9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Gaziantep to Şanlıurfa, Hatay, and Mersin and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, and Eyyübiye. In the evening, you’ll end up in Şanlıurfa, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Gaziantep Castle. This locally renowned castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Göbekli Tepe, one of the most well-known places to see in Gaziantep. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Şanlıurfa. Şanlıurfa 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 Şanlıurfa, 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 delicious meal at TAŞSARAY RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining destination in Şanlıurfa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sembol Ocakbaşı Sarayönü Sıra Geceleri, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SERRHAN RESTAURANT&OCAKBAŞI. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Şanlıurfa this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 3 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Şanlıurfa, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Şanlıurfa for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Diyarbakir and Sur to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Şanlıurfa, including a castle, a historical landmark, and a monument. Start your day at Diyarbakir Castle. This UNESCO world heritage-listed castle is a beloved place to see in Şanlıurfa. Then, wander over to Hasan Pasha Inn. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Sülüklü Inn. This eye-catching historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Şanlıurfa offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Keçi Burcu is a worthwhile spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Şanlıurfa. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at BOOKS LEMON & CAFE, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try URFA CİĞER DÜNYASI Bekir Ustanın Yeri 04143132000? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Şanlıurfa İrfan Sofrası as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Şanlıurfa.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Şanlıurfa, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Şanlıurfa, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Kasımiye Madrasah, a locally appreciated monument in the village. Then, head to Zinciriye Medresesi and soak in the ambiance of this historic monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Şanlıurfa, and when you are ready for more, go to Mor Hananyo Monastery. This is one of the village’s most beloved picture-perfect spots of interest.

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

As you explore more of Şanlıurfa, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gulhan Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Şanlıurfa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Altın Lokantası, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tahir Baba Ocakbası. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Şanlıurfa this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Şehitkamil and Gaziantep. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hatay. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Şanlıurfa, including a museum, a botanical garden, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Zeugma Mosaics Museum. This locally renowned museum is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Botanical Garden, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Şanlıurfa on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Mothers Park, a locally appreciated park in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Erikche Piknik Forest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hatay. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Hatay. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Paşha Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Salah Kebap beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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.

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hatay, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready for an exciting day in Hatay. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a museum, a waterfall, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Soğukoluk Hatay. This is a frequently visited park you should not miss. Another must-see is Hatay Archeology Museum, an underrated museum in Hatay.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ataturk Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Harbiye Falls, another of the village’s captivating attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Moses Tree, a symbolic place of interest in the village.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hatay. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Toros Ocakbasi Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hatay.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Antakya, Akgedik, Tarsus, and Mersin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Mersin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Hatay. Begin your sightseeing with Habib-i Nejjar Mosque. This increasingly popular mosque is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Tarsus Hayvan Parkı, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hatay, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cleopatra Gate. This up-and-coming monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Atatürk Parkı, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mersin, 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 Mersin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Cemil baba Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Remzi Usta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kiremithane. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Mersin.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Small Lights Cafe Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Seyhan and Yüreğir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gaziantep, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Mersin is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views! Start at Ataturk Park, a captivating park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Seyhan Merkez Park, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Sabanci Central Mosque. This mosque is one of the town’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Mersin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Stone Bridge.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Gaziantep. Gaziantep 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 Gaziantep. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Gaziantep. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap, a popular restaurant in Gaziantep. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Kahveci Fayat Usta, a hidden gem nestled in Gaziantep. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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