9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ayvalık to Bursa, Manisa, and Izmir

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Bursa, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Make sure to visit Sultanahmet, a popular neighborhood in Beyoğlu. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beyoğlu. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Galata Tower, a wondrous observation deck in Beyoğlu. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Üsküdar. This drive usually takes around 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dolmabahçe Palace, a widely recognized palace known for its enchanting features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Yıldız Park, a locally renowned park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, TANDIR'AZ BURSA beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Labelle Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kule Pub is another popular option for a drink or two.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Konak, 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 Izmir. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

After soaking in Manisa’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Konak. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 45 min. When you arrive in Konak, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your journey at Hisar Mosque and explore the photogenic features. Next, make your way to Kemeraltı, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the market, continue to Clock Tower Of İzmir, a picture-perfect monument. Nearby, you will also find Konak Mosque. This curiosity-inducing mosque is a top place to see in the area.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Izmir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a memorable dining experience in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Izmir, Adil Müftüoğlu shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious turkish cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

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.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Izmir, Karabağlar, and Konak. You still have 2 nights left in Izmir.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This frequently visited concert hall is a picture-perfect place to see in Izmir. Continue your discovery at Arkas Art Center, a visually striking art gallery with stories to tell.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Karabağlar, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Karabağlar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Güzelyali Park is an increasingly popular park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a majestic historical landmark that’s well-regarded 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 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum, a worthwhile museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Izmir.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Izmir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Puerta Alsancak is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cappadocia Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Chaos Cafe Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Tattoo Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Dinosaur Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Izmir for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Selçuk and Kuşadası to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Izmir, 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 1 hour. Upon your arrival in Selçuk, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at İsa Bey Mosque, a locally appreciated mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Basilica Of Saint John and admire its stunning features. When you’re ready, continue to Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a locally renowned museum beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kuşadası. This car ride takes around 22 min.

Make your way to El Heykeli, a locally appreciated monument that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Ladies Beach, an eye-catching beach that stands out in the town.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Izmir. 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 Mado, an iconic dining spot in Izmir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, a popular restaurant in Izmir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak, a hidden gem nestled in Izmir. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Eko Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Deep Rock Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Outro Momento Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!