Travelling with children makes details we rarely think about on adult trips important when choosing accommodation: are there enough beds for everyone, can you move around the streets comfortably with a pushchair, will you have to go far for dinner? Thanks to its central location and easy transport, Taksim is also a popular choice for families. In this post we have gathered tips to make a stay in Taksim with children easier.
Why do families choose Taksim?
The biggest challenge on a family city break is the need to take frequent breaks during the day. When you stay in Taksim, you do not need long journeys to get back to your hotel; thanks to metro, funicular and tram connections you can return from different parts of the city relatively quickly. The variety of restaurants, bakeries, grocery shops and pharmacies nearby also makes it easier to meet children's sudden needs.
A family room or two separate rooms?
The first decision when staying with children is the room layout. Many hotels offer family rooms suitable for three or four people. These usually have extra beds or separate sleeping areas alongside a double bed. Booking two separate rooms is also an option for larger families; in that case it is important to ask in advance whether the rooms can be on the same floor or next to each other.
At our hotel, families can choose the Family Room, groups of three the Triple Room and groups of four the Four Person Room. Compare all room types to choose the layout that best suits your family.
Questions to ask before booking
- Baby cot: Find out whether a cot is provided for small children and whether there is an extra charge.
- Child age policy: Hotels differ in their age limits and pricing for children.
- Breakfast: Ask whether breakfast is included in the price. At our hotel breakfast is charged extra and can be added to your stay if you wish.
- Airport transfer: Public transport with luggage and children can be tiring. A pre-arranged transfer makes the first hours of the trip easier.
- Flexible cancellation: Plans can change when travelling with children; knowing the cancellation terms in advance gives you peace of mind.
Getting around Beyoglu with a pushchair
Beyoglu is a historic and hilly district. Although Istiklal Avenue is pedestrianised and relatively flat, you will often come across steep slopes, narrow pavements and stairs in the side streets. So if you are travelling with young children, a light, foldable pushchair or a baby carrier makes things easier. Bearing in mind that Istiklal Avenue can be very crowded in the evening, try to plan outings for the quieter times of day.
Places to visit with children
There are many places easily reached from Taksim that children will enjoy too.
Parks and open spaces
Gezi Park, right next to the square, is a green space suitable for a short break and a run around. With a slightly longer walk or a short ride you can also reach Macka Park.
Museums
Istanbul Modern in Karakoy and the Rahmi M. Koc Museum on the shore of the Golden Horn are often recommended for family visits thanks to collections that capture children's interest. There are also exhibition spaces on Istiklal Avenue appealing to different interests.
A ferry ride
The ferries leaving from the Kabatas or Karakoy piers can be an adventure in themselves for children. Crossing the Bosphorus while watching the seagulls is also a pleasant way to see the city from a different angle.
You can browse other places near our hotel in the nearby places section of our home page.
Useful things to bring
A little preparation makes a big difference in meeting children's needs during a day in the city. Carrying water, snacks, wet wipes and a light cardigan for changes in the weather reduces the number of unplanned stops. In crowded places, putting a card with your contact details in a young child's pocket or bag helps in case you get separated. Avoiding rush hours on public transport also makes moving around with a pushchair easier and lets children enjoy the journey.
Building the day around children's rhythm
On city breaks with children, the best results come from keeping the programme short but rich. Planning one main activity a day and a rest in the afternoon preserves the energy of both children and adults. This is exactly the biggest advantage of staying in a central hotel: going back for a nap does not require a long journey. Keeping meal times as close as possible to your routine at home also helps children feel more settled in a new city.
Conclusion
Taksim offers families easy transport, a wide choice of restaurants and a central location. Choosing the right room layout, clarifying a few questions before booking and planning the day around children's rhythm will make your Istanbul trip enjoyable for everyone. For any questions about your family stay, you can contact us.
