In Turkey, schools will have a mid-term break from November 13 to 17, 2023. Holidays offer a time of freedom and fun for kids and an opportunity for families to spend quality time together. However, finding the ideal itinerary for every family can sometimes be challenging. Here's what you need to know about some great routes and activities in Turkey to have a fantastic time with your children during your mid-term break. You should be prepared for the break period. Soyut Karavan will inspire you to discover Turkey's most beautiful mid-term holiday routes and create unforgettable memories.

Now, let's begin our journey to enchanting places all across Turkey. In this guide, you'll find routes that will pique everyone's interest and ensure an unforgettable holiday experience. Get your holiday bags ready; it's time to embark on an adventure with Soyut Karavan!

Where to Go During Autumn Break? Our Picks for You

1. Salda Lake - The White Pearl of Lakes

If you want to spend your winter break at Salda Lake, the paradise of lakes in Turkey, you will be captivated by the unique beauty where you can breathe in the tranquility of nature. Both your children and you can spend time by the lake. Salda Lake is among the cleanest lakes in Turkey.

Salda Lake is located in the southwest of Turkey, within the borders of Burdur province. It is approximately 76 kilometers away from the center of Burdur. You can reach the lake by private vehicle or public transportation. Known as the 'White Pearl of Lakes,' this lake in the lake region boasts some of the cleanest and clearest waters. Salda Lake has become a popular tourist destination, particularly in recent years, due to its natural beauty and clean water.

Salda Lake is renowned for its unique, snow-white sandy beaches and deep turquoise waters. In the 1960s, the lake was also referred to as 'Lake of the Moon' by NASA due to its resemblance to the lunar surface.

When you come here, the lake's snow-white sandy beaches and turquoise waters will captivate you. You can have a family picnic and enjoy the beauty of nature. Additionally, the nearby Eğirdir Lake and Kovada Lake are also worth visiting.

2. Pamukkale - The White Paradise

The warm waters and white travertine terraces of Pamukkale are so impressive that they will capture the interest of people of all ages. Pamukkale, located in the southwestern part of Turkey, in the province of Denizli, has gained fame as a historical and natural area. It is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The ancient city of Hierapolis is also located here. Hierapolis is an ancient city dating back to the Roman period. There are many historical remains worth seeing here, including a theater, baths, a nymphaeum (fountain), and ancient tombs. It's a fantastic place to explore both historical and natural beauty simultaneously.

Pamukkale's most striking feature is the white travertine terraces formed over the years by the hot thermal waters. These terraces appear white and crystal-like due to the temperature and minerals of the flowing waters from bottom to top. Visitors can walk on these terraces and enjoy the waters. These waters may help alleviate skin conditions and issues like rheumatism.

3. Traveling to Cappadocia - A Fairytale Adventure

Cappadocia is famous for its fairy chimneys, underground cities, and fairytale landscapes. It's a perfect place for balloon tours, horseback rides, and exploring historical sites. You can have a magical adventure here with your children. Additionally, you can visit historical churches and underground cities at the Göreme Open-Air Museum.

The most famous feature of Cappadocia is its fairy chimneys. These natural formations are extraordinary rock formations created by the effect of wind and erosion on volcanic tuff rock. Some fairy chimneys house underground cities, churches, and dwellings.

The Göreme Open-Air Museum is one of the most important historical and cultural sites in the region. This museum includes monasteries and churches located within rock-cut caves. These churches, scattered around Göreme, are adorned with frescoes and date back to the Byzantine period.

In Cappadocia, hot air balloons provide a popular way to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. Rising early in the morning with hot air balloons to the sky offers an unforgettable experience of seeing the fairy chimneys and the beauty of the region from a bird's-eye view.In Cappadocia, hot air balloons provide a popular way to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. Rising early in the morning with hot air balloons to the sky offers an unforgettable experience of seeing the fairy chimneys and the beauty of the region from a bird's-eye view.

Throughout its history, Cappadocia has been home to various civilizations, and as a result, it boasts many underground cities and settlements. Areas like Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı Underground Cities offer visitors the opportunity to explore the subterranean world. They are known for their early Christian churches and monasteries. The rock-cut churches in Göreme are notable for their frescoes and historical atmosphere.

4. Bursa - The City of History and Flavors

Bursa, also known as 'Green Bursa,' is famous for its historical texture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. It has a significant place in history as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. The city is home to numerous historical landmarks from the Ottoman era, including Bursa Castle, the Grand Mosque, and the tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi, which are important for visitors interested in history and culture.

Bursa stands out for its green spaces and natural beauty. Natural parks and lakesides like Ulu Çamlık Park, Botanic Park, and Gölyazı offer excellent options for picnics and nature walks.

You can find many restaurants and eateries to try local delicacies like Iskender kebab, Kemalpaşa dessert, pideli köfte, and marron dessert.

Uludağ, located right next to Bursa, is one of Turkey's significant ski resorts. Popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, Uludağ is also suitable for nature walks and mountain biking in warm and mild weather. The cable car in Bursa connects the city to Uludağ. With the cable car, you can observe the city's panoramic views and the surrounding area from a bird's-eye perspective. It also facilitates transportation for those who come to Uludağ for skiing.

