Eskişehir is a vibrant university city in western Anatolia, known as Turkey's "student capital" and the birthplace of meerschaum carving. The Porsuk River winds through the city centre past Venetian-style canals, gondola rides, and colourful bridges. The historic Odunpazarı district preserves beautifully restored Ottoman timber houses and is on Turkey's tentative UNESCO World Heritage list. Eskişehir hosts two major universities — Anadolu University and Eskişehir Technical University — whose combined enrolment of over 100,000 students gives the city a youthful, progressive energy unusual for inner Anatolia.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Sazova Science, Art and Culture Park
Huge park with fairy-tale castle, Japanese garden, planetarium, science museum, and petting area. Plan a full day.
Porsuk River Canal Boat (Gondola/Pedal Boat)
Gondola rides and pedal boats on the Porsuk canal — children love the illuminated evening rides
Eskişehir Zoo (Sazova Park)
Zoo within Sazova Park with 100+ species including lions, camels, and deer
Meerschaum Museum
Fascinating for children — intricate tiny sculptures of animals and people carved from white stone
Bisim Bike Sharing on Porsuk River Path
Flat riverside cycle path ideal for family cycling; child seats available on some Bisim bikes
Odunpazarı Street Art Discovery Walk
Children enjoy spotting the colourful murals hidden in Odunpazarı's side streets — turn it into a scavenger hunt
Science Experiment Centre (Bilim Merkezi)
Interactive hands-on science exhibits; popular with older children and teens
Tepebasi Children's Village (Cocuk Köyü)
Dedicated children's playground complex in Tepebaşı district with extensive outdoor play equipment
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Mövenpick Hotel Eskişehir
Radisson Blu Eskişehir
Porsuk Otel
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Börek shops and çibörek stalls are universally loved by children — filling, cheap, and ready in minutes
Pasta Garden Café on the Porsuk River has an excellent dessert menu that delights children
Most Turkish restaurants welcome families; high chairs are available at larger venues
Children's menus (çocuk menüsü) exist at chain restaurants; independent lokantalar usually plate half portions on request
Sazova Park area has food kiosks selling simit, dondurma (Turkish ice cream), and snacks
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.