7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Pamukkale, and Kuşadası

Greet day 2 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Istanbul for your remaining 1 night 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 Beyoğlu and Istanbul.

Beyoğlu is a fantastic place you can explore today in Beyoğlu. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Beyoğlu-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out İstiklal Avenue, a street offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Istanbul on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Galata Tower is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking observation deck before continuing your journey. Grand Bazaar is your next stop. This wondrous market is one of the best-rated sights in Istanbul.

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 Basilica Cistern. This history-steeped archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Hagia Sophia.

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

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

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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Reggae Br Shot & Food, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Just Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Istanbul.

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

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, including a mosque, a monument, a market, a museum, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Emir Sultan Mosque. This popular mosque is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Green Tomb, which may be one of the most grand places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Istanbul 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 Koza Han, a locally renowned market in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Bursa Grand Mosque and Bursa City Museum. End your day with a visit to Heykel, an underrated public square that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tabipler Lokali offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Abidin Usta is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at My Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cemil. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day 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.

Immerse yourself in Bursa’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This historic archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Pamukkale Theatre, a must-visit archeological site in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, an increasingly popular museum. For a change of scene, check out Travertines Of Pamukkale, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

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.

Dine in style at Traverten Pide, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Seven Spices İndian restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pamukkale.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Marina Clup, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 5 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 Selçuk. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kuşadası, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Pamukkale on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. House Of Virgin Mary is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic church before continuing your journey. Ayasuluk Citadel is your next stop. This intriguing castle is one of the best-rated sights in Pamukkale.

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 Basilica Of Saint John. This historic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit İsa Bey Mosque and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. If time allows, end your day with The Temple Of Artemis, a grand archeological site that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Tuki Çarşaflı & Hamburger, a top-rated dining spot in Kuşadası. If you're in the mood for something new, try Planet Yucca Live "entertainment & dining", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tranche. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kuşadası.

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

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.