10-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ayvalık to Bursa, Istanbul, Yalova, Manisa, and Izmir

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul, 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Gülhane Park. This astonishing park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Hagia Sophia, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Basilica Cistern, one of the most impressive places to see in Bursa. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Spice Bazaar. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this market offers. Finally, take the path to the wondrous Grand Bazaar, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Arkestra, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering fusion menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Malt Bar Gayrettepe after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Izmir and Konak. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Izmir, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Start your day with a visit to Agora Of Smyrna. This underrated archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Clock Tower Of İzmir, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Manisa 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 Konak Mosque, a beloved mosque in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Konak Square.

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

As you explore more of Izmir, 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Catch, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Stone Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Sky Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Izmir, Karabağlar, and Konak. You still have 2 nights left in Izmir.

Today’s itinerary in Izmir covers several incredible sights, including a concert hall, a park, a historical landmark, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This curiosity-inducing concert hall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Güzelyali Park, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to İzmir Büyükşehir Belediyesi Susuzdede Parkı. This often recommended park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to İzmir Historical Elevator Building, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum. This standout museum offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Puerta Alsancak is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cappadocia Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.

Keep the evening going at Chaos Cafe Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Tattoo Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Dinosaur Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Izmir for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Izmir, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Hisar Mosque, a curiosity-inducing mosque in the town. Then, head to Kestane Pazarı Camii and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic mosque.

There are many interesting places to see in Izmir and when you are ready for more, go to Kemeraltı. This is one of the town’s most interesting spots. After exploring the market, visit the curiosity-inducing Salepçioğlu 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mado, an iconic dining spot in Izmir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, a popular restaurant in Izmir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak, a hidden gem nestled in Izmir. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Eko Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Deep Rock Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Outro Momento Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Izmir and Foça. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ayvalık. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Izmir allows for both. Start by heading to İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This worthwhile park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover İzmir Wildlife Park, a gorgeous zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Old Foca Coast, a popular beach.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ayvalık. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kraft Ayvalık is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Shelby Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Orman Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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