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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Gaziantep, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Belkıs and Gaziantep. You still have 1 night left in Gaziantep.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Gaziantep, including a park, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Erikche Piknik Forest. This frequently visited park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Botanical Garden located in Gaziantep for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Mothers Park. This park has a majestic appeal.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gaziantep, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Belkıs may take around 50 min. Upon your arrival in Belkıs, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Zeugma Antik Kenti, a frequently visited archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kahveci Fayat Usta. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Gaziantep.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Gaziantep and Şehitkamil. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Adana, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Gaziantep. Begin your sightseeing with Gaziantep Museum Of Toys And Games. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Ömeriye Camii, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Gaziantep, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Gaziantep Archeology Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gaziantep and set your GPS to Şehitkamil. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Şehitkamil, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Zeugma Mosaics Museum, a locally renowned museum in Şehitkamil. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

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

On day 4 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 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kaymaklı. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make your way to Kaymaklı Underground City, a popular cave system that draws attention for its heritage-rich features.

Uçhisar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kaymaklı behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Uçhisar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pigeon Valley Hotel, a captivating hiking area known for its stunning features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Uchisar Castle, a notable castle that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Uçhisar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nevşehir. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Love Valley, a well-known rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Orient, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kapadokya Kebapzade offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Göreme Kaya Otel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Goreme.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Red Red Wine House offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Goreme. M&m is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Ankara, Çankaya, and Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ankara. This car ride takes around 3 hours 33 min.

Head to Metu Forest, a worthwhile park in Ankara. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Anıtkabir. This timeless monument is a top recommendation in the area.

Begin your journey at Kuğulu Park and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Seğmenler Parkı, another highlight in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Altındağ.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Independence Park. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ankara. 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 Ankara. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Filikos Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Muddy Waters, known for its inviting atmosphere. Nil Rock Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Always Rock Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ankara, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Altındağ may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Altındağ, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a notable museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Ankara Castle, where you can soak in the historic surroundings. Next, explore Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, yet another well-known place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Haci Bayram Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is well worthwhile the visit.

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 Aksaray. Aksaray 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 Aksaray. 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 wonderful meal at Bal Bahçe, a top-rated dining spot in Aksaray. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bolu Et Mangal Aksaray, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mustafa Chef Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aksaray.

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

Dive into day 8 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.

When you’ve had your share of Aksaray, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Seyhan. Your travel time is around 2 hours 59 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ataturk Park, a captivating park known for its majestic features.

When you’ve had your share of Seyhan, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Yüreğir. Your travel time is around 4 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Seyhan Merkez Park, a locally renowned park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Stone Bridge, where you can soak in the historic surroundings. Next, explore Sabanci Central Mosque, yet another often recommended place to see in the area.

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.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Small Lights Cafe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Adana. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hatay, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Adana, 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 Mersin to Adana may take around 1 hour 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Adana, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Adana Grand Mosque and explore the symbolic features. Next, make your way to Adana Cinema Museum, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Great Clock Tower, a history-steeped monument. Nearby, you will also find Tarihi Kazancilar Çarşısı. This often recommended market is a top place to see in the area.

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 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.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Hatay, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hatay and set your GPS to Bozlu. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Bozlu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Harbiye Falls, a popular waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Bozlu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Antakya. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Antakya, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Ataturk Park, a beloved park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Habib-i Nejjar Mosque and admire its culturally significant features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antakya and set your GPS to Hıdırbey. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Hıdırbey, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Moses Tree and explore the instagrammable features.

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

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.

Dine in style at Toros Ocakbasi Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

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

On day 11 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 and İskenderun. In the evening, you’ll end up in Gaziantep, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hatay, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Antakya. This drive usually takes around 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Church Of St Pierre is a locally appreciated church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Hatay Archeology Museum, a photogenic museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, İskenderun. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is İskenderun Naval Museum. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the military museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Atatürk Aniti. This underrated monument is a traveler-favorite in the town.

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 Gaziantep. Gaziantep 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Lotte Cafe Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Gaziantep. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dostlar Meyhanesi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kasap Halil Usta Fırınlı Et Lokantası. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gaziantep this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!