12-Day Turkey Road Trip from Ayvalık to Bursa, Manisa, Denizli, and Izmir

Say hello to Ayvalık! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Ayvalık for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Ayvalık. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kök Tadım Mutfağı, a top-rated dining destination in Ayvalık. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ayvalık Meyhanesi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ayvalik Pasali Corba. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ayvalık this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting White Knight Cafe Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bardak, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Çeşni Cunda also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Turkey!

On day 2 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Ayvalık, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the region. Since you will return to Ayvalık for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ayvalık, Beyoba, and Akçay to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Aşıklar Tepesi. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,012 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cunda Merkez. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,108 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beyoba. This drive usually takes around 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Sütüven Şelalesi. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,886 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Beyoba, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Akçay. This drive usually takes around 19 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Akçay Çıkışlı Turlar. Previous visitors have rated this travel agency an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,410 reviews.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Orchis boutique hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sofia Ayvalık is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SUKHA CUNDA OTEL. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ayvalık tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kraft Ayvalık, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Shelby Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ayvalık. Orman Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Ayvalık, and Balıkesir. 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 4 nights.

After soaking in Balıkesir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bursa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 30 min. When you arrive in Bursa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Zagnos Pasha Mosque your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,483 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,278 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,262 visitors.

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.

As you explore more of Bursa, 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 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 Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at My Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bursa. Cemil is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Gölyazı has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Bursa by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the village.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Green Tomb. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,396 visitors.

Next, make your way to Emir Sultan Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 10,128 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Gölyazı, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Gölyazı below.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Abidin Usta, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at TANDIR'AZ BURSA. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kule Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bursa.

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.

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 2 nights left in Bursa, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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 Iznik may take around 1 hour 8 min. Upon your arrival in Iznik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Hagia Sophia Mosque. This popular mosque has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,848 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Süleyman Paşa Madrasa. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 675 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Iznik Turkish Islamic Arts Museum. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,762 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Iznik Castle. This point of interest and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,924 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Lefke Gate. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 675 travelers, this point of interest is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Iznik.

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

As you explore more of Bursa, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Tepe Cafe & Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Labelle Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Fayton Kafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bursa, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Uludağ Sarıalan. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,363 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Koza Han. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,790 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Bursa Grand Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 40,156 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Han Brass. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,719 visitors.

Set your GPS to Osmangazi and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Osmangazi beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Botanik Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,326 visitors.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Titiz Izgara, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Opus Live Bursa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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 2 vibrant destinations - Bursa, and Osmangazi. 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Heykel. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,191 visitors.

Next, make your way to Bursa City Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,057 reviews.

While in Bursa, we also recommend a visit to İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 24,970 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Osmangazi.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Karagoz Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,037 reviews.

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 Manisa. Manisa 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.

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

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

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pamukkale, and Denizli. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Denizli, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Pamukkale and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pamukkale beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Travertines Of Pamukkale. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 71,468 visitors.

Pamukkale South Gate is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This parking has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,955 travelers.

Set your GPS to Denizli and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Denizli beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Laodicea Ancient City, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,529 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Denizli Gondola. This gondola lift has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,448 travelers.

Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,695 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Denizli, 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 Denizli's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Miske Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arif Usta Pide, Çorba & Izgara Salonu beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Holly Stone. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Denizli tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Woops Cafe&bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Pub Locale Denizli Çamlık is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Belly offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 9 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 Kuşadası, Karabağlar, and Konak. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Kuşadası’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Denizli behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min. Kuşadası welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ladies Beach. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,759 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kuşadası, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Karabağlar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,807 reviews.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish, and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Catch, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stone Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bonema Cafe & Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 10 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Izmir for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

You can learn more about Çeşme today by going on a tour. Çeşme offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SELİM DE ÇEŞME KUMRU TOST SANDVİÇ IZGARA KÖFTE KONAK ÇEŞME KUMRU. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Sky Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Chaos Cafe Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tattoo Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Izmir, and Foça, 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 Ayvalık. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,680 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,479 reviews.

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 Ayvalık. Ayvalık 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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at CUNDA OTEL, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Macaron Cafe & Bistro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at O' Meyhane (By Kayra ). As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ayvalık tonight.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ayvalık before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Atatürk Monument. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ares Cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ayvalık Müptela Köftecisi offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aranan Köfteci.

You’ll then say farewell to Ayvalık. 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!