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

On day 3 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 Istanbul. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Bursa’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Gülhane Park. This awe-inspiring park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Hagia Sophia, a must-visit mosque in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Basilica Cistern, a top-rated archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Spice Bazaar, known for its respected features. We also recommend visiting Grand Bazaar. This market is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Istanbul, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Istanbul by securing a table at Calipso Fish. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Sankai by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Arkestra, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for fusion cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Malt Bar Gayrettepe. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Izmir and Konak, 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 Izmir. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Manisa allows for both. Start by heading to Agora Of Smyrna. This frequently visited archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Clock Tower Of İzmir, a culturally significant monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Konak Mosque, an up-and-coming mosque. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Konak Square.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Tavacı Recep Usta, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Adil Müftüoğlu, known for its delicious turkish cuisine.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Catch, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stone Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Sky Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 2 nights left in Izmir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Izmir, including a concert hall, a park, a historical landmark, a museum and much more! Start your day at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This picture-perfect concert hall is a frequently visited place to see in Izmir. Then, wander over to Güzelyali Park. If visually striking sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find İzmir Büyükşehir Belediyesi Susuzdede Parkı. This majestic park is a favorite among visitors.

Izmir offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, İzmir Historical Elevator Building is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the standout Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile museum.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Chaos Cafe Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Tattoo Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Dinosaur Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Konak. You’ll stay in Izmir for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Izmir on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Hisar Mosque is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant mosque before continuing your journey. Kestane Pazarı Camii is your next stop. This increasingly popular mosque is one of the best-rated sights in Izmir.

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 Kemeraltı. This photogenic market is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit 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.

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 Mado, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Eko Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Deep Rock Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Outro Momento Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Izmir and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Izmir, including a park, a zoo, and a beach. Start your day at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This eye-catching park is an increasingly popular place to see in Izmir. Then, wander over to İzmir Wildlife Park. If picturesque sites excite you, this zoo will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Old Foca Coast. This romantic beach is a favorite among visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Orchis boutique hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sofia Ayvalık. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ayvalık.

Continue your lively evening at Kraft Ayvalık, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Shelby Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Orman Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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