13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara to Goreme, Antalya, Denizli, Izmir, and Bursa

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Ankara and Altındağ. With 1 night to stay in Ankara, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the wondrous Anıtkabir and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Beştepe Millet Camii, an inviting mosque that draws visitors from far and near.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Altındağ. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a popular museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Ankara Castle, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

Next, explore Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, yet another interesting place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Haci Bayram Mosque. This heritage-rich mosque is well worth the visit.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at MARTI RESTAURANT, 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 Golden Pavilion Museum, 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 Afganistan Sofrası, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, On An On Rock Cafe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, London Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Say good night to Ankara and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 5 places, which are Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı, Nevşehir, Çavuşin, and Goreme. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Goreme, where will spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Ankara’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Derinkuyu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 49 min. When you arrive in Derinkuyu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Derinkuyu Underground City is a popular cave system we recommend visiting today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kaymaklı Underground City. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the cave system before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Kaymaklı, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nevşehir. Your travel time is around 38 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Devrent Vadisi. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the rock formation before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Goreme. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the village.

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

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Red Red Wine House, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is M&m. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Goreme, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Goreme, there’s no need to rush. Experience Nevşehir and Uçhisar to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Goreme and set your GPS to Nevşehir. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 16 min. Upon reaching Nevşehir, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Goreme Historical National Park, a popular national park in Nevşehir. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Love Valley. This locally renowned rock formation is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Spend your afternoon discovering Pigeon Valley Hotel, a locally renowned hiking area known for its mesmerizing features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Uchisar Castle, a well-known castle.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at THE HANGOUT, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Turkish Ravioli Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Gurme kebab restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Goreme.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Antalya, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Experience Duden Waterfalls, a well-known waterfall in the city. Then, head to Antalya Archaeology Museum and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching museum.

Set your GPS to Konyaaltı and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Konyaaltı beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Konyaaltı is Konyaaltı Plajları, an intriguing beach that draws attention for its serene features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Aktur Park, a visually striking amusement park that stands out in the city.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Antalya's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at FATMA SULTAN RESTAURANT (TÜRK MUTFAĞI), a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ship Inn Marina Restaurant&Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Vanilla Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Antalya tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Dubh Linn Irish Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sponge Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mirror Gastro & Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Turkey includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Pamukkale. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Denizli, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Pamukkale and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pamukkale beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Pamukkale South Gate, a frequently visited archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Travertines Of Pamukkale, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-listed surroundings.

Next, explore Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, yet another locally appreciated place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This awe-inspiring archeological site is well worth the visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Denizli. Denizli offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Lavin Otel Denizli, a top-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ruma Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gökçen Gözleme Evi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Denizli this evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Geyre, Pamukkale, Denizli, and Goncalı. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Denizli, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Start your day at Kayalik Mosque. This heritage-rich mosque is a frequently visited place to see in Denizli.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Geyre may take around 1 hour 8 min. Upon your arrival in Geyre, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Geyre is Aphrodisias Ancient City Museum, an often recommended archeological site that draws attention for its historic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pamukkale. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

Müftü Ahmet Hulusi Efendi Camii is an up-and-coming mosque we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Denizli is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Denizli.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Akcesme Kokorec, a top-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ATA BREAD FACTORY, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at CAFE Pİ. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Denizli this evening.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Karabağlar, Izmir, and Konak are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Denizli and set your GPS to Karabağlar. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 16 min. Upon reaching Karabağlar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Karabağlar is İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a locally renowned historical landmark that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Set your GPS to Izmir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Izmir beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Agora Of Smyrna, a worthwhile archeological site known for its culturally significant features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Izmir. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Konak is Kemeraltı, an interesting market that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Clock Tower Of İzmir, an instagrammable monument that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Konak Square, a beloved square that offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Izmir. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Izmir is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Izmir.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Emniyet Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.

Continue your lively evening at Catch, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stone Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Sky Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Greet day 10 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Izmir, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Selçuk.

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

Virgin Mary Statue is an often recommended monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to The Temple Of Artemis, a picture-perfect archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a photogenic museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit İsa Bey Mosque, a monumental and truly unique mosque. End your sightseeing at Basilica Of Saint John, an often recommended church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the town.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Puerta Alsancak beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cappadocia Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Izmir tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bursa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bursa, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

Bursa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Izmir behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 21 min. Bursa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sultan's Mansion Museum. Then, head to Bursa City Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Heykel. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square. Next, take your journey to Bursa Grand Mosque, a notable mosque. Conclude your sightseeing at Koza Han, known for its photogenic features.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Abidin Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at My Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cemil offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Bursa and Osmangazi. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Green Tomb and allow yourself time to explore.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Emir Sultan Mosque, a well-known mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Davut Dede Camii and admire its photogenic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Osmangazi may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Osmangazi, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Bursa Archaeological Museum, an up-and-coming museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Bursa Atatürk Museum, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Ankara. Ankara offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a popular restaurant in Ankara. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ankara at Zaytung Zone, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bade'M Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ankara tonight.

Keep the evening going at Fat Boy Bar & Grill, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to 21 Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Soul Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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