13-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Aydın, Antalya, Konya, Goreme, Ankara, and Bolu

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 visitors.

Next, make your way to Spice Bazaar. This top attraction is a bazaar with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Grand Bazaar. This bazaar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Sultanahmet Square. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,594 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 95,369 travelers.

Your discoveries in Istanbul do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Istanbul on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Istanbul. 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Calipso Fish delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Sankai by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Arkestra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Karga Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Just Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Istanbul, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Basilica Cistern. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71,523 reviews.

Continue your journey at Hagia Sophia. This minor basilica is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 travelers from near and far.

Istanbul is also the home of Topkapı Palace. This palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,459 visitors. Each year, around 1,932,726 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

When you’ve had your share of Istanbul, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beyoğlu. Your travel time is around 17 min.

Drop by the renowned Galata Tower. This popular tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Resto Han? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

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

On day 4 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 Üsküdar, Fatih, and Beyoğlu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Üsküdar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Fatih. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Kick off the day at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,341 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Yıldız Park. Yıldız Park is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 reviews.

Dolmabahçe Palace is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,834 visitors.

Set your GPS to Fatih and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Fatih beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 59,048 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bursa. Bursa offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kitap Evi Otel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tabipler Lokali? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bursa.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at My Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cemil offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Denizli, Antalya, and Muratpaşa, 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 Antalya. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Denizli. This car ride takes around 2 hours 12 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Denizli Gondola. This much-appreciated gondola lift is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,448 reviews.

Antalya’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Denizli behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 48 min. Antalya welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Antalya Archaeology Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,053 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Antalya, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Antalya, 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 delicious dinner at Antalya Balıkevi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kebap 32 Salih offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ship Inn Marina Restaurant&Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Antalya.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Antalya, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Antalya, Sarıabalı, and Side. You still have 1 night left in Antalya.

Journey into the unknown at Duden Waterfalls, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,696 reviews.

After soaking in Antalya’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sarıabalı. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Sarıabalı, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Aspendos Theater. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,884 reviews.

Side’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sarıabalı behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Side welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Apollon Temple. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,779 visitors.

Side Ancient City is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,382 travelers.

Side is also the home of Flow Manavgat Waterfall. Around 37,986 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Kanatçı Ali Asker, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kazan Restoran beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Çam Pide. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Antalya tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Antalya and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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, Sille, Konya, and Selçuklu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Konya, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sille, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Antalya to Sille may take around 3 hours 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sille, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Sille Baraj Parkı. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,791 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Sille, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Konya. Your travel time is around 14 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden. This butterfly house is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,208 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kyoto Japanese Park. This park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 15,008 travelers from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Konya. Konya offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kafem Gedavet, a top-rated dining destination in Konya. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Asmalı Konak Bilardo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Konya this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Extrablatt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Mr. Frog Pub Bistro, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Karatay, Kaymaklı, and Uçhisar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Goreme, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Karatay and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Karatay beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mevlâna Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Karatay, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 63,829 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kaymaklı, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Karatay to Kaymaklı may take around 2 hours 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kaymaklı, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Kaymaklı Underground City, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This town municipality of turkey is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,377 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Goreme, 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 Goreme. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Red Red Wine House offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook M&m, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 10 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 Çavuşin, Nevşehir, Ankara, and Çankaya. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you arrive in Çavuşin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,979 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ankara. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Goreme Historical National Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,907 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Ankara, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ankara. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Filikos Restoran, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of MARTI RESTAURANT, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Muddy Waters after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Nil Rock Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Always Rock Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Ankara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bolu. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Ankara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 travelers.

Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations is another must-visit attraction. This renowned national museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 travelers and attracting 450,000 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Haci Bayram Mosque. This well-loved mosque boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 19,925 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bolu. Bolu offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bolu and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!