12-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Denizli to Selçuk, Izmir, Ayvalık, Canakkale, and Bursa

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Pamukkale and Goncalı. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Denizli, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Pamukkale on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Pamukkale’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Denizli behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Pamukkale welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Hierapolis Ancient Theater, a locally appreciated archeological site that everyone visiting Pamukkale should see. Next, head to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This stunning museum is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Travertines Of Pamukkale, an enchanting geothermal field popular among locals as well as travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Goncalı. This car ride takes around 26 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Laodicea Ancient City and explore the breathtaking features.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Denizli's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gökçen Gözleme Evi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Akcesme Kokorec offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Izmir and Selçuk. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Selçuk, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Izmir may take around 2 hours 38 min. Upon your arrival in Izmir, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit House Of Virgin Mary, an underrated church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Selçuk is The Temple Of Artemis, a frequently visited archeological site that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a historic museum that stands out in the region.

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 İsa Bey Mosque, an increasingly popular mosque that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Basilica Of Saint John, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Selçuk 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 Selçuk.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Karabağlar and Konak. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Selçuk, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Karabağlar. Your travel time is around 17 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a well-known historical landmark known for its romantic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Konak, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Karabağlar to Konak may take around 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Konak, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Clock Tower Of İzmir, a captivating monument.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Kemeraltı and uncover the details of this respected market. Make sure to also explore Hisar Mosque, an often recommended mosque.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Izmir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Balmumu Dükkan. Lokanta, a highly-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Emniyet Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Catch, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Stone Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Izmir. Sky Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 6 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Tiyelti, Balıkesir, and Ayvalık are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ayvalık, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Izmir, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tiyelti. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Asclepieion Of Pergamon, an underrated archeological site that everyone visiting Tiyelti should see.

When you’ve had your share of Tiyelti, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Balıkesir. Your travel time is around 53 min.

Sarımsaklı Plajı is a well-known beach we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ayvalık may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Ayvalık, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Taksiyarhis Memorial Museum, a frequently visited museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Clock Mosque, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe's, a top-rated dining spot in Ayvalık. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kök Tadım Mutfağı, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ayvalık Meyhanesi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ayvalık.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at White Knight Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bardak provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Çeşni Cunda offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Ayvalık, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Balıkesir and Ayvalık.

Cunda Merkez is an ideal stop early in the day. This curiosity-inducing public square is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Aşıklar Tepesi, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

Set your GPS to Balıkesir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Balıkesir beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Ayvalık Islands Nature Park, a worthwhile nature reserve known for its instagrammable features.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, an iconic dining spot in Ayvalık. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Orchis boutique hotel, a popular restaurant in Ayvalık. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sofia Ayvalık, a hidden gem nestled in Ayvalık. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kraft Ayvalık, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Shelby Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Orman Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Osmangazi 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.

Osmangazi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Canakkale behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 25 min. Osmangazi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Bursa Archaeological Museum is an intriguing museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Osmangazi, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bursa. This drive usually takes around 11 min.

Savor the day by heading to Koza Han, an interesting market that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Bursa Grand Mosque, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Bursa City Museum, yet another increasingly popular place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Heykel. This respected public square is well worth the visit.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bursa. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tabipler Lokali offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Abidin Usta is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like My Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cemil offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Bursa and Cumalıkızık. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Denizli, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Green Tomb and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Şible Camii, a monumental mosque that draws visitors from far and near.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Emir Sultan Mosque and explore the stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cumalıkızık. This drive usually takes around 21 min.

Cumalikizik Village (unesco) is a frequently visited historical landmark we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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 delightful dinner at ATA BREAD FACTORY, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try CAFE Pİ? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!