13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Gaziantep to Şanlıurfa, Mardin, Diyarbakir, Pınarbaşı, Malatya, Goreme, and Konya

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Gaziantep, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Gaziantep and Şehitkamil.

Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo leaves a lasting impression. This zoo is one of the most beloved places to visit in Gaziantep. Next, head to Mothers Park, a curiosity-inducing park, known for its scenic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Gaziantep Castle. This instagrammable castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Erikche Piknik Forest Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gaziantep, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Şehitkamil. This drive usually takes around 6 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Zeugma Mosaics Museum, an interesting museum 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 for the day, you’ll return to Gaziantep and your accommodation.

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

Savor the flavors at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kahveci Fayat Usta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Gaziantep tonight.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Şanlıurfa and Eyyübiye. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Şanlıurfa, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gaziantep and set your GPS to Şanlıurfa. 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 2 hours 5 min. Upon reaching Şanlıurfa, 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 Göbekli Tepe, a well-known archeological site in Şanlıurfa. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Eyyübiye’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Şanlıurfa behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Eyyübiye welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, an intriguing museum that everyone visiting Eyyübiye should see. Next, head to Şanlıurfa Castle. This picture-perfect castle is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Mevlid-i Halilulrahman Mağarası, a picturesque cave popular among locals as well as travelers. Mutfak Muzesi is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally appreciated museum before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Şanlıurfa, 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 Şanlıurfa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TAŞSARAY RESTAURANT, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sembol Ocakbaşı Sarayönü Sıra Geceleri offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss SERRHAN RESTAURANT&OCAKBAŞI. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Şanlıurfa.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Acar, Eskikale, and Mardin. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mardin, where will spend 1 night.

Acar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Şanlıurfa behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 35 min. Acar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Kasımiye Madrasah, an intriguing monument that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eskikale. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Mor Hananyo Monastery, a worthwhile monastery known for its stunning features.

Mardin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Eskikale behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Mardin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Mardin Museum, a worthwhile museum that everyone visiting Mardin should see. Next, head to Zinciriye Medresesi. This picture-perfect monument is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Mardin Evleri, a respected historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers. Cumhuriyet Meydanı is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this intriguing public square before you continue your journey.

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

Mardin 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 Mardin.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Sur and Diyarbakir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Diyarbakir, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Mardin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sur. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 26 min. When you arrive in Sur, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Keçi Burcu and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Hasan Pasha Inn, another highlight in Sur. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum, a photogenic museum.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Diyarbakir.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Diyarbakir Castle and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Mountain Gate, another highlight in Diyarbakir. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Diyarbakır Walls, a culturally significant historical landmark.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sultan Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Diyarbakir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Anemon Diyarbakır Otel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Nasır Usta Adana Kebapçısı. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Diyarbakir 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, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Malatya are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Malatya, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Malatya and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 54 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Malatya beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Turgut Özal Nature Park. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to #arslantepe Höyük Açik Hava Müzesİ. This intriguing archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Aslantepe Ruins. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site. Next, take your journey to Malatya Museum, an underrated museum.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Malatya. Malatya 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 Malatya. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Alcatraz Friendly, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kahtalı Köfte Kavurma is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Yeşilevler Izgara. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Malatya tonight.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Nevşehir and Uçhisar. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Goreme, where you'll spend 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Malatya, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nevşehir. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 50 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Devrent Vadisi, an often recommended rock formation that everyone visiting Nevşehir should see. Next, head to Imagination Valley. This romantic rock formation is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Uçhisar. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Uçhisar is Pigeon Valley Hotel, a notable hiking area that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Uchisar Castle, a grand castle that stands out in the region.

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.

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

Dine in style at Orient, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kapadokya Kebapzade boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Göreme Kaya Otel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Goreme.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Red Red Wine House, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Çavuşin, Nevşehir, and Urgup. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Goreme, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Goreme, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Çavuşin. This drive usually takes around 8 min.

Savor the day by heading to Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri, a notable rock formation that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Zelve Open Air Museum is a beloved museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Goreme Historical National Park, an UNESCO world heritage-listed national park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Urgup, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Urgup, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Urgup is Twin Fairy Chimneys, an underrated rock formation that draws attention for its romantic features.

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.

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.

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

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Meram and Karatay. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Gaziantep, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Meram.

Spend your afternoon discovering Konya Archeological Museum, a locally appreciated museum known for its photogenic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karatay and set your GPS to Gaziantep. 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 6 hours 13 min. Upon reaching Gaziantep, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kapu Mosque is an intriguing mosque we recommend visiting today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Azizia Mosque, a culturally significant mosque that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Mevlâna Museum, a culturally significant museum.

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

Gaziantep 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 Gaziantep.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Lotte Cafe Bistro, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dostlar Meyhanesi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kasap Halil Usta Fırınlı Et Lokantası is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gaziantep.

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