From ancient history to heart-stopping rides, Izmir offers a banquet of delights for families. This third largest city in Turkey has a rich culture, blend of charm and modernity, plus a myriad of family-friendly attractions, sure to captivate children and adults alike. With sunshine spilling into its lively bazaars, Izmir is a cornucopia of family adventure that waits to be explored.
You don’t need to chip away at your coffers to find a snug and cosy place to lay your head. With our guide, you'll discover the best family-friendly hotels in Izmir, catering to every budget. Whether you fancy a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly inn, a beachfront resort or a quaint B&B nestled in a tranquil neighbourhood, we've got all your family’s accommodation needs covered. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let us help you plan your memorable Izmir holiday.
Things to do
Izmir brims with attractions and activities to ignite the imagination of every family member, from curious young explorers to seasoned culture vultures. Our round-up of things to do in Izmir allows you to tailor a memorable family trip full of adventures and discoveries.
- Introduce your family to the ancient Roman era by visiting the Agora Open Air Museum, a beautifully preserved space in the heart of the city that has been bringing history to life for countless generations.
- Don't miss the chance to explore Izmir Wildlife Park – a sanctuary of nature that hosts a multitude of species. Its extraordinary landscape and dedicated municipality service make it a perfect place for a family day out.
- For thrills and spills, head to Lunapark, Izmir's popular amusement park, chock-full of fun rides for all ages, guaranteed to bring laughter and adrenaline surges.
- The Izmir Mask Museum allows your family to delve into the traditions and cultures of various societies, through an intriguing collection of over 300 masks. The first of its kind in Turkey, it presents a unique educational and entertaining experience.
- Aqua City is Izmir's premier water park, blessed with numerous exciting water slides and pools. During Izmir's hot summer days, it's the ideal spot for families to cool off whilst having fun.
When to visit
When planning your journey to Izmir, seasonal considerations are key. With children in tow, finding a balance between avoiding potentially crushing summer crowds and ensuring good weather for outdoor adventures is critical. The best times, therefore, are during the transitional periods of spring and early autumn.
A stroll through the bustling bazaars or a leisurely day at Izmir Wildlife Park is best enjoyed when the temperatures are mild and pleasant, which is usually in early autumn (October) or spring. However, summer can offer a lively atmosphere with numerous events and its beaches brimming with larks. If you visit during winter, even when temperatures tend to drop below freezing, there are still multitudes of indoor activities to captivate the entire family. What's certain is that Izmir is a year-round family destination with enough charm to keep your spirits high, regardless of the thermometer's claims.
Things you'll love...
- Immerse your family in history with a visit to Izmir's breath-taking Roman-Age Agora Open Air Museum
- Imbue your children with a sense of wonder at the Izmir Wildlife Park, home to diverse species in beautiful surroundings
- Savour thrilling rides at Lunapark, Izmir's exciting amusement park
- Uncover the world of masks at the unique Izmir Mask Museum, perfect for imaginative minds
- Watch your children enjoy the water world at Aqua City, Izmir's fantastic water park
Main airport
- Izmir Adnan Menderes International Airport
