9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa traveling south to Manisa, Denizli, Izmir, and Ayvalık
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Turkey. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Bursa, 1 night in Manisa, 1 night in Denizli, 1 night in Izmir, and 3 nights in Ayvalık. 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. Travertines Of Pamukkale and Bursa Grand Mosque are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Koza Han, 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, Manisa, Pamukkale, Goncalı, Denizli, Kuşadası, Selçuk, Izmir, Konak, Karabağlar, Foça, Ayvalık, Tahtakuşlar, Çamlıbel, Beyoba, Kocaseyit, Balıkesir, and Karesi, 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
- Bursa - Arrival day
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- Heykel
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Welcome to Bursa, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bursa's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Heykel, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bursa. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bursa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
Keep the evening going at My Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cemil, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Bursa
- Manisa
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Drive 303 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Koza Han
- Han Brass
- İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
- Abdal Bridge
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Manisa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bursa. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Bursa Grand Mosque is the perfect place to start. This mosque is one of the most captivating places to visit in Bursa. Next, head to Koza Han, a well-known market, known for its photogenic features.
Nearby, you'll also find İnkaya Historical Plane Tree and Abdal Bridge. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Manisa, 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 Manisa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Litany, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Efendi Restoran boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Dergah Cafe&Bar Ocakbaşı Restoran. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Manisa.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.
Day 3
- Manisa
- Denizli
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Drive 242 km, 4 hours 12 min
- Travertines of Pamukkale (thermal pools)
- Pamukkale South Gate
- The ancient city of Laodicea
- Denizli Gondola
- Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park
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On day 3 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 Pamukkale, Goncalı, and Denizli. In the evening, you’ll end up in Denizli, where you will stay for 1 night.
Manisa is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a geothermal field, an archeological site, a tramway, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the spectacular Travertines Of Pamukkale and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Pamukkale South Gate, an enchanting archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Laodicea Ancient City, one of the village’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Denizli Gondola. When you're finished at the tramway, Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park awaits your visit. This park is an idyllic highlight on today's itinerary.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Denizli. Denizli offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Denizli. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Lavin Otel Denizli, a highly-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ruma Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gökçen Gözleme Evi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Denizli this evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Turkey.
Day 4
- Denizli
- Izmir
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Drive 307 km, 4 hours 37 min
- Ladies Beach
- El Heykeli
- The Temple of Artemis
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Kuşadası and Selçuk, 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 1 night.
Today's adventure in Denizli promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ladies Beach. This idyllic beach is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy El Heykeli, another noteworthy attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to The Temple Of Artemis, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its symbolic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This respected museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Izmir's best restaurants.
Discover the culinary delights of Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of turkish and traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Adil Müftüoğlu, renowned for its delicious turkish dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Catch, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stone Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Sky Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Izmir and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 5
- Izmir
- Ayvalık
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Drive 222 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Clock Tower of İzmir
- Kemeraltı
- İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
- Old Foca Coast
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Konak, Karabağlar, and Foça. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ayvalık, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the interesting Clock Tower Of İzmir, a picture-perfect monument in Izmir. Next, go to Kemeraltı.
After visiting Clock Tower Of İzmir and Kemeraltı, have a stroll along Izmir's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This history-steeped historical landmark offers a unique experience. Old Foca Coast is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Ayvalık, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Ayvalık, 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 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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at White Knight Cafe Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bardak, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Çeşni Cunda provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 6
- Ayvalık
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Drive 156 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Mount Ida National Park
- Sarımsaklı Plajı
- Clock Mosque
- Aşıklar Tepesi
- Cunda Merkez
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Ayvalık for your remaining 2 nights in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Ayvalık.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Ayvalık, including a national park, a beach, a mosque, an observation deck, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Mount Ida National Park. This underrated national park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Sarımsaklı Plajı located in Ayvalık for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Clock Mosque. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the mosque, continue your tour of the region with a visit to Aşıklar Tepesi. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this observation deck. Next up is Cunda Merkez, a highly recommended public square.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Ayvalık and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Ayvalık's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Orchis boutique hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sofia Ayvalık is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ayvalık.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Kraft Ayvalık, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Shelby Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Orman Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Turkey.
Day 7
- Ayvalık
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Drive 163 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Tahtakuşlar Etnografya Galerisi
- Güre Sahili
- Kazdagi Museum
- Sütüven Şelalesi
- Kocaseyit Memorial
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Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Ayvalık, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Ayvalık. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Tahtakuşlar Etnografya Galerisi is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Ayvalık. Next, head to Güre Sahili, a curiosity-inducing beach, known for its serene 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 Kazdagi Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Sütüven Şelalesi and Kocaseyit Memorial. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Ayvalık.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Ayvalık. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at CUNDA OTEL, a top-rated dining destination in Ayvalık. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Macaron Cafe & Bistro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at O' Meyhane (By Kayra ). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ayvalık this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 8
- Ayvalık
- Bursa
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Oren Beach
- Zagnos Pasha Mosque
- Şehitler Parkı
- Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir
- Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Ayvalık, Balıkesir, and Karesi. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Ayvalık’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Oren Beach. This romantic beach is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Zagnos Pasha Mosque, a must-visit mosque in the region.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Martyrs Park, a beloved park. For a change of scene, check out Atatürk Parkı, Balıkesir, known for its awe-inspiring features. We also recommend visiting Değirmen Boğazı Natural Park. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the region to the fullest.
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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, 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 TANDIR'AZ BURSA, 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 Labelle Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kule Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Bursa - Departure day
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- Mehmet Abdal 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 Mehmet Abdal Tomb. This locally appreciated monument is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Turkey, take time to indulge in shopping at Bursa’s popular marketplace, Koza Hani. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bursa.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Titiz Izgara, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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