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 what to see in Erzurum. You have 1 night left in Erzurum. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

No visit to Erzurum is complete without Three Kümbets. This curiosity-inducing monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Double Minaret Madrasa, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Erzurum, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Erzurum Ulu Camii. This beloved mosque is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Erzurum Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Yakutiye Madrasa is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Atatürk House and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most often recommended attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Turkey. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Turkey includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Uzungöl, Çamoba, and Trabzon. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trabzon, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Erzurum, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Uzungöl. Your travel time is around 3 hours 27 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Uzungöl is Uzungöl, an interesting lake that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

Set your GPS to Çamoba and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Çamoba beckons with new experiences!

Trabzon Botanical Garden is an often recommended botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trabzon. This car ride takes around 9 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Iskenderpasa Mosque, an up-and-coming mosque in Trabzon. This increasingly popular public square is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Trabzon tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Big Yellow Taxi Benzin Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Barikat Cafe Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Şenköy, Şenyuva, and Ayder are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rize, where you will stay for 1 night.

Şenköy’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Trabzon behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 34 min. Şenköy welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Fırtına Deresi, an often recommended point of interest in Şenköy.

After soaking in Şenköy’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Şenyuva. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Şenyuva, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Şenyuva Bridge, an intriguing historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Şenyuva’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ayder. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Ayder, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Gelin Tulu Waterfall. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Ayder Plateau. This curiosity-inducing plateau is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rize. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at VELİOĞLU BÜFE, a popular restaurant in Rize. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rize at YAKAMOZ, 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 Haura Coffee Lounge. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rize tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Hollywood Cafe Ps 2, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Amasya has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Amasya.

Whether you decide to explore Amasya on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Whatever your travel style is, Amasya Clock Tower is an essential stop in Amasya. This increasingly popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Amasya Yalıboyu Houses, a visually striking historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Şehzadeler Müzesi, a worthwhile museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Hazeranlar Mansion. Not far away from the museum, you will find the visually striking Amasya Castle, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Pontic Kings Rock Tombs, another gem in Amasya with picture-perfect features to discover.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Turkey. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Tabure Bistro, an iconic dining spot in Amasya. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Yemen Coffee, a popular restaurant in Amasya. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Amaseia Mutfagi, a hidden gem nestled in Amasya. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Goreme, 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 Nevşehir, Urgup, and Uçhisar.

After soaking in Goreme’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nevşehir. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Nevşehir, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Nevşehir is Devrent Vadisi, an underrated rock formation that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features.

Set your GPS to Urgup and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Urgup beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Twin Fairy Chimneys, a frequently visited rock formation that everyone visiting Urgup should see.

After soaking in Goreme’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nevşehir. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Nevşehir, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Goreme Historical National Park, a locally renowned national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Goreme. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into M&m. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

On day 10 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 Ihlara, Derinkuyu, and Kaymaklı to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Ihlara is brimming with adventures.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ihlara may take around 1 hour 16 min. Upon your arrival in Ihlara, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ihlara Valley. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the canyon before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Derinkuyu may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Derinkuyu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

Kaymaklı’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Derinkuyu behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Kaymaklı welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Kaymaklı Underground City, a notable cave system that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Sedef, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Topdeck Cave is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Omurca Art Cave. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Goreme tonight.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Sivas. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Sivas, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Sivas, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Goreme to Sivas may take around 3 hours 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sivas, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Next, make your way to Gök Medrese, another highlight in Sivas. When you’re done exploring the mosque, continue to Ulu Mosque, a culturally significant mosque.

Nearby, you will also find Çifte Minareli Madrasa. This beloved historical landmark is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to İzzettin Keykavus Tomb, a heritage-rich monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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.

Sivas 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 Sivas.

Make sure to reserve a table at Guleryuz Sivas Koftecisi, an iconic dining spot in Sivas. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mücahit Etli Pide Ve Lahmacun Salonu, a popular restaurant in Sivas. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Aşçıbaşı, a hidden gem nestled in Sivas. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Atölye Nargile after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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