5-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ayvalık to Bursa and Manisa and surrounding area

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Photo of Ayvalik Cunda Island Patrica beach aerial shot with drone.
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Explore the best of Turkey on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Ayvalık, Akçay, Balıkesir, Bursa, Manisa, Izmir, Foça, and Çandarlı. This road trip itinerary in Turkey seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Ayvalık, 1 night in Bursa, and 1 night in Manisa. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Ayvalık, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Bursa Grand Mosque and Koza Han are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Old Foca Coast, learn more about the unique İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of İzmir Wildlife Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Ayvalık, Akçay, Balıkesir, Bursa, Manisa, Izmir, Foça, and Çandarlı, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.

Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Sarımsaklı Plajı
Cunda MerkezOren BeachAkçay kordonAtatürk Parkı, BalıkesirDeğirmen Boğazı Natural Park
HeykelKoza HanGrand Mosque of BursaHan Brassİnkaya Historical Plane Tree
Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terasıİzmir Wildlife ParkOld Foca CoastÇandarlı Castle
Aşıklar Tepesi

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Ayvalık - Arrival day
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  • Sarımsaklı Plajı
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Say hello to Ayvalık! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Ayvalık for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Ayvalık is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sarımsaklı Plajı, or just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Ayvalık. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe's, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kök Tadım Mutfağı offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ayvalık Meyhanesi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ayvalık.

Keep the evening going at White Knight Cafe Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bardak, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Çeşni Cunda, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Turkey!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Ayvalık
  • Bursa
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Drive 309 km, 4 hours 29 min

  • Cunda Merkez
  • Oren Beach
  • Akçay kordon
  • Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir
  • Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Ayvalık, Akçay, and Balıkesir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Ayvalık covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a beach, a boardwalk, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Cunda Merkez. This frequently visited public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Oren Beach, a must-see beach in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Akçay Çıkışlı Turlar. This up-and-coming boardwalk offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir, where you can take in enchanting features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bursa. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bursa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kitap Evi Otel, an iconic dining spot in Bursa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tabipler Lokali, a popular restaurant in Bursa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Abidin Usta, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. 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 My Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cemil also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bursa
  • Manisa
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Drive 301 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Heykel
  • Koza Han
  • Grand Mosque of Bursa
  • Han Brass
  • İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
  • More

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

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Bursa. Begin your sightseeing with Heykel. This intriguing public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Koza Han, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bursa, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bursa Grand Mosque. This well-known mosque is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Han Brass, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. İnkaya Historical Plane Tree is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Manisa, 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 in Manisa. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Litany, a top-rated dining destination in Manisa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Efendi Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dergah Cafe&Bar Ocakbaşı Restoran. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manisa 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 in Turkey.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Manisa
  • Ayvalık
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Drive 254 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası
  • İzmir Wildlife Park
  • Old Foca Coast
  • Çandarlı Castle
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Izmir, Foça, and Çandarlı, 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 Ayvalık. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Manisa allows for both. Start by heading to Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası. This frequently visited observation deck provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover İzmir Wildlife Park, a picturesque zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Old Foca Coast, a captivating beach. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Çandarlı Castle.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ayvalık. Ayvalık 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 Ayvalık's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Orchis boutique hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sofia Ayvalık is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ayvalık.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kraft Ayvalık, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Shelby Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Orman Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Ayvalık - Departure day
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  • Aşıklar Tepesi
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Day 5 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ayvalık before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Aşıklar Tepesi. This worthwhile observation deck is a popular place to see in the town.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Ayvalık.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at CUNDA OTEL, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Macaron Cafe & Bistro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss O' Meyhane (By Kayra ).

You’ll then say farewell to Ayvalık. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!

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