5-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Izmir traveling east to Pamukkale

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Turkey. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Izmir and 1 night in Pamukkale. 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 Izmir, 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. Travertines Of Pamukkale and İzmir Historical Elevator Building are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ephesus Archaeological Museum, learn more about the unique Pamukkale South Gate, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of The Temple Of Artemis.

As you hit the open road and drive through Karabağlar, Izmir, Selçuk, Pamukkale, and Sirince, 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
İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
Ayasuluk CitadelSt Jean ChurchBasilica Of Saint Johnİsa Bey MosqueEphesus Archaeological MuseumThe Temple of Artemis
Pamukkale South GateTravertines of Pamukkale (thermal pools)Hierapolis Archaeology MuseumHierapolis Ancient Theatre
ŞirinceOdeonVirgin Mary StatueNatural Park of the Virgin MaryHouse of Virgin Mary
Alsancak

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Izmir - Arrival day
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  • İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Izmir and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Izmir for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Izmir is a beautiful city 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 İzmir Historical Elevator Building, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Izmir. 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 Izmir, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Emniyet Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Catch, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Stone Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Sky Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Izmir
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Drive 163 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • Ayasuluk Citadel
  • St Jean Church
  • Basilica Of Saint John
  • İsa Bey Mosque
  • Ephesus Archaeological Museum
  • The Temple of Artemis
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Izmir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Ayasuluk Citadel. This locally appreciated castle is a breathtaking place to see in Izmir. Continue your discovery at St. Jean Church, a historic church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Izmir, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Of Saint John. This worthwhile church offers a grand encounter with Izmir. Next, make your way to İsa Bey Mosque to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a notable museum that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at The Temple Of Artemis, a worthwhile archeological site in the town. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Izmir.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, a top-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Puerta Alsancak, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cappadocia Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Chaos Cafe Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Tattoo Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Izmir
  • Pamukkale
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Pamukkale South Gate
  • Travertines of Pamukkale (thermal pools)
  • Hierapolis Archaeology Museum
  • Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
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On day 3 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 Pamukkale. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pamukkale, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Izmir on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Pamukkale South Gate is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this peaceful archeological site before continuing your journey. Travertines Of Pamukkale is your next stop. This impressive geothermal field is one of the best-rated sights in Izmir.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This breathtaking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Hierapolis Ancient Theater.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Marina Clup offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

  • Pamukkale
  • Izmir
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Drive 308 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Şirince
  • Odeon
  • Virgin Mary Statue
  • Natural Park of the Virgin Mary
  • House of Virgin Mary
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sirince, Selçuk, and Izmir. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the beloved Şirince, a standout historical landmark in Pamukkale. Next, go to Odeon.

After visiting Şirince and Odeon, have a stroll along Pamukkale's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Virgin Mary Statue. This stunning monument offers a unique experience. Natural Park Of The Virgin Mary is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to House Of Virgin Mary, one of the most majestic places to visit in Pamukkale.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Izmir. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mado, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Eko Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Deep Rock Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Outro Momento Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Izmir - Departure day
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  • Alsancak
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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 Izmir before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Alsancak, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Izmir. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Make the most of your final day in Turkey by visiting Izmir’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Alsancak Kordon. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Turkey. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices. Savor your final moments in Turkey at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Gülgün Pide, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Izmir. 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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