One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Denizli to Izmir
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Description
Explore the best of Turkey on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pamukkale, Denizli, Goncalı, Merkezefendi, Altındere, Selçuk, Karabağlar, Konak, Çeşme, Tiyelti, Bergama, Çandarlı, Sart, and Salihli. This road trip itinerary in Turkey seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Denizli and 4 nights in Izmir. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Denizli, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Travertines Of Pamukkale and Kemeraltı are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable İzmir Historical Elevator Building, learn more about the unique Clock Tower Of İzmir, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alaçatı Çarşı.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pamukkale, Denizli, Goncalı, Merkezefendi, Altındere, Selçuk, Karabağlar, Konak, Çeşme, Tiyelti, Bergama, Çandarlı, Sart, and Salihli, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.
Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!
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Day 1
- Denizli - Arrival day
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- Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park
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Welcome to Denizli, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Denizli's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Denizli is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Denizli. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Denizli, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Lavin Otel Denizli, a top-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ruma Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Denizli
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Drive 89 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Hierapolis Archaeology Museum
- Travertines of Pamukkale (thermal pools)
- The ancient city of Laodicea
- Adalet Parkı
- Altındere Vadisi
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Denizli, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Pamukkale, Goncalı, Merkezefendi, and Altındere. You still have 1 night left in Denizli.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This beloved archeological site is a historic place to see in Denizli. Continue your discovery at Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, an UNESCO world heritage-designated museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Denizli, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Travertines Of Pamukkale. This spectacular geothermal field offers an UNESCO world heritage-listed encounter with Denizli. Next, make your way to Laodicea Ancient City to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Adalet Parkı, a curiosity-inducing park that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Altındere Vadisi, an underrated park in the village. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Denizli.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Denizli.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Denizli's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Gökçen Gözleme Evi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Akcesme Kokorec boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!
Day 3
- Denizli
- Izmir
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Drive 273 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Natural Park of the Virgin Mary
- House of Virgin Mary
- The Temple of Artemis
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum
- Basilica Of Saint John
- İsa Bey Mosque
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Izmir and Selçuk, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Izmir. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.
Start your adventure at Natural Park Of The Virgin Mary. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of House Of Virgin Mary, a must-see church in the region.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to The Temple Of Artemis. This beloved archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ephesus Archaeological Museum, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Basilica Of Saint John and İsa Bey Mosque. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Izmir. Izmir offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Emniyet Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Izmir.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Catch, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stone Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Sky Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!
Day 4
- Izmir
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Drive 10 km, 42 min
- İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
- Smyrna Agora Ancient City
- Kemeraltı
- Clock Tower of İzmir
- Konak Square
- Alsancak
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Izmir for your remaining 3 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Karabağlar, Izmir, and Konak.
Alsancak is a fantastic place you can explore today in Karabağlar. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Karabağlar-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Izmir. Your adventure starts at İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Agora Of Smyrna. This intriguing archeological site is known for its enchanting appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Izmir's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Kemeraltı. This respected market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Clock Tower Of İzmir is also worth visiting, along with Konak Square. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Izmir and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, a highly-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Puerta Alsancak, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cappadocia Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Chaos Cafe Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Tattoo Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!
Day 5
- Izmir
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Drive 177 km, 2 hours 17 min
- Alaçatı Çarşı
- Cesme Castle
- Çeşme Marina
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On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Izmir for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Izmir and Çeşme to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Izmir is Çeşme Marina. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Izmir. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await! Alaçatı Çarşı is the perfect place to start. This market is one of the most captivating places to visit in Izmir. Next, head to Çeşme Castle, an interesting castle, known for its awe-inspiring features.
Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Izmir.
As you explore more of Izmir, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Mado, a top-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Eko Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Deep Rock Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Outro Momento Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Izmir
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Asclepieion of Pergamon
- Red Basilica
- Yeni Cami
- Bergama Museum
- Çandarlı Castle
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Izmir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the increasingly popular Asclepieion Of Pergamon, a culturally significant archeological site in Izmir. Next, go to Red Basilica.
After visiting Asclepieion Of Pergamon and Red Basilica, have a stroll along Izmir's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Yeni Cami. This heritage-rich mosque offers a unique experience. Bergama Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Çandarlı Castle, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Izmir.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Izmir and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Izmir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at rePUBlic-izmir, a popular restaurant in Izmir. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Izmir at Gülgün Pide, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Moresi Girit Mutfağı. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Izmir tonight.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!
Day 7
- Izmir
- Denizli
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Lydia Park Nature
- Kursunlu Kaplicalari
- Hamidiye Mosque
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On day 7 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 Sart, Manisa, and Salihli. In the evening, you’ll end up in Denizli, where you will stay for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Izmir allows for both. Start by heading to Lydia Park Nature. This worthwhile sightseeing destination provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Kursunlu Kaplicalari, an idyllic hot spring, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Hamidiye Mosque, an up-and-coming mosque.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Denizli, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Denizli, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at ATA BREAD FACTORY, a highly-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're eager to try something different, consider CAFE Pİ, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 8
- Denizli - Departure day
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- Denizli Gondola
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Day 8 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Denizli before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Denizli Gondola, a mesmerizing tramway before you head out.
As your final day in Turkey unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Denizli's best shopping area, Teras Park AVM. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Turkey.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Denizli.
Savor the flavors at Garson Şükrü Aile Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Meşhur Denizli Kebapçısı beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Denizli. 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!
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