9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Gaziantep to Şanlıurfa, Hatay, and Mersin and surrounding area
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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 Gaziantep, 3 nights in Şanlıurfa, 2 nights in Hatay, and 1 night in Mersin. 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 Gaziantep, 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. Göbekli Tepe and Zeugma Mosaics Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Gaziantep Castle, learn more about the unique Harbiye Falls, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Stone Bridge.
As you hit the open road and drive through Şahinbey, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Eyyübiye, Diyarbakir, Sur, Mardin, Eskikale, Şehitkamil, Hatay, Müftüler, Antakya, Bozlu, Hıdırbey, Akgedik, Tarsus, Mersin, Seyhan, and Yüreğir, 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
- Gaziantep - Arrival day
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- Pisirici Mescidi Ve Kasteli
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Gaziantep and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Gaziantep for 1 night 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.
Gaziantep 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 Pisirici Mescidi Ve Kasteli, 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 Gaziantep. 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 Gaziantep, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Terra Pizza | Gazi Muhtar - Gaziantep, a top-rated dining destination in Gaziantep. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider YESEMEK GAZİANTEP MUTFAĞI, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Baklavaci Zeki İnal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gaziantep this evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Gaziantep
- Şanlıurfa
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Drive 220 km, 3 hours 28 min
- Panorama Museum
- Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo
- Göbekli Tepe
- Balıklıgöl
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, and Eyyübiye, 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 Şanlıurfa. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, a gorgeous zoo that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Göbekli Tepe, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Balıklıgöl.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Şanlıurfa. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Şanlıurfa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at TAŞSARAY RESTAURANT, an iconic dining spot in Şanlıurfa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sembol Ocakbaşı Sarayönü Sıra Geceleri, a popular restaurant in Şanlıurfa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of SERRHAN RESTAURANT&OCAKBAŞI, a hidden gem nestled in Şanlıurfa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Say good night to Şanlıurfa and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 3
- Şanlıurfa
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Drive 368 km, 5 hours 24 min
- Castle Diyarbakir
- Hasan Paşa Hanı
- Sülüklü Inn
- Keçi Burcu
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 2 nights left in Şanlıurfa, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Şanlıurfa, including a castle, a historical landmark, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Diyarbakir Castle. This curiosity-inducing castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Hasan Pasha Inn, which may be one of the most photogenic 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 Sülüklü Inn, a locally renowned historical landmark in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Keçi Burcu.
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 an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at BOOKS LEMON & CAFE, a top-rated dining destination in Şanlıurfa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider URFA CİĞER DÜNYASI Bekir Ustanın Yeri 04143132000, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Şanlıurfa İrfan Sofrası. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Şanlıurfa this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 4
- Şanlıurfa
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Drive 408 km, 5 hours 39 min
- Kasımiye Madrasah
- Zinciriye Medresesi
- Mor Hananyo Monastery
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Şanlıurfa, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Mardin and Eskikale. You still have 1 night left in Şanlıurfa.
Get ready for an exciting day in Şanlıurfa. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument and a monastery. Begin your adventure at Kasımiye Madrasah. This is a locally appreciated monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Zinciriye Medresesi, an up-and-coming monument in Şanlıurfa.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Mor Hananyo Monastery.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Şanlıurfa.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Şanlıurfa. 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.
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.
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 5
- Şanlıurfa
- Gaziantep
- Hatay
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Drive 352 km, 4 hours 50 min
- Zeugma Mosaics Museum
- Botanical Garden
- Mothers Park
- Erikche Piknik Forest
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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.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming town of Şanlıurfa. Your adventure starts at Zeugma Mosaics Museum, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Botanical Garden. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden is known for its heritage-rich appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Şanlıurfa's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Mothers Park. This visually striking park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Erikche Piknik Forest is also worth visiting.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hatay. Hatay 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 Hatay's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Paşha Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Salah Kebap beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 6
- Hatay
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Drive 183 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Sogukoluk Hatay
- Hatay Archeology Museum
- Ataturk Park
- Harbiye Falls
- Moses Tree
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Hatay, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s itinerary in Hatay covers several incredible sights, including a park, a museum, a waterfall, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Soğukoluk Hatay. This beloved park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Hatay Archeology Museum, a must-see museum in the village.
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 Ataturk Park. This worthwhile park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Harbiye Falls, where you can take in mesmerizing features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Moses Tree. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Hatay and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Hatay, 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 Toros Ocakbasi Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Hatay.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!
Day 7
- Hatay
- Mersin
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Drive 276 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Habib-i Nejjar Mosque
- Tarsus Hayvan Parkı
- Cleopatra Gate
- Atatürk Parkı
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On day 7 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 Antakya, Akgedik, Tarsus, and Mersin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mersin, where you will stay 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 curiosity-inducing 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.
As you explore more of Mersin, 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 delicious dinner at Cemil baba Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Remzi Usta offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kiremithane. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Mersin.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Small Lights Cafe Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!
Day 8
- Mersin
- Gaziantep
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Drive 314 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Ataturk Park
- Central Park
- Sabancı Merkez Mosque
- Stone Bridge
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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.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the popular Ataturk Park, an enchanting park in Mersin. Next, go to Seyhan Merkez Park.
After visiting Ataturk Park and Seyhan Merkez Park, have a stroll along Mersin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Sabanci Central Mosque. This picture-perfect mosque offers a unique experience. Stone Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Gaziantep. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Gaziantep. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kahveci Fayat Usta is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gaziantep.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!
Day 9
- Gaziantep - Departure day
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- 100. Yıl Atatürk Kültür Parkı
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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 Gaziantep 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, we recommend visiting 100. Yıl Atatürk Kültür Parkı, a picturesque park before you head out.
On your last day in Turkey, take time to indulge in shopping at Gaziantep’s popular marketplace, Gaziantep Mall Of. 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 Gaziantep.
You’ll then say farewell to Gaziantep. 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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