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

On day 2 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 Pamukkale and Denizli. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aydın, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Denizli today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Denizli Gondola. This stunning tramway will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pamukkale, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Denizli to Pamukkale may take around 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park, an often recommended park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

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

As you explore more of Aydın, 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.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Selçuk and Konak. 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.

Immerse yourself in Selçuk’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Konak. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a well-known museum known for its photogenic features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Konak. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Clock Tower Of İzmir and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Kemeraltı, another highlight in the town.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tabipler Lokali, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Abidin Usta. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, My Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cemil is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Bursa is home to plenty of attractions that offer a stunning, a visually striking, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, and a grand! Start at Bursa Grand Mosque, a popular mosque that is worthwhile a visit in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Üsküdar. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a popular mosque that everyone visiting Üsküdar should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Yıldız Park. This respected park is one of the most interesting attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Dolmabahçe Palace, an enchanting palace, popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Üsküdar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Eyüpsultan. Your travel time is around 18 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Miniatürk. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Beyoğlu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beyoğlu beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Galata Tower and explore the symbolic features.

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 Istanbul. Istanbul 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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Sankai by Nagaya, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Istanbul is Arkestra, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious fusion menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Malt Bar Gayrettepe is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Rounder's Irish Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bursa and Istanbul. You still have 2 nights left in Istanbul.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring an instagrammable, a respected, a romantic, a breathtaking, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a culturally significant. Start at Grand Bazaar, a timeless market in the city. Then, head to Sultanahmet Square and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul and when you are ready for more, go to Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This is one of the city’s most famous spots. After exploring the mosque, visit the timeless Hagia Sophia.

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

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Reggae Br Shot & Food after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Just Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Discover a day packed with a visually striking and a historically significant in Istanbul. Begin your sightseeing with Spice Bazaar. This wondrous market is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Basilica Cistern, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.

After soaking in Fatih’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Istanbul. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in Istanbul, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Süleymaniye Mosque, an extraordinary mosque that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Pierre Loti Hotel, 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 By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Istanbul tonight.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul, Beyoğlu, and Eyüpsultan, 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 Eskişehir. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Istanbul is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park and a palace. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the impressive Gülhane Park. Just a short distance away is Topkapı Palace, a picture-perfect palace that draws visitors from far and near.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Eyüpsultan, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Beyoğlu to Eyüpsultan may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Eyüpsultan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Eyüp Sultan Mosque. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the mosque before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Eskişehir. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Eskişehir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ciğerci Ahmet, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Oda Restoran offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tatlıdil Köftecisi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Eskişehir.

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

Greet day 8 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Eskişehir for your remaining 3 nights in the city 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 Karacaşehir, Tepebaşı, Odunpazarı, and Eskişehir.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Eskişehir today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Dede Korkut Park. This breathtaking park will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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

Head to Odunpazarı Botanik Park, an underrated botanical garden in Karacaşehir. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tepebaşı, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Karacaşehir to Tepebaşı may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tepebaşı, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, an underrated zoo that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tepebaşı, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Odunpazarı. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Aydın Arat Park. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island. This intriguing park is a traveler-favorite in the village. Not far away, you’ll also find Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

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

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

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.

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.

On day 10 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Eskişehir, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Eskişehir for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Odunpazarı, Sivrihisar, and Eskişehir to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Odunpazarı’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Eskişehir behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Odunpazarı welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Eskişehir Etİ Archaeological Museum is a beloved museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to Anadolu Üniversitesi Cumhuriyet Tarihi Müzesi, a photogenic museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Set your GPS to Sivrihisar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sivrihisar beckons with new experiences!

Taner'in Evi - Gönül Dağı is a worthwhile point of interest we recommend making time to visit today. Next, stop by Sivrihisar Clock Tower, a breathtaking monument.

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

As you explore more of Eskişehir, 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 Abdüsselam Balaban Kebap Salonu, a top-rated dining destination in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Husnuniyet Lokantasi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Yusufeli Coruh Doner. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Eskişehir this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Afyonkarahisar and Merkezefendi. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Denizli. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Eskişehir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Afyonkarahisar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours. When you arrive in Afyonkarahisar, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Afyonkarahisar Castle. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Afyon Fairy Tale World Park. This underrated amusement park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Merkezefendi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Afyonkarahisar behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 48 min. Merkezefendi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Adalet Parkı, a curiosity-inducing park that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Denizli, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Akcesme Kokorec, an iconic dining spot in Denizli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ATA BREAD FACTORY, a popular restaurant in Denizli. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of CAFE Pİ, a hidden gem nestled in Denizli. 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!