s i Artvin r u Artvi Mus A m h m M n u ämishliä a r Mus a Q k

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4 1 Family Highlights of Turkey T like tosail. To ofthecountry, thenorth the which hasitsown andisespeciallypopularwithfamiliesthat airport toric buildingsthat Turkey isespeciallyproud of, suchasthe great coast Marmaris intheAegean region, andsealifeparks like see anddo. Inland, there isthelively cityof own characters,andoffermuchforadultschildren ofallagesto of Amasra, Trabzon andSinop, amongmanyothers.Allhave their One ofthetop theme parks is especially alongthecoastlinesofAegean andtheMediterranean. theme parks, children’s zoos andplaygrounds are toemerge, starting tions forchildren asyou wouldexpect,althoughmore andmore shouldn’t spoilatrip. ofthelocalculture,part suchover-zealousness by completestrangers andthepracticeofadmiringchildren acknowledgedobserved asbeing safety-conscious times,butproviding theusualprecautions are ily. For manyofus,thiscanbemore thanatadalarminginthese talk to,pickupormaybestroke thehairofyoungsters inthefam- or around anhistoricsitewillalmostinevitablyprompt passers-by to especially welcomed in Turkey, even admired. Awalkthrough abazaar tan cities,suchasAnkaraandIstanbul. Alongthe coastal regions andinlandforests, traditionalvillagesandcosmopoli- events. along withafullprogramme ofsupervised theme parks and playgrounds tuckedawaywithintheirgrounds, too, dolphins. Many hotelsandaccommodationcomplexes have theirown Kemer intheMediterranean region, where children canswimwith like thoseat Safranbolu Topkapi Palace nary ‘Fairynary Chimney’ landscapeof several aquaparks, suchasthesprawling Turkey’s mosthistoricsightscanbeseeninminiature. There are also the largertowns, alongwithmusicanddancefestivals oftenheld Mediterranean. dive. In fact, Turkey hassomeofthebestdivingwatersineastern raft,playgolf,trails, dinghysail,ski,whitewater horse-rideandeven and Aegean are idealforyoung children. time onthecountry’s finebeaches. The beachesontheMediterranean bustling resorts, along with the sophisticated Bodrum on bustling resorts, alongwiththesophisticatedBodrum Other familyfavourites are visitingsomeoftheoutstandinghis- However, withthisinmind,there aren’t asmanydedicatedattrac- Turkey withhighmountainsandvalleys, isadiverse country Families canalsoenjoy thelively street theatre foundinsomeof There are tosailandfollow seeminglyendlessopportunities nature urkey haslongbeenapopularholidaydestination, years ithasemerged asafavourite forfamilyfuntoo. Children are holiday hotspotsincludeAntalya,Side, Dalyan andAdana, all and Çanakkale Trabzon or the Blue Mosque , , orheadingofftothecoastandspending Ephesus Miniaturk , Cappadocia Pergamum in Istanbul, andancientsites Atlantis Waterpark in Istanbul, where manyof Black Sea Ankara , . Hierapolis Mediterranean and theextraordi- Dolphinarium has theresorts the Aegean but inrecent , in at , Turkey Family Highlights 5 open-top bus sight- the rhythm at the in the weekly the Spirit of the Spirit Topkapi Sarayi Topkapi Anatolia, a show by the Istanbul the by Anatolia, a show held at the Ensemble Dance Theatre Dance Cultural Turkish It’s most days of the week. colourful, invigorating and ideal 62. p. See for all the family. seeing tour from Taksim Square Taksim seeing tour from and seeing the sights like the the mosques, Palace, Dolmabahçe city walls and the waters of the Bosphorus Horn and the Golden 96. p. in style. See Dancing to Taking part Taking Getting into Catching an Visiting the Visiting workshops at the Istanbul Toy at the Istanbul workshops such as Subjects Museum. in a fun, covered are archaeology with workshops playful way, age groups, to different tailored to tots through young from 62. p. teenagers. See International Istanbul Music and Music Istanbul International at venues Held Festival. Dance a there’s the city, throughout to suit all of events programme and music and dance age groups, 62. p. tastes. See (Topkapi Palace), the Yerebatan the Palace), (Topkapi Cistern) and (the Basilica Sarayi Hippo- the site of the ancient lie stadium, all of which drome Square the Sultanahmet around 72. p. See area. of the events Children’s Summer Children’s unusual souvenirs Turkey is a fascinating country and wherever you stay on a family stay country is a fascinating you wherever and Turkey that take place in Istanbul on that take place in Istanbul International to mark April 23rd a celebration that Day, Children’s The UNICEF. by is recognised emphasis is on the fact that chil- of the nation the future are dren the and, as such, they replace parliamentarians, including the in Minister, and Prime President Assembly for National the Grand the day to discuss issues that con- When the seri- cern youngsters. and festivals ous business is over, held, to which are events street and Towns everyone is invited. hold Turkey cities throughout those in to similar events 61. p. See Istanbul. Looking for Enjoying the children. TURKEY FAMILY HIGHLIGHTS Istanbul Attending some and haggling in the Grand and then stopping in the Bazaar, the between courtyard lively and the Aya Sofia Mosque Blue drink and ice for a refreshing 64. p. See cream. Festival held in the Feshane Festival Entertainment Park, Children’s at Eyüp. Horn just off the Golden rides and fairground are There competitions, plus special events 61. p. time. See during festival around the country. Traditional music and dance are an important music and dance are Traditional the country. around culture. Turkish part of the should be a trulyholiday it and your you experience for memorable 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 5 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage6

