6-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Izmir traveling north to Ayvalık
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Explore the best of Turkey on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Karabağlar, Izmir, Konak, Foça, Ayvalık, and Balıkesir. This road trip itinerary in Turkey seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Izmir and 2 nights in Ayvalık. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Izmir, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Kemeraltı and İzmir Historical Elevator Building are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Old Foca Coast, learn more about the unique Clock Tower Of İzmir, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of İzmir Wildlife Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Karabağlar, Izmir, Konak, Foça, Ayvalık, and Balıkesir, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.
Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!
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Day 1
- Izmir - Arrival day
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- İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
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Say hello to Izmir! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Izmir for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Izmir is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out İzmir Historical Elevator Building, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Izmir. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Izmir, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Catch, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stone Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Sky Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Izmir
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Drive 16 km, 50 min
- Konak Square
- Clock Tower of İzmir
- Kemeraltı
- Hisar Mosque
- Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Izmir, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Begin your adventure at Konak Square. This is an often recommended square you should not miss. Another must-see is Clock Tower Of İzmir, a well-known monument in Izmir.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kemeraltı. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Hisar Mosque, another of the town’s often recommended attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi, a romantic place of interest in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Izmir and your accommodation.
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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Tavacı Recep Usta in Izmir by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Tavacı Recep Usta delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious turkish and traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Adil Müftüoğlu, acclaimed for its delectable turkish specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Chaos Cafe Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Tattoo Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Izmir and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 3
- Izmir
- Ayvalık
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Drive 225 km, 3 hours 31 min
- İnciraltı Kent Ormanı
- İzmir Wildlife Park
- Old Foca Coast
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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 Izmir and Foça. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ayvalık, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Izmir is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, a locally appreciated park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find İzmir Wildlife Park, enchanting visitors with its picturesque appeal. Continue your exploration at Old Foca Coast. This beach is one of the city’s most popular spots.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ayvalık. Ayvalık 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 Ayvalık. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe's, a popular restaurant in Ayvalık. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ayvalık at Kök Tadım Mutfağı, 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 Ayvalık Meyhanesi. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ayvalık tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, White Knight Cafe Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bardak is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Çeşni Cunda is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Ayvalık and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 4
- Ayvalık
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Drive 290 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park
- Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir
- Balıkesir Clock Tower
- Zagnos Pasha Mosque
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Balıkesir. You’ll stay in Ayvalık for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Ayvalık, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park, a worthwhile park in the city. Then, head to Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting park.
There are many interesting places to see in Ayvalık, and when you are ready for more, go to Balıkesir Clock Tower. This is one of the city’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the intriguing Zagnos Pasha 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Ayvalık's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, a highly-rated dining destination in Ayvalık. If you're eager to try something different, consider Orchis boutique hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sofia Ayvalık. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ayvalık this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kraft Ayvalık offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Shelby Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Orman Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!
Day 5
- Ayvalık
- Izmir
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Clock Mosque
- Cunda Merkez
- Aşıklar Tepesi
- Oren Beach
- Sarımsaklı Plajı
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Ayvalık. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Izmir, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Ayvalık allows for both. Start by heading to Clock Mosque. This intriguing mosque provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Cunda Merkez, a history-steeped public square, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Aşıklar Tepesi, an up-and-coming observation deck. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Oren Beach. Round off your day at Sarımsaklı Plajı, another gem in Ayvalık with idyllic features to discover.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Izmir, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Izmir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Mado, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Izmir tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eko Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Deep Rock Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Outro Momento Pub 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.
Day 6
- Izmir - Departure day
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- Güzelyali Park
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Day 6 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Izmir before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Güzelyali Park. This locally appreciated park is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Turkey and go on a shopping spree in Izmir’s shopping center, the lively Alsancak Kordon. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Turkey. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. Take one last moment to soak in Turkey, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Izmir.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gülgün Pide, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Izmir. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!
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