13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara traveling east to Aksaray, Mersin, Gaziantep, Hatay, Adana, and Kayseri

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

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Ankara. Begin your sightseeing with Seğmenler Parkı. This captivating park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Anıtkabir, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Ankara, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Çansera Kent Bahçesi, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Metu Forest is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aksaray. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Aksaray, 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 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.

Say good night to Aksaray 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 2 vibrant destinations - Seyhan and Yüreğir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mersin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Ataturk Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Seyhan Merkez Park, another must-visit landmark and popular park renowned for its serene features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Aksaray by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Stone Bridge. This historic monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Aksaray experience. We also recommend visiting Sabanci Central Mosque, a locally appreciated mosque.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cemil baba Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Mersin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Remzi Usta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kiremithane. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Mersin this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Small Lights Cafe Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Adana. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gaziantep, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Today’s agenda in Mersin includes a market, a monument, a mosque, a museum and much more! Tarihi Kazancilar Çarşısı is must-visit market and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Great Clock Tower, an intriguing monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Adana Grand Mosque, a breathtaking mosque, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Terra Pizza | Gazi Muhtar - Gaziantep, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, YESEMEK GAZİANTEP MUTFAĞI offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Baklavaci Zeki İnal is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gaziantep.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Gaziantep, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Today’s agenda in Gaziantep includes a castle, a museum, and a mosque. Rumkale is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Zeugma Mosaics Museum, a captivating museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ulu Cami, a photogenic mosque, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, 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 Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap, 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 Kahveci Fayat Usta, 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!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Gaziantep. You’ll stay in Gaziantep for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start by visiting Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking zoo is sure to impress.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Gaziantep by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Mothers Park. This visually striking park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Gaziantep experience. We also recommend visiting Botanical Garden, a frequently visited botanical garden.

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

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 The Lotte Cafe Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Gaziantep. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dostlar Meyhanesi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kasap Halil Usta Fırınlı Et Lokantası. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gaziantep this evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

On day 7 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Gaziantep, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Gaziantep for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Belkıs and Gaziantep to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Zeugma Antik Kenti. This up-and-coming archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is 14 Martyrs Memorial, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Gaziantep Archeology Museum, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Gaziantep. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Then, head to Erikche Piknik Forest, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mutfak Sanatları Merkezi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Treff Bistro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tahmis Kahvesi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gaziantep tonight.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Gaziantep and Şahinbey, 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 Hatay. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Gaziantep, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Ömeriye Camii, an underrated mosque in the city. Then, head to Gaziantep Castle and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Gaziantep, and when you are ready for more, go to Karagöz Cami. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the mosque, visit the beloved Pisirici Mescidi Ve Kasteli. Not far away, you'll also find Dülükbaba Picnic Area. This park is a visually striking highlight in Gaziantep.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hatay. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Paşha Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Hatay. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Salah Kebap, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hatay, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Kapısuyu, Hıdırbey, Bozlu, and Antakya. You still have 1 night left in Hatay.

Start by visiting Vespasian Titus Tunnel, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Moses Tree, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile monument renowned for its symbolic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Hatay by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Harbiye Falls. This eye-catching waterfall is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Hatay experience. We also recommend visiting Ataturk Park, a curiosity-inducing park. Nearby, you'll also find Hatay Archeology Museum, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Toros Ocakbasi Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Hatay.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Antakya and İskenderun. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Adana, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Hatay, including a mosque, a church, a military museum, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Habib-i Nejjar Mosque. This beloved mosque is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Church Of St Pierre, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Hatay on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to İskenderun Naval Museum, a locally appreciated military museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Atatürk Aniti.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Kazancılar Restoran Büyüksaat, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mert Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sirdanci Bedo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Adana tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Adana and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 Kaymaklı, Uçhisar, Çavuşin, and Nevşehir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kayseri, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Adana allows for both. Start by heading to Kaymaklı Underground City. This notable cave system provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Uchisar Castle, an enchanting castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri, an interesting rock formation. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Zelve Open Air Museum.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Hasan Usta Et Lokantası, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Taşmekan Et Lokantası beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Elvan Lokantası. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kayseri tonight.

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

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 vibrant destinations - Kırşehir and Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Kayseri’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cacabey Medresesi. This heritage-rich historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Haci Bayram Mosque, a well-known mosque.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ankara. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Golden Pavilion Museum, 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting On An On Rock Cafe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, London Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.