Turkey is a dream destination for a family holiday: long, hot summers, sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waters, friendly hospitality, delicious cuisine… The list goes on and on. The country is home to myriad resorts geared towards tourists, with all the amenities you could ever need for a hassle-free getaway with kids.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked some of the best areas in Turkey for a family holiday, whether you’re after all-inclusive luxury in a buzzing city or a boutique stay in a quiet harbour town. One thing’s for sure – you’ll want to come back!
The province of Antalya, named after its main city, is one of the most popular destinations along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. The city itself has a charming old town (Kaleiçi), a maze of narrow streets punctuated by soaring mosque domes and minarets and dotted with Roman and Ottoman ruins. The airport is right next door, so a holiday to Antalya is a great way to access the best beach resorts in Turkey for families, including Side, Belek, Lara Beach and many more.
Don't miss: Marmaris National Park for a mix of culture and outdoor fun.
Best for: Families who want diverse activities, from exploring ancient sites to enjoying nature trails.
Perched on Turkey’s west coast looking out towards the Dodecanese Islands, the Bodrum peninsula is undoubtedly one of the best areas in Turkey for a family holiday. The town, a popular yachting port, is home to the ruins of the Mausoleum (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) and an imposing castle that makes for a beautiful vista at sunset. Just along the coast, meanwhile, are the family-friendly beach resorts of Bitez and Gümbet.
Don't miss: Bodrum Castle and its underwater archaeology museum, a fascinating trip for all ages.
Best for: Family-friendly beaches and a mix of history, culture, and seaside fun.
Marmaris is another perennial favourite with families travelling to Turkey. The palm-fringed waterfront is lined with spacious hotels, and the resort area also includes the town of İçmeler across the bay (more on that later). Kids and adults alike will love admiring the sleek yachts in the pretty marina, and you can even take a ferry out to the Greek island of Rhodes if you fancy a change of scene.
Don't miss: Marmaris National Park, offering family hiking trails and picnic spots surrounded by nature.
Best for: Lively resorts with plenty of activities for kids, from waterparks to boat trips.
Turkey’s beach resorts are ideal for family holidays, combining stunning coastlines with facilities designed for all ages. From safe, sandy shores and calm, shallow waters to resorts offering kids’ clubs, waterparks, and family-friendly dining options, there’s something to delight everyone. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the sea or enjoy activities that keep the little ones entertained, these beach destinations ensure a stress-free and unforgettable getaway for the whole family.
Don't miss: Fethiye’s Ölüdeniz Beach with its calm lagoon, and Cesme’s Ilica Beach with warm, shallow waters.
Best for: Relaxing beach days in picturesque settings with plenty of family-friendly amenities.
Fethiye is one of the Turkish Riviera’s more under-the-radar destinations, but it’s a wonderful base for family holidays to Turkey. Tucked into a peaceful cove, it has excellent (and affordable) hotels, fantastic restaurants and plenty to do nearby. Visit the markets, stroll around the ancient ruins or take a boat trip to the stunning Butterfly Valley. You’re spoilt for choice with beaches too – as well as the town’s own beach, the famous beauty of Ölüdeniz is just a short drive away, while the more secluded (but no less beautiful) Kabak and Kidrak are also easily reachable.
Don't miss: Ölüdeniz Beach, famous for its calm, turquoise lagoon perfect for young swimmers.
Best for: Stunning natural beauty and kid-friendly beaches with gentle waves.
Kaş is a charming resort town centred around a harbour. Its winding streets are the perfect place for a stroll, while the marina area is buzzing with restaurants serving up tasty treats. There are several beaches within easy walking distance, while Kaputaş Beach (a 20-minute drive north) is a little strip of paradise at the foot of towering cliffs. Kids and adults alike will love taking a boat or kayak tour around the Sunken City of Kekova and exploring the rock tombs of Myra. Further afield, the Greek island of Kaştellorizo is just a 30-minute ferry ride away.
Don't miss: Kaputaş Beach, a small but picturesque cove ideal for a family day out.
Best for: Tranquil settings and snorkelling adventures the whole family can enjoy.
Right at the western tip of Turkey, the neighbouring towns of Alaçatı and Çeşme are a laid-back option for a family holiday. The shallow waters of Ilıca Beach make it perfect for little ones, but the Çeşme peninsula is also renowned for its surfing and windsurfing – great for any thrill-seekers in your family. Sights include sunset from the Alaçatı windmills and the majestic Çeşme Castle, while a local delicacy you won’t want to miss is mastic ice cream with its intriguing pine-like flavour.
Don't miss: Ilica Beach, known for its shallow, warm waters perfect for younger children.
Best for: Relaxing beach days with nearby amenities for families.
Turkey’s all-inclusive resorts are a top choice for families seeking convenience and comfort. With everything from delicious buffet meals and unlimited snacks to kids’ clubs and exciting on-site activities, these resorts make planning your holiday a breeze. Parents can relax knowing entertainment, dining, and even childcare are all taken care of, while children can enjoy waterparks, playgrounds, and fun-filled programmes. Perfect for families who want a stress-free getaway with everything included.
Don't miss: Lara Beach’s resort waterparks and Side’s beachside promenades perfect for family strolls.
Best for: Stress-free holidays with entertainment, dining, and activities all included.
A 20-minute drive from Antalya airport, Lara Beach is a wonderful resort for families. With some of the most luxurious hotels in Turkey, all the amenities you could ever want are on offer, from pools and spas to superb restaurants. Many hotels also offer kids’ clubs, so your little ones can stay entertained while you get a little bit of much-deserved me-time. On the Blue Flag beach, you’ll find showers, changing cabins, beach clubs and a whole host of water sports. For a day trip further afield, there are plenty of nearby theme parks and water parks, including The Land of Legends and Dinopark.
Don't miss: Resort waterparks and family-focused entertainment like evening shows and kids’ discos.
Best for: Stress-free holidays with everything from meals to activities included.
Located halfway between Antalya and Alanya, Side definitely makes the list of the best destinations for an all-inclusive holiday to Turkey. The highlight for families? Probably the sprawling sandy beach, which is lined with excellent hotels offering ultra-all-inclusive packages. With top-notch food and drink on tap, it might be hard to venture out of your accommodation. When you do, though, you’ll discover the charms of this historical town, including a well-preserved amphitheatre and the columns of the Temple of Apollo.
Don't miss: Exploring ancient ruins and the beachside promenade, great for family strolls.
Best for: Combining all-inclusive convenience with cultural sights and fun.
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