One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul to Bursa, Pamukkale, Kuşadası, and Izmir

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Sultanahmet, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Istanbul. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Istanbul, including a palace, a mosque, an archeological site, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Topkapı Palace. This extraordinary palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Hagia Sophia located in Istanbul for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Basilica Cistern. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Sultanahmet Square. Visitors usually appreciate the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of this public square. Next up is Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a highly recommended mosque.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Experience shopping bliss at Istanbul as you explore Grand Bazaar. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Grand Bazaar offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Reggae Br Shot & Food after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Just Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

On day 3 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 Bursa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Istanbul allows for both. Start by heading to Emir Sultan Mosque. This popular mosque provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Green Tomb, a stunning monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Koza Han, an interesting market. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Bursa Grand Mosque. Not far away from the mosque, you will find the visually striking Heykel, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Bursa City Museum, another gem in Istanbul with historic features to discover.

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

As you explore more of Bursa, 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.

Dine in style at Kitap Evi Otel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tabipler Lokali boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Abidin Usta. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bursa.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting My Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cemil also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Pamukkale, 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 Pamukkale. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Bursa on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular archeological site, Hierapolis Ancient Theater. Afterward, continue to Pamukkale Theatre, an archeological site every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bursa’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This worthwhile museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Travertines Of Pamukkale, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Traverten Pide, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Seven Spices İndian restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pamukkale.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Marina Clup, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Izmir and Selçuk. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kuşadası, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Pamukkale is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at House Of Virgin Mary, an often recommended church that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find Ayasuluk Citadel, enchanting visitors with its awe-inspiring appeal. Continue your exploration at Basilica Of Saint John. This church is one of the region’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Pamukkale at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit İsa Bey Mosque. After exploring the mosque, head to the interesting Ephesus Archaeological Museum. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to The Temple Of Artemis, a place of breathtaking interest in Pamukkale.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kuşadası. Kuşadası 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 Kuşadası. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tuki Çarşaflı & Hamburger, a highly-rated dining destination in Kuşadası. If you're eager to try something different, consider Planet Yucca Live "entertainment & dining", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tranche. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kuşadası this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Brewery Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Karabağlar, Konak, and Izmir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Izmir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Kuşadası. Your adventure starts at İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Konak Square. This up-and-coming square is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Kuşadası's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Clock Tower Of İzmir. This culturally significant monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Kemeraltı is also worth visiting, along with Ataturk Museum. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Emniyet Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Izmir tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Catch after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stone Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Sky Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 7 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Izmir. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a mosque, and an archeological site. Begin your adventure at Bergama Museum. This is a curiosity-inducing museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Yeni Cami, an often recommended mosque in Izmir.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Red Basilica. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Bergama Ulu Camii, another of the town’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Asclepieion Of Pergamon, a picture-perfect place of interest in the town.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pierre Loti Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!