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

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.

Start by visiting Gülhane Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Hagia Sophia, another must-visit landmark and iconic mosque renowned for its majestic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bursa by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Basilica Cistern. This visually striking archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bursa experience. We also recommend visiting Spice Bazaar, a timeless market. Nearby, you'll also find Grand Bazaar, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Malt Bar Gayrettepe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Manisa. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Agora Of Smyrna is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Manisa. Next, head to Clock Tower Of İzmir, an interesting monument, known for its respected 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 Konak Mosque. This breathtaking mosque is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Konak Square. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Izmir, Adil Müftüoğlu shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious turkish cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Catch, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Stone Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Izmir. Sky Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Izmir for your remaining 2 nights 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 Izmir, Karabağlar, and Konak.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Izmir. Your adventure starts at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Güzelyali Park. This beloved park is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Izmir's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to İzmir Büyükşehir Belediyesi Susuzdede Parkı. This mesmerizing park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. İzmir Historical Elevator Building is also worth visiting, along with Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

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

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Chaos Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Tattoo Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night 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.

Today’s itinerary in Izmir covers several incredible sights, including a mosque and a market. Start your adventure at Hisar Mosque. This underrated mosque is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Kestane Pazarı Camii, a must-see mosque in the town.

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 Kemeraltı. This well-known market offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Salepçioğlu Mosque, where you can take in respected features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Mado, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Izmir.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Eko Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Deep Rock Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Outro Momento Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Izmir and Foça. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ayvalık, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Izmir today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This serene park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to İzmir Wildlife Park and learn what makes this picturesque zoo unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Old Foca Coast.

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.

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

Dine in style at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Orchis boutique hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sofia Ayvalık. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ayvalık.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kraft Ayvalık. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Shelby Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Orman Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!