One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hatay traveling west to Adana, Goreme, Aksaray, and Mersin
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Description
Explore the best of Turkey on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Antakya, Hatay, Hıdırbey, Bozlu, İskenderun, Adana, Kaymaklı, Nevşehir, Uçhisar, Goreme, Çavuşin, Derinkuyu, Ihlara, Aksaray, Yüreğir, Seyhan, and Mersin. 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 Hatay, 1 night in Adana, 2 nights in Goreme, 1 night in Aksaray, and 1 night in Mersin. 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 Hatay, 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. Uchisar Castle and Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Antakya, Hatay, Hıdırbey, Bozlu, İskenderun, Adana, Kaymaklı, Nevşehir, Uçhisar, Goreme, Çavuşin, Derinkuyu, Ihlara, Aksaray, Yüreğir, Seyhan, and Mersin, 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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Day 1 – Antakya and Hatay - arrival day
- Hatay - Arrival day
- More
Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Hatay and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Hatay for 1 night 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.
Hatay is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Hatay. 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 in Hatay. 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 Paşha Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Hatay. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2 – Hatay, Hıdırbey, Bozlu, Antakya, İskenderun, and Adana
- Hatay
- Hıdırbey
- Bozlu
- Antakya
- Adana
- More
Drive 258 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Moses Tree
- Harbiye Falls
- Hatay Archeology Museum
- Ataturk 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 4 vibrant destinations - Hıdırbey, Bozlu, Antakya, and İskenderun. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Adana. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Hıdırbey’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking in Hatay’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hıdırbey. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Hıdırbey, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Moses Tree. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.
Set your GPS to Bozlu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bozlu beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Harbiye Falls, a locally renowned waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Bozlu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Antakya. Your travel time is around 21 min.
Begin your journey at Hatay Archeology Museum and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Ataturk Park, another highlight in the village.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Adana. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Adana's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kazancılar Restoran Büyüksaat, a top-rated dining spot in Adana. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mert Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sirdanci Bedo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Adana.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!
Day 3 – Adana, Kaymaklı, Nevşehir, Uçhisar, and Goreme
- Adana
- Kaymaklı
- Nevşehir
- Uçhisar
- Göreme
- More
Drive 287 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Kaymaklı Underground City
- Pigeon Valley
- Love Valley
- Uchisar Castle
- Grand Mosque
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Kaymaklı, Nevşehir, and Uçhisar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Goreme, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a breathtaking, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a monumental, and a symbolic. Whether you decide to explore Adana on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Adana Grand Mosque is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic mosque before continuing your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kaymaklı. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Kaymaklı Underground City, a captivating cave system that everyone visiting Kaymaklı should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nevşehir. This car ride takes around 18 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Nevşehir Castle, an intriguing castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Love Valley, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings.
When you arrive in Uçhisar, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Pigeon Valley Hotel, a notable hiking area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Uchisar Castle and admire its symbolic features.
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 Goreme. Goreme 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Goreme. 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.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Red Red Wine House is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, M&m provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 4 – Goreme, Kayseri, and Nevşehir
- Göreme
- Kayseri
- Nevşehir
- More
Drive 204 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Erciyes Ski Resort
- Kayseri Castle
- Kizilcukur Valley
- Goreme Historical National Park
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Goreme, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nevşehir, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kayseri may take around 1 hour 28 min. Upon your arrival in Kayseri, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Spend your afternoon discovering Erciyes Ski Resort, a notable ski resort known for its gorgeous features.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nevşehir, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kayseri may take around 1 hour 28 min. Upon your arrival in Kayseri, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Kayseri Castle and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Cumhuriyet Meydanı, another highlight in the region.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kayseri, 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 Nevşehir to Kayseri may take around 1 hour 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kayseri, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Kizilcukur Valley(gun Batimi), a worthwhile canyon in Nevşehir. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Goreme Historical National Park. This interesting national park is a top recommendation in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Goreme and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Goreme, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at THE HANGOUT, a highly-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're eager to try something different, consider Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gurme kebab restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 5 – Goreme, Çavuşin, Nevşehir, Derinkuyu, and Ihlara
- Göreme
- Çavuşin
- Nevşehir
- Aksaray
- More
Drive 151 km, 2 hours 32 min
- Fairy Chimneys
- Zelve Open Air Museum
- More
On day 5 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, Goreme, Derinkuyu, and Ihlara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aksaray, where you will stay for 1 night.
Upon reaching Çavuşin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri, a notable rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking in Nevşehir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Derinkuyu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 45 min. When you arrive in Derinkuyu, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Zelve Open Air Museum and explore the breathtaking features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Aksaray, 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 Aksaray. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at Bal Bahçe, a popular restaurant in Aksaray. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aksaray at Bolu Et Mangal Aksaray, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Mustafa Chef Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Aksaray tonight.
Say good night to Aksaray and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 6 – Aksaray, Yüreğir, Adana, Seyhan, and Mersin
- Aksaray
- Yüreğir
- Adana
- Seyhan
- Mersin
- More
Drive 353 km, 4 hours 21 min
- Sabancı Merkez Mosque
- Central Park
- Ataturk Park
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Yüreğir, Adana, and Seyhan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Mersin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Aksaray, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Yüreğir. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Sabanci Central Mosque, an underrated mosque that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Seyhan Merkez Park, where you can soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Adana, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Adana, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make your way to Adana Cinema Museum, an increasingly popular museum that draws attention for its eye-catching features.
Set your GPS to Seyhan 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. Seyhan beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Ataturk Park, a captivating park known for its stunning features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Mersin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Mersin's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Cemil baba Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Mersin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Remzi Usta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kiremithane. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Mersin this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Small Lights Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.
Head back to your accommodation in Mersin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 7 – Mersin, Adana, Yüreğir, and Hatay
- Mersin
- Adana
- Yüreğir
- Hatay
- More
Drive 281 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Great Clock Tower
- Grand Mosque
- Ramazanoğlu Mansion
- Stone Bridge
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Adana and Yüreğir, 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 Hatay. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Adana promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Adana. This car ride takes around 1 hour 11 min.
Begin your journey at Tarihi Kazancilar Çarşısı and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Great Clock Tower, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Ramazanoğlu Mansion, a standout museum.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Yüreğir and set your GPS to Hatay. 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 2 hours 29 min. Upon reaching Hatay, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Spend your afternoon discovering Stone Bridge, an interesting monument known for its culturally significant features.
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 Hatay. Hatay 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 Hatay. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Salah Kebap, a top pick for dinner tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!
Day 8 – Hatay and Antakya - departure day
- Hatay - Departure day
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- Ataturk Park
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Day 8 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hatay before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in Turkey unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Hatay's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Turkey.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hatay.
You’ll then say farewell to Hatay. 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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