9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hatay to Adana, Goreme, Aksaray, and Mersin

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 Kaymaklı, Uçhisar, and Nevşehir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Goreme, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kaymaklı. This car ride takes around 2 hours 39 min.

Head to Kaymaklı Underground City, a captivating cave system in Kaymaklı. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kaymaklı and set your GPS to Uçhisar. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Uçhisar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Pigeon Valley Hotel, a locally renowned hiking area in Uçhisar. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Uchisar Castle. This captivating castle is a top recommendation in the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nevşehir. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Love Valley, a locally renowned rock formation that everyone visiting Nevşehir should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Goreme, 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 Goreme, 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 wonderful meal at Orient, a top-rated dining spot in Goreme. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kapadokya Kebapzade, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Göreme Kaya Otel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Goreme.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Red Red Wine House, offering a different kind of charm.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 2 nights left in Goreme, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nevşehir and set your GPS to Ihlara. 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 1 hour 16 min. Upon reaching Ihlara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Ihlara Valley, a popular canyon that everyone visiting Ihlara should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ihlara, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Selime may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Selime, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Selime Cathedral, an underrated cave system that draws attention for its monumental features.

Saratlı’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Selime behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Saratlı welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Saratlı Kırkgöz Underground City and explore the history-steeped features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Goreme. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at THE HANGOUT, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Turkish Ravioli Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Gurme kebab restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Goreme.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting M&m after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Çavuşin, Nevşehir, and Kayseri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aksaray, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Upon reaching Çavuşin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri, a locally renowned rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Nevşehir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kayseri. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 59 min. When you arrive in Kayseri, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Zelve Open Air Museum, an underrated museum that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

Set your GPS to Kayseri and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 59 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kayseri beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cumhuriyet Meydanı, a worthwhile public square that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aksaray's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Bal Bahçe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bolu Et Mangal Aksaray boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mustafa Chef Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aksaray.

Head back to your accommodation in Aksaray and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Seyhan and Yüreğir, 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 Mersin. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Seyhan. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Aksaray, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Seyhan. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 59 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Ataturk Park is a locally renowned park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Yüreğir, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Seyhan to Yüreğir may take around 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Yüreğir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Seyhan Merkez Park, a notable park known for its eye-catching features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Stone Bridge, a notable monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Sabanci Central Mosque and uncover the details of this historic mosque.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Mersin. Mersin offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Small Lights Cafe Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Adana. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hatay, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Mersin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Adana. Your travel time is around 1 hour 12 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Yag Mosque, a worthwhile mosque known for its standout features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Great Clock Tower, an intriguing monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Adana Grand Mosque and uncover the details of this historic mosque. Make sure to also explore Adana Cinema Museum, a worthwhile museum that offers a unique experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hatay, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Salah Kebap, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight.

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