9-Day Turkey Road Trip from Izmir to Ayvalık, Bursa, and Manisa

Say hello to Izmir! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the region. You will stay in Izmir for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Izmir is a beautiful region with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Izmir. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Izmir. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Elevate your stay in Izmir by dining at this luxury restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Tavacı Recep Usta consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional turkish and traditional cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Izmir is Adil Müftüoğlu. This luxury establishment’s inviting atmosphere and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its turkish menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to Adil Müftüoğlu’s culinary excellence.

Indulge in the flavors of Ristorante Pizzeria Venedik, a treasured establishment in Izmir. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,262 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit La Cigale Alsancak, one of the best bars in the region. La Cigale Alsancak is an excellent place to have a refreshing evening drink after exploring Izmir. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,445 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Eko Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,387 customers.

La Puerta Alsancak also belongs to the list of the best bars in Izmir, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,986 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Konak. You’ll stay in Konak for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Izmir's best restaurants.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Yengec Restaurant, an acclaimed dining establishment in Izmir. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,570 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Bizim Lokanta while experiencing the best of Izmir. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,363 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of İzmir Sakız Alsancak Restaurant, an elegant culinary destination in Izmir. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 772 previous guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is Yüzde Yüz Food & Drink & Grill. This place has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 1,410 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Tattoo Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 565 customers.

Chaos Cafe Bar is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the region. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 487 customers.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Foça, Izmir, Izmir, and Ayvalık. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ayvalık. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Drop by the renowned İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,502 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,432 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Set your GPS to Balıkesir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 41 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Balıkesir beckons with new experiences!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Ayvalık. Ayvalık offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ayvalık. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Tik Mustafa's Place, a popular restaurant in Ayvalık. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,069 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Ares Cafe during your stay in Ayvalık. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,825 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Ayvalık Deniz Yıldızı Restoran, a renowned dining destination in Ayvalık. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,303 satisfied guests.

We recommend Bi Meyhane Ayvalık Et&Kebap-Meze for many reasons. But most importantly, this bar serves a variety of food and beverages and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 219 reviews.

You can also visit a popular bar like Tamam Meyhane to have refreshing drinks and interact with locals and other travelers. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 969 bar-goers.

When you would rather go somewhere else, try Ayvalık Meyhanesi. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 297 customers, this bar is one of Ayvalık’s best places to relax after a long day.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Ayvalık, Ayvalık, Balıkesir, and Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Make Aşıklar Tepesi one of your first sightseeing stops in Ayvalık. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,905 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Balıkesir, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ayvalık may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Ayvalık, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set your GPS to Bursa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bursa beckons with new experiences!

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bursa, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the region.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bursa.

Don't forget to book a table at Kebapçı Hüseyin Usta, a well-known eatery in Bursa. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,308 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte while exploring Bursa. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,249 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bursa Kebapcisi, a popular restaurant in Bursa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,329 discerning diners.

If you’re up for getting a drink after dinner, Tabipler Lokali is a great place to go. Around 653 customers have rated this popular bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Kitap Evi Otel has an atmosphere and drink selection that guests especially enjoy. Kitap Evi Otel has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,257 reviews and is considered one of the best you can experience in the region.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi. If this is where the night will take you, you’re in for a fun time in Bursa. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 834 customers.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bursa, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

After soaking in Bursa’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beyoğlu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 5 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Üsküdar. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Dolmabahçe Palace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,645 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Yıldız Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,412 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque) is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This mosque has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 33,548 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bursa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 57 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bursa beckons with new experiences!

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bursa.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bursa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari while you’re in Bursa. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 501 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Bursa is Pidecioglu. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 500 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

While in Bursa, enjoy Abidin Usta’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 349 satisfied guests.

Labelle Bar is one of the best bars in Bursa and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 303 customers.

You may also want to check out Cemil, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. Cemil is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 836 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Tepe Cafe & Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 894 customers.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bursa has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bursa by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Bursa, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Bursa below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bursa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Reserve your spot at Titiz Izgara, a popular local restaurant in Bursa. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 224 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience ON6 Et Mangal - Kahvaltı during your stay in Bursa. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 553 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari, a popular local gem in Bursa. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 411 satisfied guests.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a day, pop into Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. This bar is considered one of the best in Bursa and is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 4,591 customers.

You may also want to check out Grand Yazıcı Uludağ. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Grand Yazıcı Uludağ is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 626 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Varuna Memphis Pub BURSA. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 388 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Bursa, Osmangazi, and Manisa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Manisa. Manisa will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Heykel. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,162 visitors.

Bursa City Museum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,015 visitors.

İnkaya Historical Plane Tree is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 24,675 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Bursa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Manisa. Your travel time is around 2 hours 58 min.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Manisa, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Manisa's best restaurants.

Reserve a table at Taş Fabrika, a renowned restaurant in Manisa. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 815 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Gülcemal Manisa Kebapçısı while in Manisa. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 1,869 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Manisa at Manisa Kebabi, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 255 customers.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

On day 8 of your road trip in Turkey, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Aydın, Efeler, and Izmir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Efeler. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Aydın, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Izmir may take around 1 hour 26 min. Upon your arrival in Izmir, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Izmir. Izmir offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Izmir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at KORDONBOYU BALIK. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Izmir boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from around 749 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Izmir is Kofteci Salih. It has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 631 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe, in Izmir. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,160 satisfied customers.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak. This place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 363 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at rePUBlic-izmir. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 219 customers.

Bonema Cafe & Bar is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the region. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 200 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in Izmir and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

Day 9 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Izmir before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Turkey, take a moment for some retail therapy in Izmir’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the region’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Turkey, a variety of items are waiting for you.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Izmir.

You’ll then say farewell to Izmir. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!