11-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Izmir traveling north to Denizli, Eskişehir, Istanbul, and Bursa

On day 2 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 still have 1 night to spend in Izmir, there’s no need to rush. Experience Konak and Izmir to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to explore Konak on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Catch Konak Square before the crowds roll in. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Clock Tower Of İzmir, a must-visit monument in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Kemeraltı, an interesting market. For a change of scene, check out Hisar Mosque, known for its heritage-rich features. We also recommend visiting Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This concert hall is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

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

Izmir 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 Izmir.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Izmir by securing a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, famous for its scrumptious turkish dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Izmir and Foça. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Denizli, where you'll spend 1 night.

Start your day at Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası. This romantic observation deck is an up-and-coming place to see in Izmir. Then, wander over to Old Foca Coast. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this beach will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find İzmir Wildlife Park. This peaceful zoo is a favorite among visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Denizli. 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 Denizli, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Lavin Otel Denizli, a top-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ruma Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gökçen Gözleme Evi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Denizli this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Pamukkale, Denizli, and Kütahya. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Eskişehir, where will spend 3 nights.

Experience Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park, an increasingly popular park in the town. Then, head to Denizli Gondola and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect tramway.

There are many interesting places to see in Denizli, and when you are ready for more, go to Kütahya Ulu Camii. This is one of the town’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Eskişehir. Eskişehir 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 Eskişehir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ciğerci Ahmet, an iconic dining spot in Eskişehir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oda Restoran, a popular restaurant in Eskişehir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Tatlıdil Köftecisi, a hidden gem nestled in Eskişehir. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Eskişehir, Tepebaşı, Odunpazarı, and Sivrihisar. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Eskişehir, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

Dede Korkut Park is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This awe-inspiring park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, another must-visit landmark and beloved aviation museum renowned for its respected features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Eskişehir by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island. This mesmerizing park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Eskişehir experience. We also recommend visiting Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a popular park. Nearby, you'll also find Sivrihisar Clock Tower, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Ada Life Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Muhtelif Eskişehir beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider PİNO. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Eskişehir tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Eskişehir, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Karacaşehir, Tepebaşı, and Odunpazarı.

Karacaşehir is brimming with adventures.

Odunpazarı Botanik Park makes a great addition to your morning plans. This worthwhile botanical garden is an instagrammable place to see in Eskişehir. Continue your discovery at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, a photogenic zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Eskişehir, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Anadolu Üniversitesi Cumhuriyet Tarihi Müzesi. This locally appreciated museum offers a photogenic encounter with Eskişehir. Next, make your way to Eskişehir Odunpazarı Evleri to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Eskişehir.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Yörük Çadırı Eskişehir, a top-rated dining destination in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Birtat Mersin Tantuni, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Nazar Kebap. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Eskişehir this evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Beyoğlu and Istanbul are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Galata Tower is must-visit observation deck and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Hagia Sophia, a world-famous mosque, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a breathtaking mosque, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Malt Bar Gayrettepe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night.

Topkapı Palace brings Istanbul's character to life. This picture-perfect palace is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Gülhane Park, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Spice Bazaar, one of the city’s most globally renowned attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Süleymaniye Mosque. This breathtaking mosque is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Grand Bazaar, a wondrous market, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Reggae Br Shot & Food stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Just Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Büyük Mecidiye Mosque makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned mosque is a historic place to see in Istanbul. Continue your discovery at Yıldız Park, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Istanbul, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace. This impressive palace offers a majestic encounter with Istanbul. Next, make your way to Eyüp Sultan Mosque to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Galata Bridge, a locally renowned bascule bridge 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 Istanbul.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tabipler Lokali offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Abidin Usta is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at My Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cemil provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bursa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Izmir, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Koza Han, a popular market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Bursa Grand Mosque, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Uludag National Park. This park is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bursa at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit İnkaya Historical Plane Tree.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mado, a top-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Eko Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Deep Rock Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Outro Momento Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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