12-Day Turkey Road Trip from Izmir traveling east to Bursa, Istanbul, Bolu, Ankara, Konya, Antalya, and Denizli

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bursa, 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 Konak to Bursa may take around 3 hours 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bursa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Konak Square. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,737 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Konak Mosque. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,868 visitors, this mosque deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Clock Tower Of İzmir. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,286 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Kemeraltı. This bazaar and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,982 local and international travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bursa, 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 Bursa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like My Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cemil offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Bursa, and Üsküdar, 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 Istanbul. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Koza Han, a remarkable bazaar where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 30,790 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Bursa Grand Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 40,156 travelers.

After soaking in Bursa’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Üsküdar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 56 min. When you arrive in Üsküdar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Dolmabahçe Palace. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 77,834 visitors.

Büyük Mecidiye Mosque is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 travelers.

Üsküdar is also the home of Yıldız Park. Around 33,811 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Rounder's Irish Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Beyoğlu. You have 2 nights left in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Spice Bazaar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 visitors.

Süleymaniye Mosque is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 travelers.

Istanbul is also the home of Grand Bazaar. Around 150,014 people have rated this bazaar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Gülhane Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 61,194 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ulus 29. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Karga Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Just Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Istanbul by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Topkapı Palace. This extraordinary palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 97,459 visitors. Each year, around 1,932,726 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Hagia Sophia. This top attraction is a minor basilica with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Basilica Cistern. This palace is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 travelers.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Resto Han? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 7 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ankara. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Ulucanlar Prison Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Ankara Castle. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,722 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this castle every year.

Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 visitors. Up to 450,000 travelers come to Ankara every year to see Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, the perfect next stop is Haci Bayram Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,925 reviews.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Filikos Restoran, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider MARTI RESTAURANT. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ankara tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Muddy Waters is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Nil Rock Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Always Rock Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Çankaya, and Ankara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Konya, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Independence Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Next up is Anıtkabir. This mausoleum has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 120,860 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Çansera Kent Bahçesi. This park has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,648 reviews.

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

Journey into the unknown at Seğmenler Parkı, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,391 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Kuğulu Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,340 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Konya. 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 Kafem Gedavet, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Asmalı Konak Bilardo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Konya.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Extrablatt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Mr. Frog Pub Bistro is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Muratpaşa, Sarıabalı, and Antalya, 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 Denizli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Duden Waterfalls. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,696 visitors.

Muratpaşa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Antalya behind. This drive usually takes around 9 min. Muratpaşa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Yavuz Ozcan Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,665 visitors.

When you’re finished at Yavuz Ozcan Park, head to Karaalioglu Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,480 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Muratpaşa, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sarıabalı may take around 51 min. Upon your arrival in Sarıabalı, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Aspendos Theater. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,884 visitors.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Miske Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're eager to try something different, consider Arif Usta Pide, Çorba & Izgara Salonu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Holly Stone. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Denizli this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Woops Cafe&bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pub Locale Denizli Çamlık is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Belly is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 - Denizli, and Pamukkale. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Izmir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,695 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Denizli Gondola. This gondola lift has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,448 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Bağbaşı Plateau. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,057 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pamukkale. This car ride takes around 44 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Travertines Of Pamukkale is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,468 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Pamukkale South Gate. This parking has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,955 travelers.

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

As you explore more of Izmir, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Izmir by reserving a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of turkish, and traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Adil Müftüoğlu, renowned for its delectable turkish dishes. This distinguished Bib Gourmand-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Izmir.

Keep the evening going at Sky Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Chaos Cafe Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tattoo Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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