6 1 Family Highlights of Turkey over itsfortresses. See p. 66. walls inIstanbul orclimbing offers plentyoffun.See p. 73. ground floor– the pretend castle in thechildren’s sectiononthe the Topkapi Palace, andchilling Archaeological Museum, near ofIstanbul’sartefacts bargains totakehome,buthag- practical –you can findmany Bazaar, isbothatmosphericand Square, orentered viatheGrand merchants, found justoffBeyazit yard ofbooksellersandpaper Istanbul’s BookBazaar. The court- gling isamust.See p. 64. to goashore. See p. 67. points foryou andyour children trips even offerstopping-off of Istanbul from thewater. Some andseeingthesights Bosphorus Browsing around Exploring the Boat tripalongtheBosphorus Taking a Exploring the boat tripalongthe ruins of the city ruins centuries-old the booksin of Edirne. See p. 95. Kaleiçi district(theoldquarter) Festival attheKu CultureSanctuary and Tourism at theInternational Bird and brightlycoloured flamingos Having fun Exploring the Seeing the Having fun The MarmaraRegion ful woodenhomesthatlooklike Marmara, andseeingthecolour- the Princes’ Islands intheSea of Buyuk Ada (Büyükada),oneof horse-drawn carriagearound the p. 90. National Park nearBalikesir. See festival music.See p. 90. Horse –andthendancingtothe reconstruction ofthegiant Trojan of thehugewoodenhorse–a the stairsandreaching theinside Troy, Çanakkale,by climbingup at the Troy Festival, wonderful pelicans wonderful with thefamilyina tiny streets ofthe @ Cenneti Turkey Family Highlights 7 , the on any maniye in sticky sugar @ pi as you tryas you to eat one of a dozen or more soft or more one of a dozen sandy beaches that line the of Marmara, coastline of the Sea and then splashing in its cool, 98. p. safe waters. See Making sandcastles Getting covered of sugar that melt in the mouth should be tried, albeit and really 96. p. in small quantities. See local delicacy of Iznik. It’s a It’s local delicacy of Iznik. snack made of thin layers sweet i National g Kaz Da boat trip along the i mountain range while g tucking into a picnic of local 99. p. cuisine. See Turkish Trojan Horse, Troy Trojan houses. See they should be dolls’ 100. p. a Taking the Visiting Dardanelle Straits, seeing the Straits, Dardanelle that line the coastline fortresses and looking out for the colour- 94. p. ful fish in the waters. See Kaz Da Park and gazing at the massive Park 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 7 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage8

8 1 Family Highlights of Turkey see thefish.See p. 126. seafront, andtaking atripoutto Marmaris from themarinaon p. 137. natives. See p. 145. flavours there are plentyofalter- aren’t quitesokeenoncertain some membersofthefamily soif of localdelicaciesare served a goodbetaslotsofsmalldishes Turkish familymeal–ameze is which wasbuiltby theKnightsof Tucking into The AegeanRegion Gazing up Exploring the Going Adding a Seeing the Taking the Having fun the water’s edgeatKu are. See p. 103. domes toseehow manythere in Edirne andcountingthelittle p. 141. SeeArchaeology inBodrum. the Museum ofUnderwater p. 126. swings offerhoursoffun.See the brightlycoloured slidesand from Ku Island reached viaacauseway onPigeonwith afull-size fort up. See p. 141. the worlditwilleventually end Mazi, andwondering where in being madeinthetinyvillageof bold-patterned carpetsasitis inside a‘shipwreck’ at @ adası seafront. See stitch tooneofthe at theOld Mosque chance to‘play’ yachts comeandgo in theplayareas on an authentic Castle ofSt Peter, @ adası – See p. 135. Turkey, andit’s alwaysfun. at several amphitheatres around back toyou. You candothis and hearingyour voice echo your favourite songoutloud singing Antique Theatre, Gümü rabbits. You cangetthere from and lookingoutforfamiliesof Theatre. See p. 153. the ancientopen-airAspendos Opera andBallet Festival heldat at theAspendosInternational Playing in Visiting Bodrum’s Heading off Playing ‘I-spy’ Seeing the The Mediterranean ence. See p. 132. at thetop, experi- isawonderful spending sometimeswimming with plentyofstops,andthen up thehillbuttakingitslowly Pamukkale. It isabitoftrek waters neartheRoman at ruins swimming inthenaturalwarm p. 131. shallow watersoftheseas.See Aegean region. See p. 131. Yalikavak inthesouthof near around thecountryside p. 138. in thePrincess Ada Hall. See the chancetoseepretty jewellery for pirates.Alternatively there’s knights orkeepingalookout andplayingatbeing Bodrum, St John rightonthequaysideat @ lük by walking in the the mudbathsand ballerinas onstage to RabbitIsland for windmills ancient Turkey Family Highlights 9 crafts to take the crystal-clear in the countryside the family on the slopes of the Ilgaz Mountains in Mountains slopes of the Ilgaz discos, plus a spot of heritage 157. p. See too. The Black Sea Region Horse-riding Kastamonu on one of the around at the super horses available Tourism Equestrian International p.194. See at Daday. Centre Skiing with Finding unusual Snorkelling in waters of the Aegean and waters of the Aegean seas off the south- Mediterranean and southeast- ern, southwestern 171. p. ern coastlines. See home as a gift or souvenir in the home as a gift or souvenir of Kaleiçi, the old little streets find You’ll quarter of Antalya. trinkets wooden inlaid boxes, all made in the and jewellery, plus lots of pastryarea, goodies. 172. p. See ‘Sand Village’ ‘Sand wonder at Turkey’s wonder at a game of pirates in Belek so the boys can so the boys Belek Alanya. Its 9th-century fortress Alanya. Its the harbour saw plenty right by as the centuries of action over were and its dockyard the town the magnets for pirates. See jutting out ruins of the dockyard 154. p. of the sea. See along the same lines as the great is It in Istanbul. Mosque Blue 154. p. simply huge. See largest mosque, the Sabanci built in Adana, Central Mosque Visiting Side’s Visiting Castle of St Peter, Bodrum Castle of St Peter, Enjoying Gazing in have a golf lesson or a game, while a golf lesson have mum and the girls can go off col- the town’s shopping around lection of designer fashion shops to a health spa or hot foot it down 155. p. for some pampering. See thing for all the family, from thing for all the family, to sailing trips and playgrounds where there is, literally, some- is, literally, there where 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 9 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage10

