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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Beyoğlu and 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 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Yalova, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beyoğlu. Your travel time is around 1 hour 25 min.

Make your way to Galata Tower, an iconic observation deck that draws attention for its grand features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Istanbul. This car ride takes around 18 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Hagia Sophia, a timeless mosque that everyone visiting Istanbul should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Basilica Cistern. This history-steeped archeological site is one of the most astonishing attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a breathtaking mosque, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Istanbul by reserving a table at Calipso Fish. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Arkestra, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Malt Bar Gayrettepe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Greet day 4 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 Fatih and Istanbul.

Istanbul is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a market, a park, and a palace. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the timeless Spice Bazaar. Just a short distance away is Grand Bazaar, a photogenic market that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Gülhane Park, one of the town’s most extraordinary spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Topkapı Palace.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Fatih and set your GPS to Istanbul. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 11 min. Upon reaching Istanbul, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Süleymaniye Mosque, an astonishing mosque known for its stunning features.

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

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 top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Just Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

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 Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Eyüpsultan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Üsküdar behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Eyüpsultan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, an interesting mosque that everyone visiting Üsküdar should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Yıldız Park. This mesmerizing park is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Dolmabahçe Palace, a symbolic palace, popular among locals as well as travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Üsküdar, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Eyüpsultan may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Eyüpsultan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, an astonishing mosque that draws attention for its stunning features.

Set your GPS to Beyoğlu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beyoğlu beckons with new experiences!

Galata Bridge is a captivating bascule bridge we recommend making time to visit today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bursa. Bursa offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Savor the flavors at Kitap Evi Otel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tabipler Lokali beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Abidin Usta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

Keep the evening going at My Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cemil, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to Bursa 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 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Izmir and Konak. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bursa and set your GPS to Izmir. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 23 min. Upon reaching Izmir, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Arkas Art Center, an increasingly popular art gallery in Izmir. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Kemeraltı is a well-known market we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Konak Mosque, a breathtaking mosque that’s well-regarded in the area. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Clock Tower Of İzmir, a historic and truly unique monument.

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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Catch, known for its lively atmosphere. Stone Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Sky Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Didim. This car ride takes around 2 hours 3 min.

Make your way to Altınkum, an interesting beach that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Didyma, a stunning archeological site that stands out in the town. Next, visit Temple Of Apollo, a worthwhile archeological site that offers a unique experience.

Gümüş Yeniköy’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Didim behind. This drive usually takes around 57 min. Gümüş Yeniköy welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Magnesia Stadium.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mado, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Izmir.

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

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.