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

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

When you arrive in Pamukkale, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

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 Manisa. Manisa 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Litany, a top-rated dining destination in Manisa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Efendi Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dergah Cafe&Bar Ocakbaşı Restoran. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manisa this evening.

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 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Istanbul for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Beyoğlu and Istanbul to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s itinerary in Istanbul covers several incredible sights, including a market, a public square, and a mosque. Start your adventure at Grand Bazaar. This wondrous market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Sultanahmet Square, a must-see public square 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 Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This top-rated mosque offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Hagia Sophia, where you can take in its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Beyoğlu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Istanbul. This drive usually takes around 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Galata Tower, a globally renowned observation deck that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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.

Dine in style at Mitani Cafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Divella Bistro Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Reggae Br Shot & Food offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Just Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

Greet day 5 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Istanbul allows for both. Start by heading to Beyazıt Square. This well-known public square provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Spice Bazaar, a heritage-rich market, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Gülhane Park, a spectacular park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the famous Topkapı Palace.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Istanbul. This car ride takes around 8 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Süleymaniye Mosque. Spend some time admiring the symbolic features of the mosque before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu, 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 Yalova. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Eyüpsultan, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Üsküdar to Eyüpsultan may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Eyüpsultan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a popular mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Yıldız Park and admire its serene features. When you’re ready, continue to Dolmabahçe Palace, a top-rated palace beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eyüpsultan. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Eyüp Sultan Mosque is an extraordinary mosque we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Yalova. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at AYLA Balık, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Dörtyol Kokoreç is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sandal Balık. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Yalova tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Guitar Heroes. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Divan Teras Cafe & Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Yucca Live Performance, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 7 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 Konak. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Konak. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Hisar Mosque, a locally appreciated mosque known for its photogenic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Kemeraltı, a popular market that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Clock Tower Of İzmir and uncover the details of this picture-perfect monument. Make sure to also explore Konak Square, an underrated square that offers a unique experience.

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 Izmir. Izmir 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 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Tavacı Recep Usta in Izmir by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Tavacı Recep Usta delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious turkish and traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Adil Müftüoğlu, acclaimed for its delectable turkish specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Catch, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Stone Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Sky Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Aydın. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Denizli, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Aydın allows for both.

Begin your journey at Buyuk Menderes National Park and explore the scenic features.

Denizli’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aydın behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours. Denizli welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Ramazan Pasha Mosque, a beloved mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Suleiman Bey Mosque and admire its heritage-rich features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Denizli. 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 Denizli. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Akcesme Kokorec, an iconic dining spot in Denizli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ATA BREAD FACTORY, a popular restaurant in Denizli. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of CAFE Pİ, a hidden gem nestled in Denizli. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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