10 1 Family Highlights of Turkey See p. 184. its smallcastletoplaysoldiers. Amasra, andthenstoppingoffat the remains oftwofortresses at the harbouratSinop andgazing one ofthelittleboatsthatleave Getting sticky Exploring the how Learning p. 194. ing inoneofitsmanyrivers. See raft- Kastamonu orwhitewater the Ilgaz National Park near Going out Gazing in erations. See p. 183. handed down through thegen- traditional dancesthathave been tolearnthestepsof trying festivities around Trabzon, and Taking part Heading out See p. 183. of itsGolden Hazelnut Festival. dancing withthelocalsaspart and of thehazelnut harvest, made inOrdu around thetime gorgeous chocolate-nutcandy cos. See p. 191. then goinginsidetoseethefres- the sideofasheerrock face,and Trabzon, whichsitshighupon Sümela Monastery, near Bazaar, inSafranbolu. See p. 194. take homeintheArasta,Old securing abargainsouvenir to See p. 184. ket orlocalshoptobuysome. and stoppingatthenearest mar- rounded by hazelnut orchards, cycle andexplore its lanessur- wonder attheghostly for thedayonboard in the to Akçakoca rock caves and to barter and to barter as you eatthe dernek up close.See p. 220. and gazingattheminwonder from above, andthenlanding rockextraordinary formations over Cappadociaandseeingthe air Turkish RailwaysSteam vintage steamtrainsattheopen- every turn.See p.every 219. covering statuesandpotsat Civilization inAnkaraanddis- the Museum ofAnatolian Skiing Taking a Visiting the Enjoying the Going up Region Ankara &theAnatolia Gazing in Exploring the sake. See p. 210. doll, andbuyingoneasakeep- home ofthetraditionalcloth once lived. See p. 215. see where thousandsofpeople way through the eerietunnelsto of Derinkuyu, andmakingyour complex. See p. 211. rafting, albeitinthesafetyof your handatwhitewater trying pools ofAnkara’s Aquapark and See p. 186. enjoy aswiminthecoolwaters. awhile tojumpoverboard and the sea,andthenstopping at thecoves andforests thatface p. 215. Seethe ancientcityofErzurum. trip outtoseetheremains of Palandöken, andthentakinga in thelively resort of tour ofthegardens at in ahot-airballoon wonder atthehuge underground city slides andwave So g anli Valley, Best Beaches & Watersports 11 of in the Gulf of in the Gulf at the busy resort at Kilyos is great at Kilyos of Erdek is long and sandy, and is long and sandy, of Erdek lies next to lots of restaurants for a menus. Ideal with children’s 98. p. day on the beach. See of one of the little coves Gemlik, is beautifully of Marmara, the Sea for and great soft and sandy, 98. p. building sandcastles. See Erdek Beach Erdek Kumla Beach Solar Beach The Princes’ Islands The Marmara Region Kinaliada, Heybeliada, Büyükada Kinaliada, Heybeliada, which lie within and Burgazada, an easy ferry Istanbul, ride from finest beaches some of the have and watersport opportunities in 67. p. See Turkey. for sports-minded children with for sports-minded children everything windsurfing from and jet skiing to basketball, soc- go-karting and rollerboard- cer, 65. p. See ing to enjoy. , which lies a go at ice-skating at the show by the Whirling the by show but there are also cycling routes also cycling are but there See and a lighthouse to explore. 65. p. short the city in the hop from offers a Feneri, village of Rumeli as a family place to relax great out the country, but particularly out the country, 204. p. See Turkey. in central Dervishes who perform one of the age-old dances of the Anatolia held through- are Shows region. Olympic-size rink in Belpa. See rink in Belpa. Olympic-size 221. p. BEST BEACHES & WATERSPORTS Istanbul Cove Marmarcik The rock formations at Cappadocia The rock in Ankara. Museum Locomotive 217. p. See Having a Seeing a 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 11 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage12

12 1 Family Highlights of Turkey See p. 128. shallow.ming asthewaterisvery are cleanandare safeforswim- they are goodforchildren asthey BothBlueBodrum. Flag beaches, beaches around theBitez area of pieces. See p. 99. jagged edgesonthemarble beach justincasethere are any your children wear shoesonthe It maybeagoodideatoensure chunks ofitonthewater’s edge. its marble,you canseelotsof Bandirma isagem.Famous for Island thatliesoffErdek and its softsand.See p. 129. hoursbuildingsandcastlesin few be completewithoutspendinga area oftheAegean region would No visittotheBodrum ilies. and mostpopularbeachforfam- The GulfofEdremit Marble Beach Gümbet Beach See p. 129. Then itwasknown asSalmakis. much hespentmanydaysthere. Hermafrodit, wholikeditso times by themalefairy was given itsname inancient According tolegend, thebeach Bardakçi BeachinBardakçi Beach Aktur BeachandHalikarya The AegeanRegion trees. See p. 98. Burhaniye thatare linedby olive Akçay, Edremit, Ören and string ofbeachesinplaceslike of thesea’s coves andhasawhole are justtwoofthemany on Marmara is theliveliest is another p. 130. catering forsmallappetites.See shallow watersanditseateries its soft,whitesand,cleanand families withchildren becauseof great forsandcastles.See p. 159. pretty andquiet,itssandis beside theMediterranean. It is coves thatdotthecoastline numerous gloriousbeachesand off itsquayside.See p. 130. of theSporat Group. They liejust wish toseesomeofthe14islands Konyaalti Beach The Mediterranean Ortakent Beach Kargi KoyuBeach Turgutreis Kadikale Resortbeachin Iztuzu BeachatDalyan Ilica Beach Lara Beach like aquieterbeach.See p. 131. andthebestoptionthat Bodrum, the secondlongestbeachin watersports onoffer.watersports See p. 159. super-safe watersandlotsof other. Althoughpebbly, ithas barely seeoneendfrom the beach imaginable–you can one ofthelargeststretches of boat triptoit.See p. 130. kept secrets, butyou cangeta Cove isoneofthearea’s best- nearby. See p. 130. The area’s famousmudbathsare with littlenearby development. government-protected beach gered caretta caretta It turtle. isa nesting ground fortheendan- is theplaceifyou in Çe is justoneof at Ortakent is at Ortakent @ at Antalyais me attracts , KargiKoyu is a Best Parks & Zoos 13 in Sinop u Beach g , located a stone’s in Istanbul is a large in Istanbul Black Sea region, with soft sand region, Sea Black and safe waters in which to 188. p. swim. See are private and relaxing private are with back- and mountain their coves 188. p. See drop. and Bahçeler Beach area of rivers, lakes and gardens lakes and of rivers, area of the most that contain hundreds Miniaturk The Karagöl Kumlu & ZOOS BEST PARKS Istanbul Gülhane Park a little and escape the hustle and The bustle of central Istanbul. aquarium, off to one side of the is especially popular with park, 68. p. See youngsters. throw from the Topkapi Palace Topkapi the from throw in what was once part of its walk is a place to relax, grounds, at are are clean are is worth visit- , with its lagoon of some of the best beaches in the ing if only to see its outstanding and the nearby of trees backdrop See ancient site of Olymbos. 159. p. The Giresun Beaches The Giresun Olymbos Beach The Black Sea Region The Beaches at Rize Moonlight Park Beach is wonderfulKemer for lively a sandy beach, a With families. dolphinarium club, children’s with bottlenose dolphins and there’s open-air amphitheatre, 159. p. always lots happening. See Ölü Deniz Ölü Deniz beach turquoise sea and white beaches, turquoise place in is arguably the prettiest safe for waters are Its Turkey. 159. p. swimming. See and sandy, and lie next to hotels and sandy, in this popular and restaurants 188. p. See town. holiday resort 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 13 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage14

