One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul to Bursa, Pamukkale, Kuşadası, and Izmir

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Istanbul, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Check out the extraordinary palace, Topkapı Palace. Afterward, continue to Hagia Sophia, a mosque every traveler should visit. As you explore Istanbul’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Basilica Cistern. This impressive archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Sultanahmet Square, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a famous mosque in the city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Reggae Br Shot & Food, known for its inviting atmosphere. Just Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Emir Sultan Mosque and explore the breathtaking features.

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Green Tomb, a worthwhile monument 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 Koza Han and admire its heritage-rich features.

When you’re ready, continue to Bursa Grand Mosque, a popular mosque beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Bursa City Museum, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Heykel, an eye-catching place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at My Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cemil provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Pamukkale, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bursa to Pamukkale may take around 4 hours 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Hierapolis Ancient Theater is a worthwhile archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pamukkale Theatre, a picture-perfect archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, a historic museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Travertines Of Pamukkale, a history-steeped and truly unique geothermal field.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Izmir and Selçuk. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kuşadası, where you'll spend 1 night.

Izmir’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pamukkale behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 9 min. Izmir welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to House Of Virgin Mary, an often recommended church that everyone visiting Izmir should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Selçuk may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Selçuk, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Selçuk is Ayasuluk Citadel, a locally appreciated castle that draws attention for its breathtaking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Basilica Of Saint John, a symbolic church that stands out in the region.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to İsa Bey Mosque, a beloved mosque that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at The Temple Of Artemis, a picture-perfect archeological site and the perfect final attraction in Selçuk.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kuşadası, 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 Kuşadası. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Tuki Çarşaflı & Hamburger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Planet Yucca Live "entertainment & dining" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tranche. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kuşadası tonight.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Kuşadası and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey.

On day 6 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Karabağlar, Konak, and Izmir are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Kuşadası, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Karabağlar. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is İzmir Historical Elevator Building. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop.

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

Savor the day by heading to Konak Square, a curiosity-inducing square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Clock Tower Of İzmir, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

Next, explore Kemeraltı, yet another captivating place to see in the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Konak, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Izmir. This drive usually takes around 14 min.

Savor the day by heading to Ataturk Museum, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Emniyet Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Izmir tonight.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bergama and Tiyelti. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bergama may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Bergama, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Bergama Museum, a worthwhile 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 Yeni Cami and admire its heritage-rich features.

When you’re ready, continue to Red Basilica, a worthwhile archeological site beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Bergama Ulu Camii, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tiyelti. This drive usually takes around 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Asclepieion Of Pergamon, a frequently visited archeological site that everyone visiting Tiyelti should see.

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pierre Loti Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!