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

Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Izmir and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Izmir for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Izmir is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Izmir. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

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. Consider reserving a table at La Puerta Alsancak as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Catch. Alternatively, go to Bonema Cafe & Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Chaos Cafe Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Turkey!

Day 2 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Konak. You have 2 nights left in Konak. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,336 visitors.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, a top-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SELİM DE ÇEŞME KUMRU TOST SANDVİÇ IZGARA KÖFTE KONAK ÇEŞME KUMRU. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tattoo Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dinosaur Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Eko Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Çeşme. You’ll stay in Çeşme for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Buca Gölet. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,702 reviews.

Your discoveries in Çeşme do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Çeşme on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at rePUBlic-izmir, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Moresi Girit Mutfağı offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Pierto is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Izmir.

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

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Izmir and Foça. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ayvalık, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,502 visitors.

When you’re finished at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, head to Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,432 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ayvalık, 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 Ayvalık.

Savor the flavors at Kök Tadım Mutfağı, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ayvalık Meyhanesi beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ayvalik Pasali Corba. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ayvalık tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into White Knight Cafe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bardak offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Çeşni Cunda, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Ayvalık, Balıkesir, and Karesi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Balıkesir.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,208 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,162 travelers.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Kitap Evi Otel, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bursa at Tabipler Lokali, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bursa tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting My Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cemil also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

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

Upon reaching Beyoğlu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Galata Tower. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 170,132 visitors.

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 Istanbul may take around 2 hours 5 min. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Topkapı Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 96,057 visitors. Topkapı Palace welcomes around 1,932,726 visitors every year.

Gülhane Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 60,543 visitors.

Spice Bazaar is also highly recommended by travelers. This bazaar has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 166,475 visitors.

Süleymaniye Mosque is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 52,271 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Arkestra, a local gem known for its delightful fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Keep the evening going at BrusQ Bar & Hookah Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Rounder's Irish Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Karga Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to Istanbul and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Yalova, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Grand Bazaar. This extraordinary bazaar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 147,322 visitors.

Next, make your way to Basilica Cistern. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 69,691 reviews.

While in Istanbul, we also recommend a visit to Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 93,360 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Hagia Sophia. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 128,176 travelers, this minor basilica is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Istanbul.

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

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

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bursa. 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Yalova, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bursa may take around 1 hour 8 min. Upon your arrival in Bursa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Grand Mosque of Bursa. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 39,387 reviews.

Continue your journey at Koza Han. This bazaar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 30,333 travelers from near and far.

Bursa is also the home of Orhan Gazi Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 979 visitors.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Litany, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Efendi Restoran offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Dergah Cafe&Bar Ocakbaşı Restoran is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Manisa.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kuşadası and Aydın. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Manisa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kuşadası. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, El Heykeli is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,654 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ladies Beach. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,463 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aydın, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Aydın, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Zeus Cave, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 6,452 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Izmir. Izmir offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ristorante Pizzeria Venedik, a top-rated dining spot in Izmir. If you're in the mood for something new, try Yüzde Yüz Food & Drink & Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kofteci Salih. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Izmir.

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

Day 10 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Izmir before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Turkey, take a moment for some retail therapy in Izmir’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Turkey, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Turkey with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Izmir.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

You’ll then say farewell to Izmir. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!