9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bodrum to Pamukkale and Izmir

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Bodrum. You’ll stay in Bodrum for 1 night.

No visit to Bodrum is complete without Bodrum Castle. This well-known castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Bodrum Museum Of Underwater Archaeology, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bodrum, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Zeki Muren Arts Museum. This locally appreciated museum is a traveler-favorite.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Bodrum's bustling shopping hub, Oasis Shopping Center. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Oasis Shopping Center offers plenty of options, including a cinema, restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Marmara Bodrum, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Meat Burger & Steak House is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Dinç Pansiyon. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bodrum tonight.

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

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

After soaking in Bodrum’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pamukkale. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 20 min. When you arrive in Pamukkale, it's time to take a break from the road.

Pamukkale South Gate is a worthwhile archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour to Travertines Of Pamukkale, an UNESCO world heritage-listed geothermal field that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, an instagrammable museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Hierapolis Ancient Theater, a culturally significant and truly unique archeological site.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pamukkale. Pamukkale 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 Pamukkale's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Traverten Pide, a top-rated dining spot in Pamukkale. If you're in the mood for something new, try Seven Spices İndian restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pamukkale.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Marina Clup, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Turkey.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Konak and Izmir. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Izmir, where you'll spend 4 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Pamukkale, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Konak. Your travel time is around 2 hours 35 min.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Konak Mosque, a frequently visited mosque.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Clock Tower Of İzmir and uncover the details of this respected monument. Make sure to also explore Kemeraltı Mosque, an up-and-coming mosque. For your last stop, consider Kemeraltı, a photogenic market that many travelers find worth the detour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Izmir.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Agora Of Smyrna, an increasingly popular archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, a highly-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Emniyet Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Catch, known for its lively atmosphere. Stone Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Sky Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

On day 5 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Karabağlar, Konak, and Izmir. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Izmir, where you still have 3 nights left to stay.

A visit to Alsancak is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Whatever your travel style is, Ataturk Museum is an essential stop in Izmir. This underrated museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Karabağlar. This car ride takes around 8 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a well-known historical landmark in Karabağlar. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Izmir’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Konak behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Izmir welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum, an often recommended museum that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Izmir 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 Izmir.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Puerta Alsancak offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cappadocia Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Izmir.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

On day 6 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 still have 2 nights to spend in Izmir, there’s no need to rush. Experience Izmir and Selçuk to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Set your GPS to Selçuk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Selçuk beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at House Of Virgin Mary and explore the monumental features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Selçuk. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Temple Of Artemis, an increasingly popular archeological site in Selçuk. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This well-known museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Basilica Of Saint John is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most stunning church in the region.

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 a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mado, a popular restaurant in Izmir. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Izmir at Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Izmir tonight.

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.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Izmir, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bergama and Tiyelti.

After soaking in Izmir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bergama. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 27 min. When you arrive in Bergama, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Red Basilica. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Yeni Cami. This frequently visited mosque is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Bergama Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bergama, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tiyelti. This drive usually takes around 4 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Asclepieion Of Pergamon, an underrated archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at rePUBlic-izmir, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Gülgün Pide offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Moresi Girit Mutfağı is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Izmir.

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