10-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling west to Bursa, Izmir, and Manisa

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, including a mosque, a market, and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque. This top-rated mosque is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Spice Bazaar, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Istanbul on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Grand Bazaar, an iconic market in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Sultanahmet Square and Sultan Ahmed 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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Istanbul and Beyoğlu. You still have 1 night left in Istanbul.

Start by visiting Topkapı Palace, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Hagia Sophia, another must-visit landmark and timeless mosque renowned for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Istanbul by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Basilica Cistern. This photogenic archeological site is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Galata Tower also adds charm to your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pierre Loti Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Büyük Mecidiye Mosque is must-visit mosque and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Yıldız Park, an interesting park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dolmabahçe Palace, an eye-catching palace, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Istanbul. If you’re looking for more, Eyüp Sultan Mosque is also a top-rated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Galata Bridge, a notable gem to see in the town.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bursa at Tabipler Lokali, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Abidin Usta. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bursa tonight.

Continue your lively evening at My Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cemil ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

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 Karabağlar and Konak. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Just a short distance away is Güzelyali Park, a visually striking park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Konak Square, one of the town’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Clock Tower Of İzmir. Last up on today’s itinerary is a market. Make your way to Kemeraltı for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Bursa.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish and traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

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

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Izmir for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Çeşme and Izmir to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Çeşme Castle. This notable castle is a culturally significant place to see in Izmir. Continue your discovery at Alaçatı Değirmenleri, a history-steeped monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Izmir, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Alaçatı Çarşı. This locally renowned market offers a visually striking encounter with Izmir. Next, make your way to İzulaş A. Ş. İzmİr Balçova Teleferİk to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Buca Gölet, an often recommended park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Izmir.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Puerta Alsancak? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cappadocia Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Izmir, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. Start at Key Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum in the region. Then, head to Basilica Of Saint John and soak in the ambiance of this majestic church.

There are many interesting places to see in Izmir and when you are ready for more, go to Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This is one of the region’s most locally renowned spots. After exploring the museum, visit the underrated The Temple Of Artemis. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the intriguing Library Of Celsus, an intriguing archeological site in the region.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mado, a popular restaurant in Izmir. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Izmir at Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Izmir tonight.

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

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

On day 8 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 Manisa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Izmir, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, a worthwhile park in the city.

There are many interesting places to see in Izmir and when you are ready for more, go to Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots. After exploring the observation deck, visit the captivating İzmir Wildlife Park. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the captivating Old Foca Coast, a captivating beach in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Manisa. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!