Planning a family vacation and wondering what to do in Antalya with kids? This beautiful Mediterranean city isn’t just about luxurious resorts and ancient ruins—it’s also one of the most family-friendly spots in Turkey. From interactive museums and water parks to kid-friendly dining and scenic walks, Antalya offers an unforgettable experience for travelers with children of all ages.
Whether you’re visiting with toddlers or teens, you’ll discover that Antalya is filled with attractions that educate, entertain, and energize young minds. And the best part? Many of these places are relaxing and rewarding for parents too.
Antalya Aquarium: A Giant Underwater Playground
A top contender for anyone asking what to do in Antalya with kids is the iconic Antalya Aquarium. It features over 40 themed aquariums, a massive 131-meter tunnel aquarium (one of the longest in Europe), and thousands of marine creatures.
Kids love the sharks, clownfish, and jellyfish, while adults appreciate the educational exhibits. You’ll also find Snow World, where kids can play in snow year-round, and Face2Face Wax Museum, filled with celebrity wax figures that both parents and teens enjoy.
You can plan your visit at antalyaaquarium.com.
Sandland: Giant Sculptures Made of Sand
If your kids enjoy building sandcastles, they’ll be amazed by Sandland, an annual International Sand Sculpture Festival held on Lara Beach. Artists from around the globe sculpt life-sized figures of dragons, dinosaurs, historical landmarks, and superheroes—all made entirely of sand.
Children can also join mini sand-sculpting workshops. The beach setting makes it ideal for late afternoon visits when the light is perfect and the heat starts to fade.
For schedules and highlights, check GoTürkiye’s Antalya page.
MiniCity Antalya: Turkey in Miniature
MiniCity is a delightful outdoor park filled with miniature replicas of Turkey’s most famous landmarks. From Pamukkale’s white cliffs to Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, your family can take a mini-tour of the whole country in under an hour.
Each model includes explanations in English, and there are plenty of benches, shaded areas, and even a snack café nearby. Great for young children and a nice way to sneak in some culture between beach days.
Kaleiçi Old Town: History for Kids with Ice Cream on Top
Kaleiçi, the heart of Antalya’s Old Town, offers cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture, and landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and the Yivli Minaret. But what makes it a favorite among families is its relaxed, walkable layout—and the dozens of Turkish ice cream vendors who love putting on a show.
Kids will giggle at the cone-twirling tricks while parents browse charming shops or sip Turkish coffee. Don’t miss a sunset photo by the harbor.
What to Do in Antalya with Kids: Best of the Best
If you’re narrowing down what to do in Antalya with kids, here are some high-impact, kid-approved spots:
The Land of Legends: A Theme Park Dream
Located in Belek (just outside of Antalya), The Land of Legends is often called Turkey’s version of Disneyland. With thrilling water rides, roller coasters, shopping boulevards, and live entertainment, it appeals to children and teens alike.
Younger kids enjoy the splash zones and character shows, while older ones head straight for the vertical drops and VR simulators. It also features family-friendly restaurants and stroller-friendly paths.
More info at thelandoflegendsthemepark.com.
Antalya Toy Museum: A Whimsical Walk Through Childhood
Curated by Turkish poet Sunay Akın, this charming museum in Kaleiçi features thousands of toys from the 1800s to today. You’ll see handcrafted dolls, wooden trains, and classic action figures from around the world.
Some rooms are designed to resemble fairy tales, and there are occasional storytelling events for kids. It’s small enough for a quick visit, but full of wonder.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Antalya
Antalya caters beautifully to families, offering delicious meals in relaxing spaces where kids are genuinely welcome.
Rokka Pizza Falafel
-
Address: Atatürk Cad. No: 15, Kaleiçi
-
Facebook: Rokka Kaleiçi
-
Price Range: $
-
Signature Dish: Falafel wraps with tahini
Perfect for vegetarians and picky eaters, with a relaxed setup and playful decor.
7 Mehmet
-
Address: Atatürk Kültür Parkı No:201
-
Website: 7mehmet.com
-
Price Range: $$$
-
Signature Dish: Grilled lamb with herbs
High-end, but still family-friendly. They offer highchairs and space for strollers.
Çıtır Balık
-
Address: Lara Caddesi No:223
-
Price Range: $$
-
Signature Dish: Grilled sea bass and rice
A casual seafood restaurant right by the beach with simple sides kids love.
Beaches & Nature Spots for Kids
Antalya’s coastline offers some of the best family beaches in Turkey:
-
Lara Beach: Sandy, shallow, and perfect for sandcastles.
-
Konyaaltı Beach: Pebbled and deep but has playgrounds and nearby cafes.
-
Eastern Lara Zone: Offers calm waters and family-only sections.
If you need a break from the beach:
-
Karaalioğlu Park: Shaded trees, flower beds, and fountains with plenty of space for a picnic or nap under the sun.
-
Düden Waterfalls: A beautiful walk leads behind cascading water—bring water shoes!
-
Tünektepe Cable Car: Ride up for panoramic views and sip juice at the hilltop café.
Suna & İnan Kıraç Kaleiçi Museum
Tucked inside a lovely old house, this museum highlights Turkish daily life in the Ottoman period. It’s a quick stop but surprisingly engaging for kids thanks to its realistic dioramas and peaceful courtyard.
It’s free to enter and a great cultural pause during a Kaleiçi walk.
FAQ About the Best Things to Do in Antalya with Kids
Q1: Do restaurants in Antalya provide highchairs or baby seats?
A1: Yes, most family-friendly restaurants offer highchairs or booster seats. It’s still a good idea to call ahead.
Q2: Are Turkish restaurants generally welcoming to kids?
A2: Absolutely. Turkish culture is family-oriented, and children are warmly welcomed in most eateries.
Q3: Can I find vegetarian or vegan options for my child?
A3: Yes. Many restaurants in Antalya, like Rokka and The Land of Legends, offer plant-based options perfect for kids.
Q4: Are there child portions or special kids’ menus?
A4: Some places have kids’ menus; others offer smaller or shareable portions upon request.
Q5: What’s the best time to eat out with kids in Antalya?
A5: Early evening (6–8 PM) is ideal, before the late-night dinner crowd arrives.
Q6: Are reservations necessary for family-friendly restaurants?
A6: For popular venues, yes—especially on weekends. Casual spots usually welcome walk-ins.
