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

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 Beyoğlu and Istanbul. With 1 night to stay in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Beyoğlu. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore İstiklal Avenue, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Enjoy all that Topkapı Palace has to offer. This is an impressive palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Hagia Sophia, a world-famous mosque in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Basilica Cistern.

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Beyoğlu is Galata Tower, a globally renowned observation deck that draws attention for its enchanting features.

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Reggae Br Shot & Food stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Just Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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 Cumalıkızık and Bursa. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

Savor the day by heading to Cumalikizik Village (unesco), an up-and-coming historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cumalıkızık is Emir Sultan Mosque, a popular mosque that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bursa. This car ride takes around 21 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Green Tomb, an often recommended monument in Bursa. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Koza Han. This notable market is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Bursa Grand Mosque is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most stunning mosque in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the worthwhile Heykel and discover what makes this public square unique.

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.

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

Dine in style at Kitap Evi Otel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tabipler Lokali boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Abidin Usta. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bursa.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. My Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cemil. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Izmir and Selçuk. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Izmir, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Izmir. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 5 min.

House Of Virgin Mary is a frequently visited church we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Selçuk, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Temple Of Artemis, a beloved archeological site in Selçuk. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This popular museum is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, a popular restaurant in Izmir. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Izmir at Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe, 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 Emniyet Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Izmir tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Catch, known for its lively atmosphere. Stone Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Sky Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pamukkale may take around 3 hours 14 min. Upon your arrival in Pamukkale, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Hierapolis Ancient Theater, an underrated archeological site known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Travertines Of Pamukkale, a top-rated geothermal field.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Pamukkale South Gate and uncover the details of this history-steeped archeological site.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pamukkale. Pamukkale 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Pamukkale, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Traverten Pide, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Seven Spices İndian restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pamukkale.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Antalya. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Antalya, where will spend 2 nights.

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

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Antalya Archaeology Museum and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Karaalioglu Park, another highlight in Antalya. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Yavuz Ozcan Park, a stunning park.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Antalya, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Marti Borek, a top-rated dining spot in Antalya. If you're in the mood for something new, try Antalya Balıkevi, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kebap 32 Salih. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antalya.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tipsy Old Town, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sheffield Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Simurg Cafe & Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Karatay, Selçuklu, and Konya. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Konya, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antalya and set your GPS to Karatay. 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 39 min. Upon reaching Karatay, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Mevlâna Museum, an astonishing 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. Next, head to Azizia Mosque and admire its culturally significant features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karatay and set your GPS to Selçuklu. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Selçuklu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Culture Park, a locally renowned park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Karatay Madrasah and explore the culturally significant features.

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

Konya 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 Konya.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kafem Gedavet, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Asmalı Konak Bilardo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Konya.

Keep the evening going at Grand Maksim Gazinosu, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cafe Extrablatt, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mr. Frog Pub Bistro, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Turkey.

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Turkey includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı, Uçhisar, and Çavuşin. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Goreme, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Derinkuyu, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Konya to Derinkuyu may take around 2 hours 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Derinkuyu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Derinkuyu Underground City, a locally renowned cave system in Derinkuyu. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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

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 Uçhisar. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pigeon Valley Hotel, a locally renowned hiking area known for its mesmerizing features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Goreme. Goreme 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 Goreme. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Orient, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kapadokya Kebapzade beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Göreme Kaya Otel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Goreme tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Red Red Wine House offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out M&m. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day 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 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 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 16 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 Imagination Valley, a worthwhile rock formation 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 Devrent Vadisi and admire its mesmerizing features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nevşehir. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Kizilcukur Valley(gun Batimi), an up-and-coming canyon 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 Goreme Historical National Park and admire its romantic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Uçhisar. This car ride takes around 16 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Uchisar Castle, a notable castle in Uçhisar. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at THE HANGOUT, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Turkish Ravioli Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Gurme kebab restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Goreme.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Ankara and Altındağ. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Ankara, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ankara. This car ride takes around 3 hours 8 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Anıtkabir, a world-famous monument that everyone visiting Ankara should see.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Haci Bayram Mosque and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, another highlight in Altındağ. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Ankara Castle, an instagrammable castle.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ankara, 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 Ankara's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Livorno Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Filikos Restoran offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ankara.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Muddy Waters, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Nil Rock Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Always Rock Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 12 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Safranbolu are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Safranbolu. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Safranbolu Hidirlik Hill. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Kaymakamlar Travel House. This underrated museum is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Tarihi Cinci Hamamı. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the spa.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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