11-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling east to Ankara, Goreme, Konya, Pamukkale, and Selçuk

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Istanbul, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A visit to Beyoğlu in Istanbul is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out İstiklal Avenue as well, a street that adds another layer to your exploration.

Istanbul is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Topkapı Palace, an extraordinary palace that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Grand Bazaar, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Spice Bazaar. This market is one of the city’s most world-famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Istanbul at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Galata Tower.

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 delightful dinner at Mitani Cafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Divella Bistro Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Reggae Br Shot & Food after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Just Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ankara and Altındağ. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ankara, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Istanbul includes a monument, a mosque, and a museum. Anıtkabir is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Haci Bayram Mosque, a locally renowned mosque, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a standout museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Dine in style at Livorno Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Filikos Restoran boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ankara.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Muddy Waters. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Nil Rock Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Always Rock Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 Goreme for your remaining 1 night in the village 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 Nevşehir, Urgup, Uçhisar, and Kaymaklı.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Goreme Historical National Park. This interesting national park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Twin Fairy Chimneys, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Pigeon Valley Hotel, one of the most captivating places to see in Goreme. This hiking area is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Kaymaklı Underground City. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this cave system offers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at THE HANGOUT, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Turkish Ravioli Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Gurme kebab restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Goreme.

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

On day 6 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 Karatay, Konya, and Selçuklu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Konya, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Mevlâna Museum. This widely recognized museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Selimiye Mosque, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Shams Of Tabriz Mosque And Tomb, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Goreme. This mosque is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Culture Park. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Stone Works Museum Of Fine Minaret, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Kafem Gedavet, an iconic dining spot in Konya. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı, a popular restaurant in Konya. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Asmalı Konak Bilardo, a hidden gem nestled in Konya. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Grand Maksim Gazinosu, known for its lively atmosphere. Cafe Extrablatt is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mr. Frog Pub Bistro offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Pamukkale, 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 Pamukkale. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Konya. Begin your sightseeing with Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This up-and-coming archeological site is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Pamukkale Theatre, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Konya, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Natural Park. This locally appreciated park is a traveler-favorite.

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

As you explore more of Pamukkale, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Traverten Pide, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Seven Spices İndian restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pamukkale.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Marina Clup. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Pamukkale, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Pamukkale, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Aphrodisias Ancient City Museum, a frequently visited archeological site in the village. Then, head to Laodicea Ancient City and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Pamukkale, and when you are ready for more, go to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This is one of the village’s most increasingly popular UNESCO world heritage-designated spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the famous Travertines Of Pamukkale.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at GURME RESTAURANT CAFE, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kayas Wine House is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at ONUR RESTAURANT. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pamukkale tonight.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Selçuk and Izmir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Selçuk, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Pamukkale allows for both. Start by heading to Virgin Mary Statue. This increasingly popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to House Of Virgin Mary, an often recommended church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated The Temple Of Artemis. Not far away from the archeological site, you will find the breathtaking Basilica Of Saint John, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Ephesus Archaeological Museum, another gem in Pamukkale with photogenic features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Selçuk, 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 Selçuk. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bursa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Selçuk. Your adventure starts at Koza Han, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bursa Grand Mosque. This well-known mosque is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Selçuk's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Heykel. This historic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Emir Sultan Mosque is also worth visiting.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pierre Loti Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

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