Esenboga is a straightforward airport — modern, single terminal, not too big. The 28 km to the city is manageable with kids if you plan your transport right.
Child seat reality in Turkey
Turkey requires child seats for children under 150 cm or under 36 kg. In practice:
- Taxis: Do not carry child seats. There's a legal exemption for taxis, but safety-wise, it's not great.
- Havaş bus: No child seats needed — kids sit in coach-style seats with seatbelts.
- Pre-booked transfer: You can request child seats when booking. This is the safest option for small children. Specify: infant (0-13 kg), child (9-18 kg), or booster (15-36 kg).
- Bring your own: If you're traveling with a portable car seat, any taxi works.
Best transport by family situation
| Situation | Best option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 2 adults + child (3+) | Transfer with child seat | Safety + door-to-door |
| 2 adults + baby | Transfer with infant seat | Safest option |
| 2 adults + older kids (7+) | Havaş bus or taxi | Kids are big enough for seatbelts |
| Large family (5+) | Van transfer | Space for people + luggage |
| Budget family | Havaş bus | 130 TL per person, kids under 6 free |
The Havaş bus with kids
The Havaş is actually decent for families:
- Comfortable coach seats with seatbelts
- Luggage storage underneath the bus
- Kids under 6 ride free (on a parent's lap)
- Air-conditioned
The downside: it takes 40-50 minutes and drops you at Kızılay or AŞTİ, not your hotel. From Kızılay with kids, bags, and possibly a stroller, you'll need a taxi to your hotel (add 50-150 TL).
Practical tips for families
- ATM first: Get Turkish Lira from the ATM in arrivals. You'll need cash for taxis and small purchases.
- The terminal is compact — no long walks. Stroller-friendly throughout.
- Weather factor: Ankara can be extremely hot in summer (35°C+) and bitter cold in winter (-10°C). The walk from terminal to taxi/bus is short but dress kids appropriately.
- Ankara is at altitude (850m) — some kids get mild headaches or feel tired. Have water ready.
- If continuing to Cappadocia with kids, consider staying overnight in Ankara rather than doing the 3-4 hour drive after a flight. Kids (and adults) will thank you.
Food and facilities at ESB
- Baby changing rooms are available in the terminal restrooms
- Formula and baby food can be found at the terminal pharmacy/shop — limited selection, bring your own to be safe
- Restaurants and cafes in the arrivals area for a quick meal if needed
- Prayer rooms available for families who need them