12-Day Turkey Road Trip from Goreme traveling west to Konya, Antalya, Aydın, Bursa, Istanbul, Sakarya, and Ankara

Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Goreme and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Goreme for 1 night 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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Goreme. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Orient, a highly-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kapadokya Kebapzade, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Göreme Kaya Otel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Red Red Wine House is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Uçhisar, Nevşehir, and Kaymaklı. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Konya, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Take the opportunity to see Pigeon Valley Hotel. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,226 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 10 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 Nevşehir Castle. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Nevşehir, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,509 visitors.

Efe Nevşehir Cappadocia Rent A Car Car Rental is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 548 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Şehitler Parkı. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 311 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Konya. Konya 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Konya.

Savor the flavors at Kafem Gedavet, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Asmalı Konak Bilardo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Konya tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cafe Extrablatt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Mr. Frog Pub Bistro, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Karatay and Side, 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 Antalya. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mevlâna Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 62,981 visitors.

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

Take the opportunity to see Apollon Temple. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,388 visitors.

Side Ancient City is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,806 travelers.

Side is also the home of Anitsal Cesme (Nymphaeum). Around 4,409 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Antalya, 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 Antalya, 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 Antalya Balıkevi, a popular restaurant in Antalya. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Antalya at Kebap 32 Salih, 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 Ship Inn Marina Restaurant&Bar. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Antalya tonight.

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

On day 4 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 Muratpaşa, Antalya, and Denizli. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aydın, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Antalya Archeology Museum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,804 reviews.

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

Drop by the renowned Karaalioglu Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,260 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Aydın, 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aydın. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Tarihi Sarıoğlu Lokantası, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Dede Lokantası boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Baba Sakir Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aydın.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into ŞAPILDAK CAFE & BAR. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Raven Cafe & Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Yeni Eski Cafe Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Selçuk and Izmir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Aydın, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Selçuk. Your travel time is around 45 min.

Journey into the unknown at Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable archaeological museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,865 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, İsa bey Mosque is a recommended place to visit. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,962 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Izmir. This car ride takes around 46 min.

Make Buca Gölet your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,702 reviews.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tabipler Lokali is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bursa tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting My Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cemil also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bursa and Üsküdar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Mosque of Bursa. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 39,387 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Koza Han. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,333 reviews.

Kick off the day at Dolmabahçe Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,645 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque). Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque) is a mosque with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 33,548 reviews.

Yıldız Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,412 visitors.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Calipso Fish delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Sankai by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Arkestra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, BrusQ Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Karga Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Beyoğlu. You’ll stay in Beyoğlu for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned Süleymaniye Mosque. This popular mosque has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 52,271 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Beyazıt Square. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,033 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Spice Bazaar. This bazaar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 166,475 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Topkapı Palace, drawing over 1,932,726 yearly visitors. This palace and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 96,057 local and international travelers.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Istanbul. 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 Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Resto Han. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Just Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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.

Day 8 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Istanbul. You have 1 night left in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Grand Bazaar. Previous visitors have rated this bazaar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 147,322 reviews.

Sultanahmet Square is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 31,239 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 93,360 reviews.

Hagia Sophia is another outstanding experience in Istanbul. Around 128,176 travelers have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Gülhane Park is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 60,543 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Istanbul, 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 Istanbul below.

As you explore more of Istanbul, 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.

Savor the flavors at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hanzade Terrace Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Istanbul tonight.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Fatih, Beyoğlu, Üsküdar, Istanbul, and Beykoz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sakarya, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Ümraniye National Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,118 reviews.

Fatih welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Eyüp Sultan Mosque your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 58,559 reviews.

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

Journey into the unknown at Galata Bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bascule bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,649 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sakarya, 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 Sakarya. 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 Beytuş Hamburger & Pizza, a top-rated dining destination in Sakarya. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mono Cafe - Segafredo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Köfteci İsmail. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sakarya 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.

Dive into day 10 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 Ankara. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sakarya, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ankara. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Haci Bayram Mosque. This much-appreciated mosque is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,579 reviews.

Next up is Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,682 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Museum of Anatolian Civilizations welcomes 450,000 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Ankara Evi Park. This park has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 967 reviews.

Ankara Castle is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,465 reviews.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Ankara.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try MARTI RESTAURANT, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Afganistan Sofrası. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

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

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

On day 11 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 Ankara and Çankaya. In the evening, you’ll end up in Goreme, where you will stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,418 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Independence Park. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,754 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Anıtkabir. This mausoleum has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 119,472 reviews.

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Kuğulu Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,890 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kuğulu Park, head to Seğmenler Parkı. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,239 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Goreme, 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 Goreme, 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 THE HANGOUT, a highly-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're eager to try something different, consider Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gurme kebab restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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.

As you approach the end of your journey in Turkey, take a moment for some retail therapy in Goreme’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the village’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Turkey, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Turkey with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Topdeck Cave, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!