10-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara to Kocaeli, Istanbul, Bolu, Aksaray, Goreme, Sivas, and Amasya and surrounding area

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Çankaya and Ankara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kocaeli, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Ankara. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Seğmenler Parkı is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most notable places to visit in Ankara. Next, head to Anıtkabir, a timeless monument, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Metu Forest. This mesmerizing park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kocaeli. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated dining destination in Kocaeli.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu, 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Kocaeli, including a mosque, a park, a palace, a museum, an observation deck and much more! Start your day at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This stunning mosque is a notable place to see in Kocaeli. Then, wander over to Yıldız Park. If standout sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dolmabahçe Palace. This visually striking palace is a favorite among visitors.

Kocaeli offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Miniatürk is a locally renowned spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Galata Tower. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this globally renowned observation deck.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Sankai by Nagaya, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Istanbul is Arkestra, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious fusion menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Malt Bar Gayrettepe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Rounder's Irish Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Istanbul. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bolu. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Istanbul is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a market and a mosque. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Grand Bazaar and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, an awe-inspiring mosque that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Hagia Sophia, one of the city’s most iconic spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the timeless Spice Bazaar.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bolu, 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 Bolu's best restaurants.

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

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 1 destination, Altındağ. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aksaray, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Bolu’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Haci Bayram Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a must-visit museum in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Ankara Castle, a notable castle.

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

As you explore more of Aksaray, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bal Bahçe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bolu Et Mangal Aksaray offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mustafa Chef Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aksaray.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

On day 6 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 Kaymaklı, Çardak, Uçhisar, and Nevşehir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Goreme, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Aksaray, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Kaymaklı Underground City, a popular cave system in the village. Then, head to Çardak Saray Yeraltı Evi Underground Cıty and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic cave system.

There are many interesting places to see in Aksaray, and when you are ready for more, go to Pigeon Valley Hotel. This is one of the village’s most locally renowned mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the hiking area, visit the well-known Uchisar Castle. Not far away, you'll also find Love Valley. This rock formation is a romantic highlight in Aksaray.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Orient, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kapadokya Kebapzade offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Göreme Kaya Otel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Goreme.

Keep the evening going at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Red Red Wine House, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is M&m, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nevşehir, Çavuşin, and Kayseri. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sivas, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Goreme allows for both. Start by heading to Goreme Historical National Park. This notable national park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri, a majestic rock formation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Kayseri Castle, a locally renowned castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Erciyes Ski Resort.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sivas, 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 Sivas's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Guleryuz Sivas Koftecisi, a top-rated dining spot in Sivas. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mücahit Etli Pide Ve Lahmacun Salonu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Aşçıbaşı. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sivas.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Atölye Nargile. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Tokat, Ballıca, and Amasya, 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 Amasya. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures await you in Sivas on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing market, Tokat Taşhan. Afterward, continue to Ballıca Natural Park, a cave every traveler should visit.

As you explore Sivas’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Ferhat And Şirin Lovers Museum. This up-and-coming museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Amasya Archeology Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Amasya. 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.

Dine in style at Bayramefendi Osmanlı Kahvecisi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kahveland Amasya boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Başkent Aspava Restorant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amasya.

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.