Best Amusement Parks in Istanbul
Amusement parks are an important part of Istanbul, adding vibrancy and entertainment to Turkey’s largest city.
These parks offer a vital escape for relaxation and fun, both for families and tourists alike.
Beyond being fun destinations, they contribute to the local economy by attracting tourists and increasing the influx of visitors to the city, which boosts commerce and services.
They also provide multiple job opportunities and play a role in developing the city’s infrastructure and entertainment offerings.
In this article, we will explore the best amusement parks in Istanbul, which enhance its status as a global tourist destination and add more vitality to its social and cultural life.
The best amusement parks in Istanbul
Vialand or Isfanbul
Located in the heart of European Istanbul, specifically in the Yesilpinar area near Eyup Sultan, Vialand is the largest amusement park in Istanbul. It was opened in 2013 under the name Vialand, but last year it was renamed Isfanbul.
This expansive park features the latest electric rides with safe standards, such as giant roller coasters, high-thrill rides, Ferris wheels, and children’s rides, all divided into fascinatingly named sections like the World of Legends, World of Games, and World of Adventure, offering attractions for history and animal lovers.
There’s also the luxurious Via Mall. The staff here are known for their friendliness and hospitality, as attested by visitors.
Vialand is suitable for both children and adults and is known for its excellent discount offers, especially the silver, gold, and diamond packages, which include game access, reduced wait times, delicious pizza meals, and memorable photo opportunities, among other temptations you’ll want to capture.
Visitors to Vialand Amusement Park recommend wearing waterproof clothing if they plan to try the water gondola ride. They also suggest purchasing tickets directly from the website to get the best discounts.
Aqua Marina Istanbul and Marina Aquapark
If you’re looking for water entertainment, Aqua Marina in the Buyukcekmece area on the European side was the perfect spot, though it’s currently closed due to the end of its contract. It was one of the largest water parks in Istanbul.
Currently, Marina Aqua Park is the ideal place for water game enthusiasts. Located in the Tuzla area on the Asian side of Istanbul, about an hour from the city center, it features many pools with artificial waves, water slides, and restaurants. Families can spend a full day of fun and refreshment to the rhythm of music.
Bostanci Lunapark
Also known as Istanbul Amusement Park, Bostanci Lunapark is one of the oldest amusement parks at the crossroads of two continents. Located on the Asian side in Kadikoy, you can try the latest thrill rides here, like the ejection seat that shoots you high like a catapult.
This amusement park is close to the Marmaray Metro line, making it easy to access for both individuals and families. It has rides suitable for children, such as the octopus ride, car rides, shooting games, and small roller coasters, all at very reasonable prices.
The Bostanci Lunapark stalls offer a wide range of quick snacks like ice cream, popcorn, corn, and other light foods.
Snowpark Tourim Mall
One of the main attractions of Torium Mall, located in the Avcilar district on the European side, is Snowpark. It’s a year-round destination for snow lovers, offering a skiing experience over 5,000 square meters, featuring ski slopes, ice paths, and snowmobiles that add more fun and challenge to the atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy Snowpark in Istanbul between noon and 8 PM, with activities like sledding and racing in a thrilling environment, climbing the three snow-covered mountains, and making various snow shapes while playing snowball in an indoor environment with a stable, suitable temperature.
Experts recommend choosing a weekday to visit Snowpark in Istanbul, as holidays are typically more crowded. They also suggest buying tickets in advance online to get discounts.
Florya Leroz Eglence Merkezi
Known as Florya Istanbul Amusement Park, it is located in the Bakirkoy district on the European side, offering a spectacular sea view with excellent restaurants.
This amusement park is famous for its roller coasters and gentle yet thrilling rides. It also features a karting track and a bumper car arena, which are favorites among children.
The management provides bicycle and scooter rentals, allowing you to enjoy a great ride on specially designed paths while watching planes take off or land at the nearby Atatürk Airport.
KidZania Istanbul
Located in the Uskudar district on the Asian side, this famous attraction is part of the KidZania chain, known for its professional standards in amusement parks worldwide.
What sets KidZania Istanbul apart is the opportunity it offers children to experience 120 different professions through various activities, such as being a firefighter, doctor, policeman, or carpenter.
They are provided with appropriate uniforms and introduced to the spaces dedicated to the professions they choose, helping them discover their future passions or talents.
The facility also includes restaurants that serve pizza, chocolate, donuts, and ravioli, and families are allowed to bring light snacks such as pastries.
KidZania offers regular discount offers, which are sold on its official website.