Kastamonu is a historic city in Turkey's Western Black Sea region, sitting at roughly 800 metres above sea level in a valley carved by the Gökırmak and Kastamonu streams. Famous for its remarkably well-preserved Ottoman timber architecture, its imposing Byzantine-Ottoman castle, and a culinary tradition built around garlic, chickpea dishes, and cured meats, the city rewards visitors who venture beyond Turkey's coastal and Cappadocian tourist circuits. The surrounding province encompasses Ilgaz Mountain National Park — a winter ski destination — and the dramatic gorges of Küre Mountains National Park, offering some of the finest trekking in northern Anatolia.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Kastamonu Castle Exploration
İnceğiz Cave
Ilgaz Mountain Ski (winter)
Boraboy Lake Picnic and Walk
Leblebi Çarşısı Tasting Walk
Kastamonu City Museum
Handallaz Waterfall Walk
Trout Farm (Çamlık Alabalık)
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Grand Hotel Kastamonu
Family features: Elevator, family rooms (quad), restaurant, central location. Address: Atatürk Bulvarı No:12, Kastamonu. Book via Booking.com (search Grand Hotel Kastamonu).
Hüsnü Bey Konağı
Family features: Heritage guesthouse; garden; castle-district location with atmospheric streets for children. Address: Kale Mah. Bağlar Sk. No:2, Kastamonu
Ilgaz Kar Oteli
Family features: Ski-in/ski-out (winter); quad family rooms; sauna; restaurant. For ski holidays. Address: Ilgaz Dağı Kayak Merkezi, İlgaz
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Lokantalar (daily-dish restaurants) serve simple grilled meats and soups that children typically enjoy
Pide (Turkish flatbread pizza) at Nasrullah Pidecisi is universally popular with kids
Leblebi and simit are safe, portable snacks for on-the-go days
Ask for 'etsiz' (without meat) or 'sade' (plain) dishes if children have preferences
Fresh fruit juices and ayran (yoghurt drink) are healthier alternatives to fizzy drinks
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.