12-Day Turkey Road Trip from Goreme traveling east to Mersin, Adana, Gaziantep, and Kayseri

Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Goreme and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Goreme for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the village.

Goreme is a beautiful village 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 Goreme. 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 village.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Orient, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kapadokya Kebapzade offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Goreme.

Keep the evening going at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 3 nights left in Goreme, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Kaymaklı Underground City. This extraordinary town municipality of turkey has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,008 visitors.

Çardak welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Çardak Saray Yeraltı Evi Underground cıty. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,026 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Nevşehir, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Goreme. Your travel time is around 31 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Nevşehir Castle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,509 visitors.

When you’re finished at Nevşehir Castle, head to Efe Nevşehir Cappadocia Rent A Car Car Rental. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 548 reviews.

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

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Göreme Kaya Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Goreme. If you're in the mood for something new, try THE HANGOUT, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Red Red Wine House, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Goreme, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nevşehir. This car ride takes around 37 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Zelve Open Air Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,967 reviews.

When you arrive in Çavuşin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Paşabağları Müze ve Örenyeri your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,705 reviews.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Gurme kebab restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at M&M, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Özkonak, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Goreme for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Özkonak, Urgup, Nevşehir, and Hacıbektaş to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

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

Journey into the unknown at Özkonak, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable town municipality of turkey has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,285 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Urgup, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Urgup, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Temenni Tepesi. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,725 reviews.

Set your GPS to Goreme and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Goreme beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kizilcukur Valley(Gun batimi). This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,084 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Goreme Historical National Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,827 reviews.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Sedef, an iconic dining spot in Goreme. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Topdeck Cave, a popular restaurant in Goreme. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Akgedik and Tarsus. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Mersin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Upon your arrival in Akgedik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Tarsus Hayvan Parkı. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,031 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tarsus, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Tarsus, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Tarsus Dam Picnic Area. This attraction has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,991 visitors.

Cleopatra Gate is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,242 travelers.

Tarsus is also the home of Nusret Mayın Gemisi ve Çanakkale Zaferi Kültür Parkı. Around 2,833 people have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Mersin, 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Mersin's best restaurants.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Cemil baba Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Mersin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Remzi Usta, a popular restaurant in Mersin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Kiremithane, a hidden gem nestled in Mersin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into small lights cafe bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Mersin, Narlıkuyu, and Taşkuyu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Adana. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Ulu Cami. This mosque is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,164 reviews.

Continue your journey at Atatürk Parkı. This park is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 11,217 travelers from near and far.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Asthma Cave. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,635 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Adana. Adana offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Adana, 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 Kazancılar Restoran Büyüksaat, a top-rated dining destination in Adana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mert Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sirdanci Bedo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Adana this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Baran Türkü Evi stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Adana, Yüreğir, and Seyhan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gaziantep, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Great Clock Tower. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,602 reviews.

Upon your arrival in Yüreğir, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Stone Bridge. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Yüreğir, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,899 visitors.

Seyhan Merkez Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,104 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Sabanci Central Mosque. Visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,087 reviews.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Terra Pizza | Gazi Muhtar - Gaziantep, an iconic dining spot in Gaziantep. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of YESEMEK GAZİANTEP MUTFAĞI, a popular restaurant in Gaziantep. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Baklavaci Zeki İnal, a hidden gem nestled in Gaziantep. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Gaziantep for your remaining 1 night 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 Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa.

Make Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo one of your first sightseeing stops in Gaziantep. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,435 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Gaziantep Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 16,709 reviews.

Set your GPS to Şanlıurfa 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. Şanlıurfa beckons with new experiences!

Make Göbekli Tepe one of your first sightseeing stops in Şanlıurfa. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,139 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

As you explore more of Gaziantep, 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 book a table at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Gaziantep. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Gaziantep at Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap, 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 Kahveci Fayat Usta. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Gaziantep tonight.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Şehitkamil and Gaziantep. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kayseri, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Botanical Garden. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,910 reviews.

Next up is Mothers Park. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,358 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Erikche Piknik Forest. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 6,479 reviews.

When you arrive in Şehitkamil, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Zeugma Mosaics Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,625 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kayseri, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hasan Usta Et Lokantası, a top-rated dining spot in Kayseri. If you're in the mood for something new, try Taşmekan Et Lokantası, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Elvan Lokantası. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kayseri.

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

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

Make Atatürk House Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Kayseri. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,440 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Kayseri Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This castle is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,847 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Archeological Museum. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,317 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Cumhuriyet Meydanı. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 5,907 previous visitors.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Kayseri on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizza Uno, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try KAFKAS MUTFAK? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kaygısız Izgara as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kayseri.

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

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

Make Kıranardı Mesire Alanı your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,454 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Kayseri Zoo. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,165 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Goreme. Goreme offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Goreme. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Omurca Art Cave, a popular restaurant in Goreme. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Goreme at İnci Cave Restaurant Göreme, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

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

On your last day in Turkey, take time to indulge in shopping at Goreme’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the village’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Turkey. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Turkey forever.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zest Cappadocia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sultan Cave Suites? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Goreme. 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!