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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Ayvalık, and Balıkesir, 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 Bursa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aşıklar Tepesi. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,012 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bursa, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at My Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cemil is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Beyoğlu, and Istanbul. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bursa, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Beyoğlu may take around 2 hours 5 min. Upon your arrival in Beyoğlu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Galata Tower, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

After soaking in Beyoğlu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Istanbul. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Istanbul, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Gülhane Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,194 reviews.

Spice Bazaar is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 168,628 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 53,090 reviews.

Grand Bazaar is another outstanding experience in Istanbul. Around 150,014 travelers have rated this bazaar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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 you explore more of Istanbul, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Calipso Fish delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Sankai by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Arkestra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 4 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 Yalova, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 visitors.

Basilica Cistern is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 travelers.

Istanbul is also the home of Hagia Sophia. Around 129,265 people have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Topkapı Palace, which hosts up to 1,932,726 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 97,459 reviews, a visit to this palace is a great idea.

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 Yalova. Yalova 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 Yalova. 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 a delicious meal at Dörtyol Kokoreç, a highly-rated dining destination in Yalova. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sandal Balık, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Yalova Sütlüsü. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Yalova this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Guitar Heroes stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Divan Teras Cafe & Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Yucca Live Performance is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Izmir, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,395 reviews.

Konak’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Izmir behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Konak welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Konak Square. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,737 visitors.

When you’re finished at Konak Square, head to Clock Tower Of İzmir. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,286 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Kemeraltı. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,982 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Konak and set your GPS to Karabağlar. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Karabağlar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,807 reviews.

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.

Savor the flavors at Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider SELİM DE ÇEŞME KUMRU TOST SANDVİÇ IZGARA KÖFTE KONAK ÇEŞME KUMRU. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Izmir tonight.

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

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