14 1 Family Highlights of Turkey See p. 101. pelicans andspoonbillstosee. birds. There are flamingos, family are lovers ofwildlifeand place tovisitifyou andyour Bursa’s silktrade.See p. 101. being inthearea known for Marmara region. It isfamedas ered athemedpark inthe areasfew thatcouldbeconsid- Entertainment Park The FeshaneChildren’s Sea regions. See p. 68. the Anatolia,Aegean andBlack that sitalongsidethosefoundin landmark buildings ofIstanbul favourite withchildren. See the Turkey –allinminiature; itisa famous historicalmonumentsin Yildiz Park advanced. See p. 102. forthemorealongside runs Mountains andare offered The Uluda The Ku Koza Park The MarmaraRegion Park have beencreated intheUluda slopes forbeginnersandchildren themedarea.winter sport Ski aimed atchildren. See p. 68. gramme ofevents andfestivals ground games,plus aregular pro- family. There are ridesandplay- hoursasa place tospendafew for littleappetites.See p. 102. Park Tea Gardens withgoodies activities andthefamous Yildiz There’s aboatinglakeforwater place forchildren tounwind. in Balikesir isagreat @ Cenneti National g in Bursa isoneofa in Bursa isagreat National Park is aperfect is a g amenities. See p. 134. an amusementpark amongstits children’s playground, zoo and largest park inIzmir, ithasa ily funofadifferent sort. The children too. See p. 164. There are hands-onexhibitsfor such asdeerandmountaingoats. habitat formanytypesofanimals been created toprovide anatural p. 162. dren canswimwithdolphins.See while atDolphinland your chil- and slides,poolswatersports, teenagers. There are waterflumes for children from totsthrough to connected andofferhoursoffun two themeparks thatare inter- Aqualand andDolphinland The Mediterranean Kültürpark in Atlantis Waterpark park andSeapark Adaland Aquapark,Dolphin- The AegeanRegion Düzlerçami Park ages. See p. 132. great daysoutforchildren ofall tance ofeachother, theyoffer and locatedwithinwalkingdis- by thesamecompany fish. Allrun phins orseeingbrightlycoloured wave pools,swimming withdol- are forchildren perfect wholove popular touristspot.See p. 133. Atlantis ofthis Beach intheheart and teenagers.It liesbesidethe Internet caféforolderchildren amusement arcade andan ming poolsgalore, plusan is anotheraquapark withswim- Izmir offersfam- in Antalyahas in Ku in Marmaris @ adası are Best Natural Wonders 15 at links the around Lake around can be reached splits the city i National Park g Galata Bridge, and see the city Bridge, Galata could You another angle. from one of the chil- stop off at even that line parks playground dren’s edge, or take a walk to its water’s of the remains see the nearby 66. p. city walls. See Aegean Sea with the Black Sea with the Black Sea Aegean Your via the Bosphorus strait. looking out to will love children ships freight of see the dozens of water. this stretch that pass by 66. p. See in two and a boat trip is a must in two and a boat trip side is the One when in Istanbul. while the Istanbul, European The two sides are other is Asian. two bridges, the linked by the Faith and Bosphorus Bridge other- Bridge, Mehmet Sultan as the Bosphorus II wise known 67. p. See Bridge. Çanakkale is known for its hot Çanakkale is known and landscape, springs, parklands Sapanca, which lies in a basin-like Sapanca, within the Saman created area place is a lovely range, Mountain picnicking to go boating, cycling, 99. p. and walking. See The Arifiye Forest The Kaz Da The Sea of Marmara The Marmara Region Marmara Island The Bosphorus by boat from Erdek or Bandirma. Erdek boat from by to see the fish and go ashore See the marble for which the island is lots of restau- are There famed. so children rants that welcome 66. p. make a day of it. See up in near in in central Ankara is one of the most popular with residents and visitors to the city. are Among the activities offered boating on the lake, tennis, swim- dining in one ming and al fresco 212. p. of its outside cafes. See the Golden Horn, under the Horn, the Golden Take a little pleasure craft a little pleasure Take Youth Park Youth BEST NATURAL WONDERS Istanbul Ankara & the Anatolia Region Atatürk Farm and Zoo The Black Sea Region The Black Sea Park The Karagöl National Waterplanet Aquapark Waterplanet Artvin has cycle routes and nature and routes Artvin has cycle forest trails that meander past is a won- and alpine lakes. It areas 188. p. derful space for walks. See and of parkland Ankara has acres con- zoo Its to explore. orchards tains many species of animals and mammals, and is ideal for a day in special they live out to see how enclo- controlled environmentally ice A farm sells the great sures. 212. p. made on site. See cream Alanya and Side offers everything Side Alanya and for chil- 23 slides designed from ages, pools and the of all dren artificialchance to raft on an river pro- disco and a to a children’s 164. p. See gramme of fun events. 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 15 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage16

16 1 Family Highlights of Turkey mosaics. See p. 131. an ancienttheatre andsome out away. You willbeabletosee the water’s ifyou snorkel surface can stillbeseenjustunder ruins ancient cityofMyndos andits gem. It standsonthesiteof family picnics.See p. 164. out andisapopularspotfor beside. It makesanunusualday deep crevice thatyou canwalk Düzlerçami Park isanamazingly and picnichere. See p. 99. tain range. You canrideahorse Karaada Island Dilek NationalPark The AegeanRegion including theKazDa actually walkbehindthecascade are nottobemissed–you can The UpperDüdenWaterfalls The KelebeklarVadisi Güver Canyon The Mediterranean The Village ofGümü and alongbeaches.See p. 133. loping amongforest, parkland in Turkey. See wildhorsesgal- is oneofthelargestnaturalparks Deniz. See p. 160. Europe, thelagoonatÖlü most photographedbayin day. Closeby is,arguably, the activity todoonafamilyholi- Fethiye isanabsoluteessential Valley ofButterflies, near as well ashealthy. See p. 131. mud andthermalspringsare fun of coves andcaves toexplore. Its one oftheprettiest areas withlots near thefamous at Karaadais g , Ku i moun- @ lük , The = adası, is a whitewater rafting.Seewhitewater p. 189. or enjoy like river watersports families