12-Day Turkey Road Trip from Hatay to Adana, Goreme, Ankara, Aksaray, Mersin, and Gaziantep

Welcome to Hatay, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Hatay's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Hatay is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Ataturk Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Hatay. 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 city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hatay. 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 ASMAALTI RESTAURANT, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Edem Pastanesi boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Maho'nun Yeri. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hatay.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. DIONYSOS ŞARAP EVİ is an excellent place to start. You could also check out J'adore, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bade Wine House. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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 Antakya, Bozlu, and Hıdırbey. In the evening, you’ll end up in Adana, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Make Church of St Pierre your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 6,483 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Hatay Archeology Museum. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,249 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Harbiye Falls. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 16,428 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kazancılar Restoran Büyüksaat, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mert Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Sirdanci Bedo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Adana.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Baran Türkü Evi, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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.

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

Kaymaklı welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Kaymaklı Underground City one of your first sightseeing stops in Kaymaklı. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,377 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Set your GPS to Nevşehir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nevşehir beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Nevşehir Castle. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,561 reviews.

Love Valley is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,998 reviews.

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

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 Orient, 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 Kapadokya Kebapzade, 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 Göreme Kaya Otel. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Goreme tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Red Red Wine House is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. M&M is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Goreme and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Çavuşin, Nevşehir, and Derinkuyu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ankara, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Paşabağları Müze ve Örenyeri. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,979 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nevşehir, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Goreme may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in Goreme, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Goreme Historical National Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Nevşehir, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,907 visitors.

Kizilcukur Valley(Gun batimi) is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,155 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Ankara. Ankara 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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Filikos Restoran, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of MARTI RESTAURANT, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Muddy Waters, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Nil Rock Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Always Rock Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Çankaya for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Independence Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Anıtkabir. This mausoleum has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 120,860 travelers.

Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,678 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Çankaya has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Çankaya offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

As you explore more of Ankara, 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 Golden Pavilion Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Afganistan Sofrası, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at On An On Rock Cafe, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Fat Boy Bar & Grill. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Ankara, 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 Aksaray. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Continue your journey at Ankara Castle. This castle is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,722 travelers from near and far.

Ankara is also the home of Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,978 visitors. Each year, around 450,000 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Haci Bayram Mosque. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,925 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Aksaray, 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 Aksaray's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Seyhan, and Yüreğir. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Mersin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Seyhan.

When you're ready to see some sights, Ataturk Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,452 visitors.

Upon reaching Yüreğir, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Seyhan Merkez Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,219 visitors.

Sabanci Central Mosque is another popular attraction you could visit today. This mosque has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,166 visitors.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Cemil baba Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Remzi Usta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kiremithane. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Mersin tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting small lights cafe bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

On day 8 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 Yüreğir, and Adana. In the evening, you’ll end up in Gaziantep, where you will stay for 3 nights.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Stone Bridge. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,058 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Mersin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Adana. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Great Clock Tower, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,784 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Adana Grand Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,351 travelers.

Adana Cinema Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned filmmaking offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,354 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Gaziantep. Gaziantep 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Gaziantep. 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.

Savor the flavors at Terra Pizza | Gazi Muhtar - Gaziantep, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, YESEMEK GAZİANTEP MUTFAĞI beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Baklavaci Zeki İnal. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Gaziantep tonight.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Gaziantep has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Gaziantep by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Şahinler Vadisi Miniatürk. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,578 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Bayazhan Gaziantep Kent Müzesi. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 544 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Botanical Garden. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,011 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Gaziantep has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Gaziantep. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kahveci Fayat Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Gaziantep this evening.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Gaziantep. You have 1 night left in Gaziantep. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mothers Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Gaziantep, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,418 visitors.

Gaziantep Archeology Museum is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,832 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Gaziantep Museum of Toys and Games. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,242 reviews.

Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,531 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Gaziantep 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 Gaziantep. 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at The Lotte Cafe Bistro, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Dostlar Meyhanesi is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kasap Halil Usta Fırınlı Et Lokantası. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gaziantep tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 - Gaziantep, and Şehitkamil. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hatay. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ömeriye Camii. This mosque is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Gaziantep, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 915 visitors.

Gaziantep Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 16,768 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Dülükbaba Picnic Area. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,614 reviews.

Erikche Piknik Forest is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sightseeing destination rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 6,547 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Şehitkamil.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Zeugma Mosaics Museum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 20,108 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Humusçu Nedim Usta, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Müzeyyen Antakya boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Neyzen Antakya. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hatay.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to No: 11 Beer House, known for its inviting atmosphere. Retroo Cafe Lounge Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Ilya Garden Cafe & Country Garden provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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

Maximize your last day in Turkey and go on a shopping spree in Hatay’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Turkey.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Zeus Antik. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 445 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Unesco Hatay Gastronomi Evi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Hatay. 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!