5. Izmir - Ephesus - History and Sea

Ephesus Ancient City is a fantastic option for families who love history. At the same time, you can enjoy the sea by visiting the beautiful coastal towns of Izmir.

Ephesus is famous for being an important port city and cultural center of the Ancient Roman Empire. Today, the remains of Ephesus are still largely preserved, offering visitors a captivating historical and archaeological site. It was founded in the 10th century BC and had great significance in the ancient world. Important structures like the Celsus Library, the Grand Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian, the Temple of Artemis, and the Agora make Ephesus a place worth visiting.

One of the most famous structures in Ephesus is the Celsus Library, built during the Roman period and known for its captivating facade. It was used as a library containing 12,000 books at the time of its construction.

The grand theater of Ephesus, with a seating capacity of approximately 24,000 people, is one of the largest theaters from the Roman period. It is still used for concerts and events. It is also famous for its remarkable water and canal system. The remnants of this system can still be seen and reflect engineering prowess. The House of the Virgin Mary, located near Ephesus, is considered the place where, according to Christian belief, the Virgin Mary spent her final years. Christians visit this place as a religious pilgrimage site.

6. Yedigöller - Bolu - Peace Amidst the Forest

Yedigöller National Park offers a serene route where you can go on nature walks, have picnics, and spend time around the ponds with your children. The most distinctive feature of the National Park is that it consists of seven different lakes. The names of these lakes are Büyükgöl, Küçükgöl, Deringöl, Nazlıgöl, Seringöl, İncegöl, and Sazlıgöl. Each lake has its own unique charm.

7. Abant - Bolu - Alone with Nature

Abant Lake is famous for its natural beauty and hiking trails. If you are looking for a quiet holiday, you can find it in Abant. You can go hiking with your family, watch the swans, and take a boat ride on the lake.

8. Şile - Istanbul - Sea and History Together

Şile is a seaside town near Istanbul. It's located approximately 70 kilometers east of the city center and stretches along the Black Sea coast. Şile is famous for its historical and natural beauty, beautiful beaches, and a village atmosphere. It offers a holiday filled with beaches, historical sites, and delicious seafood. You can visit Şile Castle and savor delicious meals at the renowned seafood restaurants in the area.

It is famous for its traditional woven fabric named after the town. Şile cloth is known for its lightweight and breathable nature, and it is commonly used for summer clothing.

The Şile Lighthouse, located in Şile, was built in 1859 and is one of the oldest lighthouses on the Black Sea. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the view of the town."

9. Ağva - Istanbul

Ağva is ideal for those who want a nature-oriented holiday near Istanbul. You can find peace amidst the green and blue. It is famous for its natural beauty, with green hills covered in forests and surrounded by the Black Sea coastline. The Ağva River runs through the town and offers stunning views. There are hiking trails like Gözleme Plateau and Hacilli Waterfall.

10. Sapanca - Sakarya - Tranquility by the Lake

Sapanca Lake is known for being a destination close to Istanbul. You can have a peaceful holiday in accommodations near the lake. You can take walks by the lake, explore the beauty of the lake by cycling, and enjoy the soothing atmosphere of Sapanca. Sapanca also stands out with its historical mosques, bathhouses, and old houses. The town offers visitors various experiences with its natural beauty and historical texture.

11. Eskişehir - Entertainment and Culture

Eskişehir, along the banks of the Porsuk River, has a warm atmosphere. Eskişehir Science, Art, and Culture Park offers fun activities for children. You can also visit the historical sites of Eskişehir. It is famous for traditional meerschaum craftsmanship. These stones are hand-carved in various colors and patterns and used to make jewelry, ornaments, and souvenirs. The Odunpazarı district includes historical houses, art galleries, and small cafes.

The Porsuk River flows through the city center, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and picnicking along its banks. The old bridges and wooden buildings on the river are also worth seeing.

It is a city filled with historical and cultural riches. You can visit significant places like Kurşunlu Mosque, Kurşunlu Complex, Eskişehir Archaeology Museum, and historical houses from the Ottoman era.

12. Ankara - Capital Adventure

Ankara is a destination where you can visit historical museums with your family, teach your children about the founder of our republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, by visiting Anıtkabir. You can also find opportunities to visit important places like Ankara Castle and Atatürk Forest Farm.

Historical sites like Hisar Castle, Ankara Castle, Roman Bath, and Roman Theater are also worth seeing. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, the Ethnography Museum, and the Museum of Painting and Sculpture are popular places for art and culture enthusiasts.

The Hacı Bayram Mosque, the most important religious structure in Ankara, was built in the 15th century. The mosque and its surroundings are an important center for religious and cultural activities.

Each route offers various activities that cater to the different interests of families. While planning your holiday, you can choose the ones that match your children's and your own interests. Have a great vacation! If you're planning to travel by caravan, you may want to read our article on “Preperation Before a Caravan Trip” in advance.