thatliketogorambling zon. It makesagreat dayoutfor an alpinelakenotfarfrom Trab- So Mount Ararat Region Ankara &theAnatolia Uzungöl The BlackSeaRegion Tlos Göreme othervillages andafew surrounding thevillageof The CappadocianLandscape ural environment. See p. 211. ing dayswiththefamilyinanat- trails, cycling andspendingrelax- trekking trips,following nature and picnicareas. It isgreat for sprawling area ofparkland, forest kilometres ofAnkara,isa north Pegasus. See p. 160. the mythologicalwingedhorse It’s alsosaidtobethehomeof all ages–mumsanddadstoo. novel, willcaptivate children of Potterstraight outofaHarry looks asthoughitshouldcome waters subsided.See p. 210. place ofNoah’s Ark whenthe peak andsaidtobetheresting Turkey. It isthecountry’s highest above theplainsofcentral volcano thatrisesalarmingly it isknown, isamassive extinct p. 161. straight down tothesea.See Düden Waterfalls, whichdrop of water. Closeby are theLower g uksu NationalPark , whichhasarock facethat , known asLongLake,is , orA g ri Da , afew g i as Best Museums & Historic Sites 17 is one , along with Pullman carriage. You have to have You carriage. Pullman to get a ‘submarine’ pass through fun. to the toilets, which is great 74. p. See leries of classical archaeology, ceramics, Byzantine Turkish artefacts and tiles, and exhibitions telling the story of Istanbul the ages, the museum through has something for everyone. See 73. p. The Blue Mosque Suleymaniye Mosque Museum The Archaeological is both educational in Istanbul a children’s With and fun. plus gal- museum and play area, of Istanbul’s great buildings. great of Istanbul’s Suley- the Sultan by Founded in the man the Magnificent life would how 1500s, it shows city in times been in the have A former school, gone by. kitchen and a bath house are 71. p. within its walls. See the magnificent Haghia Sophia the magnificent Haghia is a your children (the Naval that follow a theme – for exam- that follow trains sits ple a collection of toy a in a space that resembles delight – see dolls that date from the 19th century and a tiny The 1817. violin from French housed in rooms displays are Deniz Muzesi a chance to see artefacts from days of the seafaring Turkey’s past, including cannons and bells and even anchors, pictures, 73. p. of ships. See the remains Istanbul Toy Museum Mount Ararat of cen- in the Cappadocia region Tall is astonishing. Turkey tral been created formations have rock as the known time and are over 209. p. See Chimneys’. ‘Fairy BEST MUSEUMS & HISTORIC SITES Istanbul Museum) will give will give Museum) 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 17 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage18

18 1 Family Highlights of Turkey extraordinary experience.Seeextraordinary p. 72. visiting.It’sbut well worth an subtly litandreally quitespooky, complex ofcisternsthatare dark, steps down toanunderground them –sobewarned. You take fascinate your children orscare Basilica Cistern)willeither h eeaa Sarayi The Yerebatan buildings. See p. 71. sheer size oftheseoutstanding alike willbeenchantedby the for miles.Adults andchildren its sixminarets thatcanbeseen especially theBlue Mosque with over alltheotherbuildings, Sultanahmet Square. They tower see’ landmarks, standin church, bothIstanbul’s ‘must- Topkapi Palace,Istanbul (the dens. See p. 72. numerous courtyards andgar- treasures canbeseen,and where valuable gemsandsultans’ of armsandarmoury, atreasury Imperial costumes,acollection exhibitions ofminiatures and series ofpavilions,ithasseparate avisit.Madewell worth upofa Topkapi Palace in KültürPark The Archaeological Museum The MarmaraRegion Roman periods.See p. 106. from theOttoman, Byzantine and statues andtools,aswell asarmour, armour. On displayare weaponry, if your familyloves ceremonial , Bursa, isamust in Istanbul is Best Museums & Historic Sites 19 in me is a @ in Çe , is an important is an early version of is an early version has some quite is one of the most is one of the adası Train Museum adası Train @ adası has around 30 loco- adası has around @ me Kalesi @ and once-beautiful ancient city and once-beautiful of Temple and site of the famous 137. p. See Trajan. outstanding exhibits found the Ottoman, dating from locally, periods. and Persian Byzantine Although not strictly speaking a spa town dating from before dating from a spa town 137. p. See the time of Christ. The Mediterranean Fethiye Archaeological Museum Pergamum Çe intact 16th-centuryremarkably will children castles that your was built to It to explore. love pirates. from the town protect a good nautical there’s Inside, 135. p. museum. See Tomb King Mausoleus’s one of the Bodrum is considered of the Ancient Wonders Seven for families that great It’s World. See like history and archaeology. 137. p. The Ku in Ku Ephesus Hierapolis motives dating back decades in motives its sprawling open-air display. will be delighted children Your to see, touch and climb aboard 140. p. them. See famous and best-preservedfamous and ancient not world and should cities in the of Artemis Temple The be missed. of the Wonders is one of the Seven See 136. p. Ancient World. in Bilecik, in Iznik in Iznik in Adapazari, Sakarya, in Adapazari, in Çanakkale is a must is located within its üt Museum g to visit, with displays ranging tools, toys, fossils, children’s from items from to household weapons to more past civilisations up 107. p. times. See recent in Edirne. Mosque Selimiye great the shields will love boys Your 109. p. battles. See used in various The Turkish Islamic Art The Turkish Museum The Aegean Region When it comes to astonishingly offers historic sites, the Aegean of the the best, including three World of the Wonders Ancient and Hierapolis at Ephesus, Pergamum. The Iznik Museum The Sö The Çanakkale Archaeological Museum The Atatürk and Ethnography The Atatürk Museum celebrates the craft of producing the blue-and-white tiles, plates and pots seen throughout as Iznik and known Turkey will love ceramics. Children See the collection of miniatures. 108. p. is a fascinating museum that tells museum that is a fascinating the storythe founder of Atatürk, is It Republic. Turkish of the and educational. both interesting 108. p. See in the Sakarya Valley, tells how Valley, in the Sakarya during the lived residents also a There’s Empire. Ottoman busts of collection of life-size Turkey’s from famous figures 108. p. See history. 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 19 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage20

