7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul to Izmir

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Don’t miss Beyoğlu in Istanbul today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting İstiklal Avenue, another street that adds to the charm of Istanbul.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Istanbul, including a palace, a market, and an observation deck. Start your day at Topkapı Palace. This historic palace is an extraordinary place to see in Istanbul. Then, wander over to Grand Bazaar. If eye-catching sites excite you, this market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Spice Bazaar. This heritage-rich market is a favorite among visitors.

Istanbul offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Galata Tower is a globally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Istanbul and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Istanbul, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try Divella Bistro Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

Keep the evening going at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Just Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

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 3 vibrant destinations - Karabağlar, Izmir, and Konak. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Izmir. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Istanbul, including a historical landmark, an archeological site, a market, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This interesting historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Agora Of Smyrna located in Istanbul for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Kemeraltı. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the market, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Clock Tower Of İzmir. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this monument.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Izmir. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Emniyet Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Catch stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Stone Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Sky Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Immerse yourself in Izmir’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Pamukkale Theatre, a must-visit archeological site in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Travertines Of Pamukkale, a widely recognized geothermal field.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, a top-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Puerta Alsancak, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cappadocia Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Chaos Cafe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tattoo Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Izmir and Selçuk to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Izmir, including a church, a castle, a mosque, a museum, an archeological site and much more! Start your adventure at House Of Virgin Mary. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Ayasuluk Citadel located in Izmir for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Basilica Of Saint John. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the region with a visit to İsa Bey Mosque. Visitors usually appreciate the grand features of this mosque. Next up is Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a highly recommended museum. For a change of pace, head to The Temple Of Artemis. As one of the most worthwhile attractions in Izmir, this archeological site is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Izmir and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mado, a highly-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're eager to try something different, consider Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Eko Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Deep Rock Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Outro Momento Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bergama and Tiyelti. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Izmir today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Bergama Museum. This eye-catching museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Yeni Cami and learn what makes this history-steeped mosque unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Red Basilica. After exploring the archeological site, head to Bergama Ulu Camii. This often recommended mosque is a highlight in Izmir. As your day continues, stop by Asclepieion Of Pergamon, known for its culturally significant features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Istanbul, 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 Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pierre Loti Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.