9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Canakkale, Ayvalık, Izmir, and Çeşme
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Description
Explore the best of Turkey on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bursa, Osmangazi, Cumalıkızık, Alçıtepe, Seddülbahir, Eceabat, Ayvalık, Tiyelti, Konak, Izmir, Karabağlar, Çeşme, and Selçuk. 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 3 nights in Bursa, 1 night in Canakkale, 2 nights in Ayvalık, 1 night in Izmir, and 1 night in Çeşme. 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 Bursa, 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. Bursa Grand Mosque and Koza Han are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Canakkale Martyrs Monument, learn more about the unique Kemeraltı, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of İzmir Historical Elevator Building.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bursa, Osmangazi, Cumalıkızık, Alçıtepe, Seddülbahir, Eceabat, Ayvalık, Tiyelti, Konak, Izmir, Karabağlar, Çeşme, and Selçuk, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Bursa - Arrival day
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- Emir Sultan Mosque
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Bursa and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bursa 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.
Bursa 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 Emir Sultan Mosque, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bursa. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Bursa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Abidin Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, My Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cemil is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Bursa
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Karagoz Museum
- Koza Han
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Heykel
- Bursa City Museum
- Cumalikizik Village (UNESCO)
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Day 2 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Osmangazi. You have 1 night left in Bursa. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming town of Bursa. Your adventure starts at Karagoz Museum, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Koza Han. This captivating market is known for its heritage-rich appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bursa's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Bursa Grand Mosque. This symbolic mosque offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Heykel is also worth visiting, along with Bursa City Museum. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Cumalikizik Village (unesco). This up-and-coming historical landmark provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Visit Koza Hani in Bursa for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Koza Hani has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? TANDIR'AZ BURSA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Labelle Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bursa.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kule Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Bursa
- Çanakkale
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Drive 428 km, 5 hours 46 min
- Hilal-i Ahmer
- Canakkale Martyrs Monument
- First Martyrs' Memorial
- Sedd el Bahr Fortress
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Alçıtepe, Canakkale, and Seddülbahir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Canakkale, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Hilal-i Ahmer. This curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Canakkale Martyrs Monument located in Bursa for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of First Martyrs' Memorial. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the war memorial, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Sedd El Bahr Fortress. This castle has a historic appeal.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Canakkale, 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 Canakkale. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Akava Lounge Food & Drink, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hayal Kahvesi Çanakkale beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cevahir Ev Yemekleri. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Canakkale tonight.
Keep the evening going at Valhalla Metal Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gergedan, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Macleren's Doors, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Canakkale and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 4
- Çanakkale
- Ayvalık
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Drive 341 km, 5 hours 5 min
- Respect to Mehmetçik Monument
- Lone Pine
- Çanakkale Savaşları Gelibolu Tarihi Alan Başkanlığı
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Canakkale and Eceabat. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ayvalık. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Canakkale. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Respect To Mehmetçik Monument is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Canakkale. Next, head to Lone Pine Monument, an underrated war memorial, known for its picture-perfect features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park. This culturally significant battlefield offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ayvalık. Ayvalık 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 Ayvalık's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe's, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kök Tadım Mutfağı is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ayvalık Meyhanesi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ayvalık tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to White Knight Cafe Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bardak is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Çeşni Cunda provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!
Day 5
- Ayvalık
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Drive 48 km, 1 hour 47 min
- Ayvalık Islands Nature Park
- Cunda Merkez
- Aşıklar Tepesi
- Sarımsaklı Plajı
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Ayvalık for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today’s itinerary in Ayvalık covers several incredible sights, including a nature reserve, a public square, an observation deck, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Ayvalık Islands Nature Park. This underrated nature reserve is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Cunda Merkez, a must-see public square in the region.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Aşıklar Tepesi. This underrated observation deck offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sarımsaklı Plajı, where you can take in peaceful features.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Ayvalık's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, a top-rated dining destination in Ayvalık. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Orchis boutique hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sofia Ayvalık. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ayvalık this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kraft Ayvalık, known for its lively atmosphere. The Shelby Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Orman Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.
Day 6
- Ayvalık
- Izmir
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Drive 179 km, 2 hours 44 min
- Asclepieion of Pergamon
- Konak Square
- Konak Mosque
- Clock Tower of İzmir
- Kemeraltı
- Hisar Mosque
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On day 6 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 Tiyelti and Konak. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Ayvalık, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Asclepieion Of Pergamon, a locally appreciated archeological site in the village.
There are many interesting places to see in Ayvalık and when you are ready for more, go to Konak Mosque. This is one of the village’s most underrated spots. After exploring the mosque, visit the locally renowned Clock Tower Of İzmir. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the captivating Kemeraltı, a captivating market in the village.
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.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, a top-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Emniyet Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Catch after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stone Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Sky Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!
Day 7
- Izmir
- Çeşme
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Drive 96 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Ataturk Museum
- İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
- Alaçatı Çarşı
- Cesme Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Izmir, Karabağlar, and Çeşme. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Çeşme, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Izmir. Your adventure starts at Ataturk Museum, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This notable historical landmark is known for its photogenic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Izmir's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Alaçatı Çarşı. This romantic market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Çeşme Castle is also worth visiting.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Çeşme, 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 Çeşme's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Alaçatı Tatlıcısı İmren, a top-rated dining destination in Çeşme. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Antik Meyhane, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at ALA SÖĞÜŞ MEYHANE. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Çeşme this evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.
Day 8
- Çeşme
- Bursa
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Drive 582 km, 6 hours 8 min
- İsa Bey Mosque
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum
- The Temple of Artemis
- House of Virgin Mary
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Selçuk and Izmir, 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 Bursa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is İsa Bey Mosque. This increasingly popular mosque is a stunning place to see in Çeşme. Continue your discovery at Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a historic museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Çeşme, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to The Temple Of Artemis. This intriguing archeological site offers a stunning encounter with Çeşme. Next, make your way to House Of Virgin Mary to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Çeşme.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
As you explore more of Bursa, 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fayton Kafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Titiz Izgara? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bursa.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!
Day 9
- Bursa - Departure day
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- Green Tomb
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Day 9 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bursa before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Green Tomb. This frequently visited monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bursa.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Opus Live Bursa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pidecioglu offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bursa. 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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