20 1 Family Highlights of Turkey Suna-Inan KiracMuseum Side Museum the family. See p. 167. should interest oldermembersof tailored tochildren, themuseum The Giresun Fortress Kastamonu Castle The BlackSeaRegion some energy. See p. 168. gardens iftheyneedtoburnoff family interested, plusthere are the youngest membersofthe exhibits thatwillhelptokeep children’s sectionhasinteractive from theancient cityofPerge. A tory. Highlights includefinds insight totheregion’s richhis- in Antalyagives awonderful The Archaeological Museum explore. See p. 190. is openforyour children to Trabzon inthe12thcentury, and built by thefamilywhoruled powerful tradingcentre. It was the timewhentown wasa Caldariums. See p. 167. Frigidariums, Tepidariumsand spend theirleisure timein residents ofthepastwould tional Roman Baths, ittellshow in whatwasatonetimeafunc- fascinating. See p. 168. of story Turkish coffee,whichis One room, forexample,tellsthe issues inthe Turkish culture. with areas dedicatedtospecific the 19thand20thcenturies, Antalya offersdisplayscovering looking thebeachesatGiresun. crown atthetopofahillover- is agem.Housed dates from sits likea in eerie. See p. 215. way underground. It’s quite rooms, kitchensandlivingareas persecution. You canseebed- thousands ofChristiansfleeing of heart Turkey thatoncehoused two underground citiesinthe Mosque, anditspark. See p. 207. mosques, suchastheAlaeddin still existtoday, itsimportant old Ottoman-style housesthat avisit,ifonlytoseethe worth The AncientCityofKonya Kaymakli andDerinkuyu Region Ankara &theAnatolia Trabzon Castle The HaghiaSophia The CitadelatAnkara Ottoman periods. See p. 192. the Byzantine, Commageneand hill, dominatesthecity. It isfrom sight and,beingonthetopofa p. 193. wall paintingsin Turkey. See inside andseesomeofthebest the Black Sea region. Step churches-turned-museums in in Trabzon isoneofthebest Aya Sofya asitisknown locally, visit. See p. 213. interesting ofthecityto part within thewallsthatmakesitan traditional woodenhouses times, butitisthecollectionof before Roman andByzantine impressive anddatesfrom well youngsters and adults. See p. 190. the fortress isgreat funfor Climbing thehillandexploring is animpressive , orthe is pretty are is Best Coastal Towns 21 very popular with the largest coastal the Mediterranean’s pre- the Mediterranean’s its small castle, the ruins of two and a few caves. fortresses rock 184. p. See as mums and dads can learn how clubs, or to play at the various at one of sev- indulge in a round are There eral top-notch courses. and clubs, restaurants children’s 155. p. See shopping malls too. mier golf resort. Children as well Children mier golf resort. town on the Mediterranean coast- on the Mediterranean town is elegant with tree-lined line. It and has developed avenues its gloriously quaint old around as Kaleiçi. Child- quarter known the down to wander will love ren an There’s little streets. old town’s and a couple of zoo aquapark, 155. p. good beaches. See holidaying families from Bodrum is Antalya is Belek is some of the a pretty town sur- town a pretty a harbourside town longest and sandiest beaches in and, as such, Turkey the whole of a as is guaranteed its reputation boat are There holiday hotspot. trips, attractions and restaurants with special menus for children 122. p. hooked. See to keep you Altinkum has Amasra is Colourful lamps at Fethiye Bazaar BEST COASTAL TOWNS Akçakoca is many centuries. Your children Your many centuries. the chance to explore will love that can trace its history back from which little boats can be from 184. p. for watersports. See hired rounded by hazelnut orchards to orchards hazelnut by rounded region. Sea of the Black the west and has some good hotels It beside its beaches, a restaurants and a harbour castle to explore 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 21 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage22

22 1 Family Highlights of Turkey p. 125. a goodchoiceofhotelstoo. See gered caretta caretta It turtle. has nesting ground totheendan- pretty, protected Iztuzu Beach, a that datebackcenturiesandthe thermal mudbaths,rock tombs stretch ofcoastlinefamedforits relatively compact,Çe from itsgardens. Attractive and and thetown seemstoradiate Peter perches onitsquayside, for swimming.Its CastleofSt tacular beachesandsafewaters Çanakkale, which Ancient World. See p. 123. one oftheSeven Wonders ofthe mausoleum ofKingMausolos, castle. It isthelocationof around itscoves anditsfairytale low-level buildingsthatsnake characterised by itsmassofwhite mer months.It islarge,lively and throughout Europe inthesum- Dalyan andDalaman Çe museum too. See p. 92. goodarchaeological particularly your children willlove. There’s a Seddul Bahir Castle,allofwhich Castle, KilitbahirCastleand ÇimenlikFortress,century Bigali fortresses, includingthe15th- also hassomefascinating modelatHisarlik.struction It the battlesof Troy. See arecon- links withthe Trojan Horse and Marmara region, isfamousforits side theDardanelle Straits inthe p. 125. festivals duringtheyear. See international musicandart cultural edgeandhostsseveral @ me is famed foritsspec- lies along- @ are inthe me hasa See p. 126. sion shouldbeinaplayroom. that looksasifaminiature ver- to hundreds ofbirds andafort Pigeon Island ispretty and home the quaysideover acauseway: that rests justawalkawayfrom beaches, coves andtheisland facilities, alongwithitsBlue Flag known foritsoutstandingdiving It port. marina andcruise-ship is hotspot thatrevolves around its See p. 126. hotels andholidaycomplexes. beaches anditsgoodchoiceof known foritslively nightlife, makers by theplane-load.It is politan feelandattractsholiday- Today ithasamodern,cosmo- Dorian cityinancienttimes. Tekirova are nearby. See p. 157. The smallerresorts ofBeldibi and dren toswimandhave funin. pebbly, itswatersare safeforchil- glorious Kemer Beach. While its finerestaurants, marinaandits Mediterranean resort, notedfor Ku Kemer is Fethiye lies Marmaris family excursion. See p. 155. cliffs. This placeisidealfora out fortheLycian tombsinthe that nestleinawidebay. Look good beachesandsafewaters Paspatur district,alongwith out. It hasalively bazaarinthe both ofwhichofferagoodday and theancientsiteofXanthos, to themightySaklikent gorge coastal regions meet.It isclose Mediterranean andtheAegean @ adası is a sophisticated was animportant where the a populartourist Best Inland Experiences 23 , an extraordinary one of the busiest