A vacation to Istanbul is an opportunity to visit a city that has retained so much of its history while simultaneously thriving as a modern metropolis. Children can’t help but be fascinated by its colors, sounds and sights. Start with a kid-friendly guided tour of the Blue Mosque to admire the tiles, the massiveness of the structure and the rhythmic call to prayer. Mix in with the locals as you wander around one of the spice markets, the best place to let children pick out souvenirs to bring home or fresh fruit to snack on. Cap off memorable days of sightseeing with wonderful sweets and coffees as you discuss your observations of this unique place. Our favorite hotel in Istanbul picks up wonderful breezes off the Bosphorus Strait, and its stunning outdoor pool is a kid-friendly place to relax and unwind.