13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Konak, Pamukkale, Muratpaşa, Selçuklu, Goreme, and Altındağ

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night.

A top thing to do today is to explore Beyoğlu, a must-see neighborhood in Istanbul. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Sultanahmet, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Topkapı Palace makes a great addition to your morning plans. This spectacular palace is an UNESCO world heritage-designated place to see in Istanbul. Continue your discovery at Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking mosque with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Istanbul, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This famous mosque offers a breathtaking encounter with Istanbul. Next, make your way to Sultanahmet Square to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Basilica Cistern, an impressive archeological site that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Istanbul.

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

Savor the flavors at Mitani Cafe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Divella Bistro Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Istanbul tonight.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Cumalıkızık and Bursa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bursa, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Cumalikizik Village (unesco), an increasingly popular historical landmark 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’ve had your share of Cumalıkızık, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bursa. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Green Tomb is an underrated monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Koza Han, an instagrammable market that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Bursa Grand Mosque, a stunning mosque. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Heykel, a photogenic and truly unique public square.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Abidin Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to My Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cemil is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Izmir and Selçuk are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Konak, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Izmir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 4 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Izmir beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at House Of Virgin Mary and explore the stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Izmir, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Selçuk. This drive usually takes around 15 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Temple Of Artemis, a beloved archeological site in Selçuk. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This interesting museum 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 Konak. Konak 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 Konak's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bizim Lokanta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try SELİM DE ÇEŞME KUMRU TOST SANDVİÇ IZGARA KÖFTE KONAK ÇEŞME KUMRU? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Yolo Art&Lounge as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Konak.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bonema Cafe & Bar, where the evening is just getting started.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 1 place, which are Pamukkale. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pamukkale, where will spend 1 night.

After soaking in Konak’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pamukkale. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 41 min. When you arrive in Pamukkale, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Hierapolis Ancient Theater, a worthwhile archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Travertines Of Pamukkale, yet another famous place to see in the area. After the geothermal field, make time to go to Pamukkale Turkey. This UNESCO world heritage-listed geothermal field is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Natural Park, an up-and-coming park you won’t want to miss.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Traverten Pide, a top-rated dining destination in Pamukkale. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Seven Spices İndian restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pamukkale this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Marina Clup, 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 Turkey.

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Konyaaltı and Antalya. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muratpaşa, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Pamukkale, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Konyaaltı. Your travel time is around 3 hours 4 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Konyaaltı Plajları, a worthwhile beach known for its stunning features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Konyaaltı and set your GPS to Antalya. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Antalya, 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 Antalya Archaeology Museum, a popular 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 Duden Waterfalls and admire its mesmerizing features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Muratpaşa, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Muratpaşa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gaziantep Ünlüoğlu Baklavaları, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pidex offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Lara Balık is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Muratpaşa.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Çöplük Cafe & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

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

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Karatay.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Karatay, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Muratpaşa to Karatay may take around 3 hours 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Karatay, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Karatay is Mevlâna Museum, a famous museum that draws attention for its photogenic features.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Shams Of Tabriz Mosque And Tomb and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Karatay Madrasah, another highlight in Konya.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Culture Park and explore the picture-perfect features.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Taka Balık (Fish), an iconic dining spot in Selçuklu. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cemo Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Selçuklu. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hacı Şükrü 1907 Kebab Saloons, a hidden gem nestled in Selçuklu. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Uçhisar and Nevşehir. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Goreme, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Selçuklu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Uçhisar. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 54 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Uchisar Castle. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nevşehir. This car ride takes around 17 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kizilcukur Valley(gun Batimi). Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the canyon before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Goreme Historical National Park. This well-known national park is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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.

Goreme 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 Goreme.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Red Red Wine House is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. M&m is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı.

When you’ve had your share of Goreme, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Derinkuyu. Your travel time is around 38 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Derinkuyu Underground City and explore the respected features. Next, make your way to Üzümlü Kilise, another highlight in Derinkuyu.

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.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Kaymaklı Underground City, a popular cave system 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 Goreme and your accommodation.

Goreme 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 Goreme.

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.

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.

On day 11 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Ankara and Altındağ are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Altındağ, 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 Ankara. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Anıtkabir is an iconic monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Altındağ’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ankara behind. This drive usually takes around 10 min. Altındağ welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Haci Bayram Mosque, an interesting mosque that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Safranhan, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bogazici Lokantasi offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Safranbolu. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Safranbolu may take around 2 hours 34 min. Upon your arrival in Safranbolu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Safranbolu Hidirlik Hill, a curiosity-inducing observation deck that everyone visiting Safranbolu should see. Next, head to Tarihi Cinci Hamamı. This romantic spa is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Safranbolu Evleri, a history-steeped historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul 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 Istanbul's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Pierre Loti Hotel, 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 By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!