10-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ayvalık to Bursa, Istanbul, Yalova, Manisa, and Izmir and surrounding area

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bursa is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Gülhane Park, an astonishing park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Hagia Sophia, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Basilica Cistern. This archeological site is one of the city’s most impressive spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bursa at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Spice Bazaar. After exploring the market, head to the globally renowned Grand Bazaar.

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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Izmir and Konak. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Start your adventure at Agora Of Smyrna. This up-and-coming archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Clock Tower Of İzmir located in Manisa for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Konak Mosque. Its respected features will captivate you. After the mosque, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Konak Square.

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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Izmir by reserving a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Adil Müftüoğlu, recognized for its delicious turkish dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Turkey.

Greet day 7 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 2 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 Izmir, Karabağlar, and Konak.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Izmir, including a concert hall, a park, a historical landmark, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This up-and-coming concert hall is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Güzelyali Park, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Izmir on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to İzmir Büyükşehir Belediyesi Susuzdede Parkı, an increasingly popular park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for İzmir Historical Elevator Building and Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Puerta Alsancak? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cappadocia Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.

Keep the evening going at Chaos Cafe Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Tattoo Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Dinosaur Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day 8 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Konak. You have 1 night left in Izmir. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at the locally appreciated Hisar Mosque, a photogenic mosque in Izmir. Next, go to Kestane Pazarı Camii.

After visiting Hisar Mosque and Kestane Pazarı Camii, have a stroll along Izmir's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kemeraltı. This instagrammable market offers a unique experience. Salepçioğlu Mosque is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mado, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Izmir.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Eko Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Deep Rock Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Outro Momento Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Izmir and Foça, 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 Ayvalık. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Izmir, including a park, a zoo, and a beach. Start your day at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This mesmerizing park is an often recommended place to see in Izmir. Then, wander over to İzmir Wildlife Park. If gorgeous sites excite you, this zoo will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Old Foca Coast. This respected beach is a favorite among visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ayvalık, 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 Ayvalık. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Orchis boutique hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sofia Ayvalık. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ayvalık tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kraft Ayvalık is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Shelby Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Orman Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!