and a bustling city, but a bustling city, nos Bridge. See p. 186. p. See nos Bridge. g your children will love to be will love children your are There photographed with. Ottoman also some interesting buildings and mosques, and long 96. p. sandy beaches to visit. See seum, the Ethnography Museum seum, the Ethnography of Museum and the impressive Anatolian Civilizations. See 205. p. offers several good museums such offers several Mu- and Sculpture as the Painting Cappadocia Trabzon is Trabzon BEST INLAND EXPERIENCES Ankara is most historic coastal cities in the offers every It region. Sea Black amenity for holidaying families, Castle, including Trabzon mosques and museums such as (Haghia Aya Sofya the great like the and landmarks Sophia) Za volcanic landscape, is where you landscape, is where volcanic formations can see the rock Chimneys’. as the ‘Fairy known out and hollowed were Some for being the adasi on the banks of @ on the coast in the lies a gorgeous town full of a gorgeous town g its Temple of Apollo, a landmark of Apollo, Temple its 157. p. attraction. See character. It sits, primarily, It character. within historic city walls that stand on a headland overlooking the sea. Along with glorious sandy beaches, it offers one of the most memorable sights along coast – a the Mediterranean and theatre Hellenistic massive Sinop, famous Tekirda Side is Pigeon Island, Ku lies Ordu Marmara region. It is famous for It region. Marmara its seemingly endless fields of that sunflowers bright yellow the Sea of Marmara in the of Marmara the Sea holiday resort at most times of the holiday resort when it in September except year, bursts into life for the Golden 186. p. See Festival. Hazelnut Black Sea region surrounded by surrounded region Sea Black and is a sleepy orchards hazelnut birthplace of Sinope, the mytho- birthplace of Sinope, logical leader of the Amazon warriors, stands in a little natural of fishing and harbour with rows has some good boats. It leisure to enjoy. areas beaches and forest 186. p. See 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 23 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage24

24 1 Family Highlights of Turkey here exploring.See p. 170. Families spendthewholeday tourist attractionandpicnicspot. region’s coast.It isnow apopular Fethiye ontheMediterranean in themountainsidehighabove narrow, exceptionally deepgorge ing sight.Icy watershave cuta limestone See p. 132. springs fell,leavingdepositsof created over centuriesashot Travertine Cascades,orsteps, You canalsoseetheastonishing Hierapolis thatliesbehindit. belong totheancientcityof under thesurface. The remains columns andfrescos thatlie rest your bodyagainstancient bathe inhotthermalwatersand astonishing site,where you can inland from Marmaris, isan Pamukkale Köprülü Canyon height. See p. 205. are over 40metres (130ft)in inhabited formanyyears. Some Selçuk Castle Saklikent Gorge has visitedthesite.See p. 138. believed tohave died. The Pope site where the Virgin was Mary the timeofChrist.Nearby isthe John theEvangelist lived during Selçuk, issaidtobewhere St the topofAyasulukHill near safaris. See p. 160. area isgoodforpicnicsandjeep too,andtheimmediate sports kayaking. There are otherwater- love togowaterraftingand your olderchildren andteenagers region, istheplacetoheadif Antalya intheMediterranean , whichliesalittle , whichstandson , notfarfrom is anoutstand- and bazaars.See p. 186. Ottoman mansions, mosques wooden preserved beautifully Black Sea region of Turkey. It has and a‘must’ onanyvisitto the UNESCO WorldHeritagesite p. 105. friendly. See p. 217. area andcaféare family- World War II.Anexhibition include modelsusedduring of vintagesteamtrainsthat The KarainCave Lake Sapanca. See p. 99. plus wateractivitiesonthehuge areas andnature trailstoenjoy, family outing. There are picnic lies atitsfootformapopular exploring theArifye Forest that in theMarmara region and The Great SamanMountains The CityofSafranbolu The Be Ankara The LocomotiveMuseumin been foundhere. See p. 169. the Mediterranean region have the oldestarchaeological findsin it isagreat experience.Some of members ofthefamily, exploring young children, butforolder it’scertainly notsuitablefor not beeveryone’s choice,and interconnecting chambers,may around theyear 553 Marmara region andwasbuilt known. It islocatedinthe River asitisoften or theSakarya and spanstheSangarious River, Be are keenonphotography. The agenda ifyou and your children Adapazari shouldfeature inyour @ köprü Bridge haseightarches @ has agreat collection köprü Bridge , with its AD . See at is a Best Accommodation 25 in the in Elmadag National Park near Park National g given crayons, drawing paper crayons, given to make their and stuffed toys are stay special, plus parents with suggested itineraries given that might details of attractions of all ages. youngsters interest 80. p. See your youngsters will be spoilt for youngsters your also has a children’s choice. It among its amenities. play facility 80. p. See offers lotssecurity of safety and stay in your extras to help make are Children the city stress-free. The Marmara Region Hotel The Grand Yazici and as children welcomes Bursa, lots of amenities such provides summer months for them. In swimming play areas, are there pools and sports such as The Ritz-Carlton Uluda , g , a mod- National Park National g region, is great for families. In for is great region, lots of country- are summer there like ram- side activities to enjoy bling, swimming, birdwatching, games and pic- outdoor cycling, it is nics, while in the winter Turkey’s of transformed into one The slopes skiing resorts. premier on the side of the Uluda are near Bursa in the Marmara near Bursa BEST ACCOMMODATION Istanbul The Mövenpick Hotel Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Istanbul Mountain. Whatever time of Whatever Mountain. always visit there’s you year 102. p. See something to do. The Uluda ern hotel in the Levent district ern hotel in the Levent selection has a great of the city, of pizzas and its famous ice so menu, on its children’s cream 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 25 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage26

