11-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling east to Ankara, Goreme, Konya, Pamukkale, and Selçuk

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Istanbul and Beyoğlu. You still have 1 night left in Istanbul.

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 picture-perfect palace is a widely recognized place to see in Istanbul. Then, wander over to Grand Bazaar. If visually striking 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 wondrous 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Just Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Ankara and Altındağ, 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 Ankara. You’ll stay here 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 Anıtkabir. This world-famous monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Haci Bayram Mosque, a heritage-rich mosque, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a notable museum.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Filikos Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Muddy Waters, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Nil Rock Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Always Rock Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Goreme, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Goreme. Your adventure starts at Goreme Historical National Park, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Twin Fairy Chimneys. This locally appreciated rock formation is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Goreme's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Pigeon Valley Hotel. This instagrammable hiking area offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Kaymaklı Underground City is also worth visiting.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at THE HANGOUT, a popular restaurant in Goreme. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Goreme at Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, 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 Gurme kebab restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Goreme tonight.

Say good night to Goreme and look forward to another great 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 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Karatay, Konya, and Selçuklu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Konya, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Goreme, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Mevlâna Museum, a famous museum in the town. Then, head to Selimiye Mosque and soak in the ambiance of this inviting mosque.

There are many interesting places to see in Goreme, and when you are ready for more, go to Shams Of Tabriz Mosque And Tomb. This is one of the town’s most worthwhile inviting spots of interest. After exploring the mosque, visit the well-known Culture Park. Not far away, you'll also find Stone Works Museum Of Fine Minaret. This museum is a symbolic highlight in Goreme.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Konya. 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 Konya. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kafem Gedavet, a highly-rated dining destination in Konya. If you're eager to try something different, consider Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Asmalı Konak Bilardo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Konya this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Grand Maksim Gazinosu after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cafe Extrablatt, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mr. Frog Pub Bistro also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Pamukkale. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pamukkale. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Konya today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Pamukkale Theatre and learn what makes this breathtaking archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Natural Park.

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

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 delicious dinner at Traverten Pide, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Seven Spices İndian restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pamukkale.

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

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Pamukkale, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Pamukkale today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Aphrodisias Ancient City Museum. This breathtaking archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Laodicea Ancient City and learn what makes this picture-perfect archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Travertines Of Pamukkale. This spectacular geothermal field is a highlight in Pamukkale.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at GURME RESTAURANT CAFE, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kayas Wine House? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at ONUR RESTAURANT as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pamukkale.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 9 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 Selçuk and Izmir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Selçuk, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Virgin Mary Statue. This beloved monument is a grand place to see in Pamukkale.

As you stroll around Pamukkale, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to House Of Virgin Mary. This up-and-coming church offers a breathtaking encounter with Pamukkale. Next, make your way to The Temple Of Artemis to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a locally renowned museum that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Basilica Of Saint John, a curiosity-inducing church in the town. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Pamukkale.

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

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

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Bursa, 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 Istanbul. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Selçuk on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Koza Han is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic market before continuing your journey. Bursa Grand Mosque is your next stop. This popular mosque is one of the best-rated sights in Selçuk.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Heykel. This visually striking public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Emir Sultan Mosque.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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