9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Samsun to Ankara and Goreme

On day 2 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Samsun, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Samsun for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Samsun, Atakum, İlkadım, and Canik to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Samsun today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Amisos Hill. This history-steeped archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Of Art Center and learn what makes this photogenic art gallery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Tütün Pier. After exploring the pier, head to Atatürk Parkı. This intriguing park is a highlight in Samsun. As your day continues, stop by Samsun Kent Müzesi, known for its visually striking features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the locally renowned Bandırma Ferry. Enjoy exploring this incredible historic ship at your own pace.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Sisman Borekci, a top-rated dining destination in Samsun. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Batıpark Karadeniz Balık Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Altındağ. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Samsun is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, and a mosque. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile 50th Year Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a history-steeped museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Haci Bayram Mosque, one of the town’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Independence Park. When you're finished at the park, Tacettin Sultan Mosque awaits your visit. This mosque is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ankara. 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 Ankara's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Filikos Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Muddy Waters, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Nil Rock Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. Always Rock Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day 4 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Çankaya. You have 1 night left in Ankara. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your adventure at Kuğulu Park. This is a locally renowned park you should not miss. Another must-see is Anıtkabir, a world-famous monument in Ankara.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cermodern Stage. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Ankara Painting And Sculpture Museum, another of the town’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a respected place of interest in the town. If time allows, add Ankara Castle to your itinerary. This locally renowned castle offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Ankara.

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 Ankara, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at MARTI RESTAURANT, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Golden Pavilion Museum, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Afganistan Sofrası, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at On An On Rock Cafe, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out London Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Uçhisar, Urgup, Nevşehir, and Goreme. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Goreme, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Ankara, including a castle, a rock formation, a national park, a church and much more! Start your day at Uchisar Castle. This symbolic castle is a captivating place to see in Ankara. Then, wander over to Twin Fairy Chimneys. If serene sites excite you, this rock formation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Goreme Historical National Park. This mesmerizing national park is a favorite among visitors.

Ankara offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Dark Church is a beloved spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Goreme. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Orient, a highly-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kapadokya Kebapzade, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Göreme Kaya Otel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Red Red Wine House, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Goreme, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Goreme, including a cave system, a church, and a park. Start your day at Derinkuyu Underground City. This instagrammable cave system is a captivating place to see in Goreme. Then, wander over to Üzümlü Kilise. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Hakkı Atamulu Kültür Parkı.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Goreme. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at THE HANGOUT, an iconic dining spot in Goreme. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Goreme. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Gurme kebab restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Goreme. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at M&m, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Goreme, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the interesting Kayseri Castle, an awe-inspiring castle in Goreme. Next, go to Archeological Museum.

After visiting Kayseri Castle and Archeological Museum, have a stroll along Goreme's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cumhuriyet Meydanı. This history-steeped public square offers a unique experience. Kayseri Clock Tower is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Kurşunlu Parkı, one of the most picturesque places to visit in Goreme. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Sahabiye Madrasa.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Sedef, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Topdeck Cave? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Omurca Art Cave as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Goreme.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.