12-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara to Goreme, Adana, Konya, Antalya, Aydın, Bursa, Istanbul, and Bolu and surrounding area

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Çankaya and Ankara. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Goreme, where you'll spend 1 night.

Catch Anıtkabir before the crowds roll in. This breathtaking monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, a must-visit museum in the town.

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Çankaya is Seğmenler Parkı, a well-known park that draws attention for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Goreme. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the village.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Orient, a top-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kapadokya Kebapzade, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Göreme Kaya Otel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Red Red Wine House, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, M&m provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Turkey includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Çavuşin, Uçhisar, and Kaymaklı. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Adana, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Çavuşin, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Goreme to Çavuşin may take around 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Çavuşin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Uçhisar may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Uçhisar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Uchisar Castle, a locally renowned castle known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Pigeon Valley Hotel, an interesting hiking area.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kaymaklı may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Kaymaklı, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kaymaklı Underground City, a captivating cave system known for its standout features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Adana, 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 Adana's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kazancılar Restoran Büyüksaat, a top-rated dining spot in Adana. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mert Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sirdanci Bedo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Adana.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Adana, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Adana, there’s no need to rush. Experience Antakya to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Antakya, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Adana to Antakya may take around 2 hours 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Antakya, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ataturk Park, a beloved park in Antakya. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Habib-i Nejjar Mosque. This beloved mosque is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Hatay Archeology Museum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich museum in the region.

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

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 Adana, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Izol Baklava Salonu, a top-rated dining destination in Adana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider İştah Kebap, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kaktus Garden Cafe Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Adana this evening.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Adana and Yüreğir are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Konya, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Great Clock Tower has to offer. This is a locally appreciated monument you should not miss.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Konya. This car ride takes around 4 hours 1 min.

Savor the day by heading to Stone Bridge, a popular monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Sabanci Central Mosque, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Seyhan Merkez Park, yet another popular 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 Konya. Konya 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 Konya, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Kafem Gedavet, a popular restaurant in Konya. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Konya at Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Asmalı Konak Bilardo. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Konya tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Grand Maksim Gazinosu after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cafe Extrablatt for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mr. Frog Pub Bistro is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Denizli and Pamukkale. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aydın, where will spend 1 night.

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

Denizli’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Antalya behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 34 min. Denizli welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Şahin Tepesi, an up-and-coming observation deck in Denizli. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Denizli Gondola. This underrated tramway is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Bağbaşı Plateau is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most serene plateau in the region.

When you’ve had your share of Denizli, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pamukkale. Your travel time is around 21 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park, a beloved park in Pamukkale. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Aydın, 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 Aydın. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Tarihi Sarıoğlu Lokantası, a top-rated dining destination in Aydın. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dede Lokantası, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Baba Sakir Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aydın this evening.

Keep the evening going at Şapildak Cafe & Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Raven Cafe & Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Yeni Eski Cafe Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Selçuk and Bursa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bursa, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bursa may take around 3 hours 59 min. Upon your arrival in Bursa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a well-known museum known for its photogenic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Selçuk and set your GPS to Bursa. 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 59 min. Upon reaching Bursa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Bursa Grand Mosque, a notable mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Koza Han and admire its respected features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bursa. Bursa offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Bursa is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bursa.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at My Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cemil offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Turkey includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Istanbul. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque, an astonishing mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Hagia Sophia and admire its historic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Gülhane Park, a widely recognized park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Spice Bazaar, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Grand Bazaar, a heritage-rich place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Istanbul. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot in Istanbul for its delicious fusion cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Malt Bar Gayrettepe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

On day 10 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Beyoğlu and Üsküdar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bolu, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Üsküdar. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Galata Tower is a wondrous observation deck we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Beyoğlu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Üsküdar. This drive usually takes around 14 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Üsküdar is Dolmabahçe Palace, a top-rated palace that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a culturally significant mosque that stands out in the town.

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 Ortaköy Square, a popular public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Yıldız Park, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bolu, 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 Bolu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a highly-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Altındağ. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Ankara, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bolu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Altındağ. Your travel time is around 2 hours 6 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ulucanlar Prison Museum and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Ankara Castle, another highlight in Altındağ. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a heritage-rich museum.

Nearby, you will also find Haci Bayram Mosque. This captivating mosque is a top 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 Ankara. Ankara 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 Ankara, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Golden Pavilion Museum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Afganistan Sofrası. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ankara tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like On An On Rock Cafe, known for its lively atmosphere. London Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Ankara and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey.