One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Denizli to Izmir
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Turkey on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pamukkale, Denizli, Goncalı, Merkezefendi, Altındere, Selçuk, Karabağlar, Konak, Çeşme, Tiyelti, Bergama, Çandarlı, Sart, and Salihli. This road trip itinerary in Turkey seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Denizli and 4 nights in Izmir. 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 Denizli, 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. Travertines Of Pamukkale and Kemeraltı are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable İzmir Historical Elevator Building, learn more about the unique Clock Tower Of İzmir, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alaçatı Çarşı.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pamukkale, Denizli, Goncalı, Merkezefendi, Altındere, Selçuk, Karabağlar, Konak, Çeşme, Tiyelti, Bergama, Çandarlı, Sart, and Salihli, 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
- Denizli - Arrival day
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- Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park
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Welcome to Denizli, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Denizli's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Denizli 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 Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Denizli. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Denizli, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Lavin Otel Denizli, a top-rated dining spot in Denizli. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ruma Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Denizli
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Drive 89 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Hierapolis Archaeology Museum
- Travertines of Pamukkale (thermal pools)
- The ancient city of Laodicea
- Adalet Parkı
- Altındere Vadisi
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Denizli, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Denizli today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum and learn what makes this breathtaking museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the impressive Travertines Of Pamukkale. After exploring the geothermal field, head to Laodicea Ancient City. This locally appreciated archeological site is a highlight in Denizli. As your day continues, stop by Adalet Parkı, known for its picturesque features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the beloved Altındere Vadisi. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Denizli.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Denizli. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gökçen Gözleme Evi, an iconic dining spot in Denizli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Akcesme Kokorec, a popular restaurant in Denizli. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
Head back to your accommodation in Denizli and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 3
- Denizli
- Izmir
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Drive 273 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Natural Park of the Virgin Mary
- House of Virgin Mary
- The Temple of Artemis
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum
- Basilica Of Saint John
- İsa Bey Mosque
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Izmir and Selçuk. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, House Of Virgin Mary, an awe-inspiring church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to The Temple Of Artemis, one of the region’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Ephesus Archaeological Museum. When you're finished at the museum, Basilica Of Saint John awaits your visit. This church is a stunning highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a mosque - the frequently visited İsa Bey Mosque.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Izmir. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Izmir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, an iconic dining spot in Izmir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe, a popular restaurant in Izmir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Emniyet Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Izmir. 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 Catch, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stone Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Sky Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 4
- Izmir
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Drive 10 km, 42 min
- İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
- Smyrna Agora Ancient City
- Kemeraltı
- Clock Tower of İzmir
- Konak Square
- Alsancak
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Izmir, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Karabağlar is Alsancak. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Izmir. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! İzmir Historical Elevator Building is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most well-known places to visit in Izmir. Next, head to Agora Of Smyrna, an often recommended archeological site, known for its historic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Kemeraltı. This heritage-rich market is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Clock Tower Of İzmir and Konak Square. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Izmir and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Izmir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Puerta Alsancak is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cappadocia Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Chaos Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Tattoo Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 5
- Izmir
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Drive 177 km, 2 hours 17 min
- Alaçatı Çarşı
- Cesme Castle
- Çeşme Marina
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On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Izmir for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Izmir and Çeşme to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
A top thing to do today is to explore Çeşme Marina, a must-see neighborhood in Izmir. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Izmir on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Alaçatı Çarşı is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic market before continuing your journey. Çeşme Castle is your next stop. This notable castle is one of the best-rated sights in Izmir.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Izmir.
As you explore more of Izmir, 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 delightful dinner at Mado, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eko Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Deep Rock Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Outro Momento Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!
Day 6
- Izmir
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Asclepieion of Pergamon
- Red Basilica
- Yeni Cami
- Bergama Museum
- Çandarlı Castle
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Izmir for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Tiyelti, Bergama, and Çandarlı.
Get ready for an exciting day in Izmir. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a mosque, a museum, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Asclepieion Of Pergamon. This is an up-and-coming archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Red Basilica, an often recommended archeological site in Izmir.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Yeni Cami. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Bergama Museum, another of the village’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Çandarlı Castle, a culturally significant place of interest in the village.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Izmir and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Izmir's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at rePUBlic-izmir, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Gülgün Pide offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Moresi Girit Mutfağı. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Izmir.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Izmir
- Denizli
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Lydia Park Nature
- Kursunlu Kaplicalari
- Hamidiye Mosque
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Sart, Manisa, and Salihli, 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 Denizli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lydia Park Nature. This beloved sightseeing destination is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Kursunlu Kaplicalari, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Hamidiye Mosque, one of the most intriguing places to see in Izmir. This mosque is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Denizli, 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 Denizli's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at ATA BREAD FACTORY, a top-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAFE Pİ, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!
Day 8
- Denizli - Departure day
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- Denizli Gondola
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Day 8 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Denizli 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 Denizli Gondola, a picture-perfect tramway before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Denizli.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Meşhur Denizli Kebapçısı, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Denizli. 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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