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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Konak, and Izmir. You still have 2 nights left in Izmir.

Kick off the day at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,395 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Izmir. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Kick off the day at Konak Square, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,737 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Konak Mosque. Konak Mosque is a mosque with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,868 reviews.

Clock Tower Of İzmir is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,286 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, 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.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Tavacı Recep Usta, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional turkish, and traditional menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Adil Müftüoğlu, known for its delicious turkish cuisine.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Sky Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Chaos Cafe Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tattoo Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ayvalık, Balıkesir, and Karesi. 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.

Karesi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Balıkesir behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Karesi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,278 visitors.

When you’re finished at Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir, head to Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,262 reviews.

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

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at My Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cemil, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Beyoğlu, and Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Beyoğlu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beyoğlu beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Galata Tower, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 172,160 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Beyoğlu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Istanbul. Your travel time is around 11 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Topkapı Palace. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,459 visitors. Each year, around 1,932,726 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Gülhane Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,194 reviews.

While in Istanbul, we also recommend a visit to Spice Bazaar. This bazaar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 168,628 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque. With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 travelers, this mosque is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Istanbul.

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 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.

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.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Istanbul. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Yalova. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Take the opportunity to see Grand Bazaar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 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 Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Around 95,369 people have rated this mosque an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Hagia Sophia. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 129,265 reviews, a visit to this minor basilica 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Yalova. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Dörtyol Kokoreç, a popular restaurant in Yalova. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Yalova at Sandal Balık, 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 Yalova Sütlüsü. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Yalova tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Guitar Heroes, known for its lively atmosphere. Divan Teras Cafe & Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Yucca Live Performance offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!