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

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Fatih. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Süleymaniye Mosque is must-visit mosque and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Spice Bazaar, a globally renowned market, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Grand Bazaar, a heritage-rich market, 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. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the captivating Sultanahmet Square. If you’re looking for more, Sultan Ahmed Mosque is also an astonishing attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Turkey. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Istanbul, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Start your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Istanbul and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Istanbul, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Let Topkapı Palace set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant palace before continuing your journey. Hagia Sophia is your next stop. This world-famous mosque is one of the best-rated sights in Istanbul.

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 Basilica Cistern. This instagrammable archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Galata Tower.

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

Istanbul is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.

Don’t miss out on dining at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pierre Loti Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa, where will spend 1 night.

No visit to Istanbul is complete without Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This captivating mosque is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Yıldız Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Istanbul, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dolmabahçe Palace. This astonishing palace is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Eyüp Sultan Mosque, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Galata Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bursa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Abidin Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Keep the evening going at My Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cemil, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Karabağlar and Konak are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the well-known İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a romantic historical landmark in Bursa. Next, go to Güzelyali Park.

Clock Tower Of İzmir is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Kemeraltı, one of the most photogenic places to visit in Bursa.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Izmir. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Izmir, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Tavacı Recep Usta in Izmir by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Tavacı Recep Usta offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious turkish and traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Adil Müftüoğlu, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing turkish cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Catch, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Stone Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Sky Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Çeşme and Izmir.

Make time for Çeşme Castle, a notable castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Alaçatı Değirmenleri, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Alaçatı Çarşı. This market is one of the town’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Izmir at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit İzulaş A. Ş. İzmİr Balçova Teleferİk. After exploring the tramway, head to the worthwhile Buca Gölet.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, 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 La Puerta 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 Cappadocia Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Izmir tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Chaos Cafe Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Tattoo Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Izmir and Selçuk. With 1 night to stay in Izmir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Key Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Basilica Of Saint John, a picture-perfect church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ephesus Archaeological Museum, one of the region’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated The Temple Of Artemis. When you're finished at the archeological site, Library Of Celsus awaits your visit. This archeological site is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

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 a true cultural experience.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Eko Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Deep Rock Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Outro Momento Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Izmir and Foça. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Manisa, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make a stop at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This intriguing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Dolphins Statue located in Izmir for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the city with a visit to İzmir Wildlife Park. Visitors usually appreciate the gorgeous features of this zoo. Next up is Old Foca Coast, a highly recommended beach.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Manisa. Manisa offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Manisa is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Manisa.

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.

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