26 1 Family Highlights of Turkey site. See p. 112. dren’s menusandapatisserieon has restaurants withspecialchil- vided onrequest, plusthehotel chairs andbuggiesare allpro- Princes’ Islands. Cots,high side onHeybeliada, oneofthe tion justahopfrom thequay- loca- building, hasawonderful chateau-style historic, colourful The MeritHalkiPalace albeit onagrandscale.See p. 112. hotel resembles analpinechalet, will alsolove thefactthat the area isknown. Your children totheskislopesforwhich port while inwinteritprovides trans- basket h itnIzmir The Hilton The BabaylonHotel The AegeanRegion Bay, Çe Sakiz Island from itsÇiftlikköy playground. See p. 144. amusements andachildren’s sprawl ofparkland withazoo, from theKültürpark, alarge walk The hotelislocatedashort andchildren’sservice menus. ababysitting video hire service, special familypackagerates,a for families.Amongthemare city ofIzmir offersmanyservices p. 144. children andteenagerstoo. See There’s adiscothèqueforolder play areas, gardens andpools. and specialevents tochildren’s with aprogramme ofworkshops amenities from a children’s club of complex, itoffersallsorts ball forthemtoenjoy, @ me location.Alarge in thebusy overlooks , an child-sized portions. Seechild-sized portions. p. 175. inadult-and the worldisserved and dads.Cuisine from around health andfitnesssuiteformums of swimmingpools,andagreat older children andteenagers,lots for young children, for sports break. There are playamenities region andisidealforafamily Beach intheMediterranean appetites. See p. 173. including onetailored forsmall and choosefrom several menus, around apoolin thesummer, Families candinealfresco features andlotsofstonework. traditional décorwithwooden including afamilyroom, offer mansion. Its guestrooms, Ottoman-style 18th-century hotelhousedinan acterful Mediterranean region, isachar- ofAntalyainthe the oldquarter The CinciHanHotel The BlackSeaRegion The HotelAlpPasainKaleiçi Spa The Concorde Resortand The Mediterranean h eiklTurkish Hotel The Demirkol centre closetothe ofArtvin, a traditional-stylehotelinthe of Safranbolu. See p. 195. heart central locationinthevery playground, specialmenusanda dren’s club, babysitting anda suchasachil- it offersservices centuries ago. Aluxurioushotel, vansaray forpassingmerchants housed intheformercara- Safranbolu isfamousforbeing stands rightbesideLara in is , Best Eating Out Options 27 over- Your kebabs . in the cul- kebabs çiç a stylish, more Dönar , a type of stew in Iznik will delight in Iznik made with lamb and tomatoes. 113. p. See tural park, the Kültür Park, in the Kültür Park, tural park, comprising offers mezes Bursa 20 to 25 little dishes of local fussiest your delicacies – even child should find something that dishes suits their taste. Other and include salads, vegetables The Yusuf Restoran The Yusuf children with open arms. The open arms. with children helpful. staff is friendly and menu, a special children’s There’s chocola- and it has an in-house 82. p. See terie and patisserie too. The Beyaz Restaurant The Marmara Region Kenan Çorba ve Izgara Salonu bamya bastisi BEST EATING OUT BEST EATING OPTIONS Istanbul Geziistanbul is that style of restaurant upmarket and Square, Taksim overlooks it welcomes despite appearances your children if genuine kebabs children your The bright and a favourite. are in the heart of restaurant lively servesthe town looks the Marmara Sea and is Sea looks the Marmara the fish market right by children will love the chance to will love children fish and see it pick out their own this being cooked and then follow up with a rather delicious home- 82. p. made crème brulée. See (cubes of meat on skewers), along with local dishes such as (sliced meat) and in , a boutique Ankara is a beautiful hotel in the of the city that offers centre everything need for a family you – good holiday with children location, good facilities and good 222. p. accommodation. See quality. Lots of special ameni- quality. for children. offered ties are 223. p. See hotel created within a natural hotel created Cappadocia, at Ürgüp, cave children’s capture will really The views as imaginations. high the facilities are as well Büyükhanli Park Hotel The Serinn Hotel Traditional Turkish tea set Turkish Traditional museum. little Georgian town’s and children welcomes It offers a swimming pool for your little ones, special menus and in the and cycling trekking Park. Karagöl National nearby 194. p. See Ankara & the Anatolia Region 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/08 8:11 PM Page 27 Page PM 8:11 9/24/08 04_518823-ch01.qxp 04_518823-ch01.qxp 9/24/088:11PMPage28

28 1 Family Highlights of Turkey See p. 146. of themainmealsforchildren. team ishappytoprepare versions twist,andits with anàlacarte dishes are pure Turkish, albeit eldest’s forexample.Its birthday special evening out, foryour and isagreat placetodinefora gourmet-stylecuisine gant, serves the seafront atMarmaris isele- dishes. See p. 175. selectionofvegetarian hearty Italy, kebabsfrom Turkey anda tacos from Mexico, pizzasfrom music andamenuthatincludes ing onitsbigscreen, dancing, restaurant show- withcartoons harbour atAlanyaisafun local disheslike withauthenticsauces,and served sine. Grilled meatsandfishare meze oftraditional Turkish cui- a goodplaceforgreat family is off theharboursideatBodrum, The Gemiba The AegeanRegion or alfresco style.See p. 113. grills, whichcanbeeateninside The MoonlightRestaurant La LunaRestaurant The Mediterranean The MonaTittiRestaurant p. 146. aredesserts onthemenutoo. See a speciality. Kebabs anddelicious the sungodown. The cuisineis for afamilyoutingandwatching and seaatSide, soit’s convenient situated overlooking thebeach @ i Restaurant Levrek pilakisi in the , just on is are p. 196. suit your children atreat. See Bright andwelcoming, itshould anchovy, astapleofthearea. area. Pizza toppings include some ofthebestfastfoodin option forfamilies.See p. 223. pleasing andwholesomemeal own meze selection,provide a where grillsandkebabs,plusits housed inanhistorichouse elegant yet informalrestaurant welcomes children. See p. 224. top-notch French cuisine.It Elai, aneleganteaterieserving They usuallystayawhileinthe miles toseetherock formations. with peoplewhohave travelled lage, whichisalwaysbuzzing located inthecentre ofthevil- Elai Restaurant Region Ankara &theAnatolia Sofrasi The Kadio Restaurant Tad PizzaandBurger The BlackSeaRegion Restaurant Selcuklu Beykonagi comes children. See p. 196. the menu.It wel- particularly and authentic Turkish disheson and fish,vegetarian, àlacarte bazaar inSafranbolu, hasgrills flavour. See p. 176. ice creams in,itseems,every children willlove thechoiceof largely fish-based,andyour , locatedrightnearthe @ lu Sehzade in Trabzonoffers, in Konya isan in Göreme is