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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, and Eyyübiye. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Şanlıurfa, where you'll spend 3 nights.

One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Gaziantep Castle. This historic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo and learn what makes this gorgeous zoo unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Şanlıurfa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Gaziantep behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 9 min. Şanlıurfa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Göbekli Tepe is a captivating archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its detailed features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Eyyübiye’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Şanlıurfa behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Eyyübiye welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Balıklıgöl is an interesting lake we recommend visiting today.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Şanlıurfa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at TAŞSARAY RESTAURANT, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sembol Ocakbaşı Sarayönü Sıra Geceleri boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out SERRHAN RESTAURANT&OCAKBAŞI. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Şanlıurfa.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Diyarbakir and Sur. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Şanlıurfa, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Diyarbakir.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Diyarbakir, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Şanlıurfa to Diyarbakir may take around 2 hours 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Diyarbakir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Diyarbakir Castle, a beloved castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Sur’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Şanlıurfa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 32 min. When you arrive in Şanlıurfa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sur is Hasan Pasha Inn, a notable historical landmark that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Sülüklü Inn, an instagrammable historical landmark that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Keçi Burcu, a beloved monument that offers a unique experience.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Şanlıurfa's best restaurants.

Dine in style at BOOKS LEMON & CAFE, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, URFA CİĞER DÜNYASI Bekir Ustanın Yeri 04143132000 boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Şanlıurfa İrfan Sofrası. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Şanlıurfa.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Şanlıurfa, 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 Acar, Mardin, and Eskikale.

Acar is brimming with adventures.

Set your GPS to Acar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Acar beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kasımiye Madrasah, an up-and-coming monument in Acar. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Mardin, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Acar to Mardin may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Mardin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Zinciriye Medresesi is a locally appreciated monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Mardin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Eskikale. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Eskikale, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Mor Hananyo Monastery and explore the stunning features.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Şanlıurfa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gulhan Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Şanlıurfa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Altın Lokantası, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tahir Baba Ocakbası. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Şanlıurfa this evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Şehitkamil and Gaziantep. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hatay, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Şanlıurfa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Şehitkamil. Your travel time is around 1 hour 42 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Zeugma Mosaics Museum, a well-known museum that everyone visiting Şehitkamil should see.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gaziantep. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Botanical Garden and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Mothers Park, another highlight in Gaziantep. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Erikche Piknik Forest, a scenic park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hatay. Check in and relax 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 Hatay. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Paşha Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Salah Kebap offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Müftüler, Antakya, Bozlu, and Hıdırbey. With 1 night to stay in Hatay, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Müftüler. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Soğukoluk Hatay and explore the stunning features.

Antakya’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Müftüler behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min. Antakya welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Hatay Archeology Museum, an underrated museum in Antakya. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Ataturk Park. This often recommended park is a top recommendation in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bozlu. This car ride takes around 17 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Harbiye Falls, a captivating waterfall 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 the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hatay.

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 Hatay, 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.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Antakya, Akgedik, Tarsus, and Mersin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Mersin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antakya and set your GPS to Akgedik. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 3 min. Upon reaching Akgedik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Habib-i Nejjar Mosque, a beloved mosque that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Akgedik may take around 3 hours 3 min. Upon your arrival in Akgedik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tarsus Hayvan Parkı. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Tarsus. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Savor the day by heading to Cleopatra Gate, a beloved monument that draws visitors from near and far.

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 a true cultural experience.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Small Lights Cafe Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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.

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 2 places, which are Seyhan and Yüreğir. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gaziantep, where will spend 1 night.

Seyhan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Mersin behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. Seyhan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ataturk Park and explore the scenic features.

After soaking in Seyhan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Yüreğir. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 4 min. When you arrive in Yüreğir, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Seyhan Merkez Park, a captivating park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Sabanci Central Mosque, where you can soak in the stunning surroundings.

Next, explore Stone Bridge, yet another interesting place to see in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Gaziantep's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kahveci Fayat Usta. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gaziantep tonight.

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