13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Erzurum to Trabzon, Rize, Amasya, Goreme, and Sivas

Day 2 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Erzurum. You have 1 night left in Erzurum. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Erzurum on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Three Kümbets is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich monument before continuing your journey. Double Minaret Madrasa is your next stop. This intriguing monument is one of the best-rated sights in Erzurum.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Erzurum Ulu Camii. This culturally significant mosque is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Erzurum Castle and Yakutiye Madrasa. If time allows, end your day with Atatürk House, an instagrammable museum that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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.

As you explore more of Erzurum, 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 Old Erzurum Houses, a top-rated dining destination in Erzurum. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dicleli Pide, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Time Terminal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Erzurum this evening.

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.

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

Start your day with a visit to Uzungöl. This interesting lake is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Trabzon Botanical Garden, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Erzurum 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 Iskenderpasa Mosque, a worthwhile mosque in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Meydan.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Trabzon. Trabzon 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 Trabzon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Akçaabatlılar Köfte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vira Patisserie & Bistro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bordo Mavi Balık-Erşan Yılmaz. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Trabzon tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Big Yellow Taxi Benzin Cafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Barikat Cafe Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 3 vibrant destinations - Şenköy, Şenyuva, and Ayder. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rize. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Trabzon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Fırtına Deresi. Then, enjoy Şenyuva Bridge, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Gelin Tulu Waterfall, one of the village’s most often recommended attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ayder Plateau. This eye-catching plateau is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at VELİOĞLU BÜFE, a highly-rated dining destination in Rize. If you're eager to try something different, consider YAKAMOZ, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Haura Coffee Lounge. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rize this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Hollywood Cafe Ps 2, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Amasya. You’ll stay in Amasya for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today's adventure in Amasya promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Amasya Clock Tower. This culturally significant monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Amasya Yalıboyu Houses, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Şehzadeler Müzesi, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Hazeranlar Mansion. This history-steeped museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Pontic Kings Rock Tombs, an up-and-coming archeological site, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Amasya Castle before you head back to your hotel.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Tabure Bistro, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Yemen Coffee is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Amaseia Mutfagi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amasya tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 9 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 will return to Goreme for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Nevşehir, Urgup, and Uçhisar to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Goreme, including a rock formation, a national park, a hiking area, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Devrent Vadisi. This worthwhile rock formation is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Twin Fairy Chimneys located in Goreme for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Goreme Historical National Park. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the national park, continue your tour of the region with a visit to Pigeon Valley Hotel. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this hiking area. Next up is Uchisar Castle, a highly recommended castle.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at THE HANGOUT, a top-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gurme kebab restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting M&m, a prime location for a drink.

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 Goreme, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start by visiting Ihlara Valley, a prime spot to begin your journey. This serene canyon is sure to impress. Next on your list is Derinkuyu Underground City, another must-visit landmark and well-known cave system renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Goreme by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kaymaklı Underground City. This heritage-rich cave system is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Goreme experience.

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

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 village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Sedef, a top-rated dining spot in Goreme. If you're in the mood for something new, try Topdeck Cave, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Omurca Art Cave. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Goreme.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sivas. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sivas, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Goreme covers several incredible sights, including a performing arts theater, a mosque, a historical landmark, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Sivas State Theater. This worthwhile performing arts theater is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Gök Medrese, a must-see mosque in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Ulu Mosque. This increasingly popular mosque offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Çifte Minareli Madrasa, where you can take in culturally significant features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to İzzettin Keykavus Tomb and Sifaiye Madrasah. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Guleryuz Sivas Koftecisi, a top-rated dining destination in Sivas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mücahit Etli Pide Ve Lahmacun Salonu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aşçıbaşı. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sivas this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Atölye Nargile, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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.