12-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Malatya to Kâhta, Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, and Goreme

On day 2 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Battalgazi, Malatya, Burmapınar, and Çukurtaş are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kâhta, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your day at Aslantepe Ruins. This UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site is an often recommended place to see in Malatya. Then, wander over to Turgut Özal Nature Park. If visually striking sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Battalgazi, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Silahtar Mustafa Pasa Caravanserai, a frequently visited historical landmark known for its heritage-rich features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Ulu Cami, an often recommended mosque.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Burmapınar. This car ride takes around 1 hour 48 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cendere Bridge. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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

Kâhta 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 Kâhta.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Turkey includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Eyyübiye. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Şanlıurfa, where you'll spend 2 nights.

As you explore Eyyübiye’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Set your GPS to Eyyübiye and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Eyyübiye beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum and explore the photogenic features. Next, make your way to Kızılkoyun Roma Mezarları, another highlight in Eyyübiye. When you’re done exploring the archeological site, continue to Mutfak Muzesi, a heritage-rich museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Şanlıurfa. Check in and relax 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 Şanlıurfa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at TAŞSARAY RESTAURANT, an iconic dining spot in Şanlıurfa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sembol Ocakbaşı Sarayönü Sıra Geceleri, a popular restaurant in Şanlıurfa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of SERRHAN RESTAURANT&OCAKBAŞI, a hidden gem nestled in Şanlıurfa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Eyyübiye and Şanlıurfa. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Şanlıurfa, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Eyyübiye is brimming with adventures.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Urfa City Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Göbekli Tepe, an UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Şanlıurfa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Eyyübiye. This drive usually takes around 8 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Eyyübiye is Mevlid-i Halilulrahman Mağarası, a worthwhile cave that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Şanlıurfa Castle, a historic castle 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 Rizvaniye Camii, an intriguing mosque that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Hasan Padişah Camii, a nearby mosque, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at BOOKS LEMON & CAFE, a popular restaurant in Şanlıurfa. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Şanlıurfa at URFA CİĞER DÜNYASI Bekir Ustanın Yeri 04143132000, 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 Şanlıurfa İrfan Sofrası. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Şanlıurfa tonight.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Şahinbey and Gaziantep. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Gaziantep, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Şahinbey. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pisirici Mescidi Ve Kasteli. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the mosque before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Gaziantep and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gaziantep beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Karagöz Cami and explore the standout features. Next, make your way to Gaziantep Castle, another highlight in Gaziantep. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Gaziantep Hamam Müzesi, a photogenic museum.

Nearby, you will also find Kendirli Gazi Cultural Center. This underrated cultural center is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Gaziantep Museum Of Toys And Games, a picture-perfect museum that is perfect for some final exploring in the town.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Terra Pizza | Gazi Muhtar - Gaziantep, a top-rated dining destination in Gaziantep. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider YESEMEK GAZİANTEP MUTFAĞI, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Baklavaci Zeki İnal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gaziantep this evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Gaziantep, 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 Gaziantep and Şehitkamil.

Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Ulu Cami, an up-and-coming mosque, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ömeriye Camii, an instagrammable mosque, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Gaziantep. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the underrated Gaziantep Archeology Museum. If you’re looking for more, 14 Martyrs Memorial is also an up-and-coming attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Zeugma Mosaics Museum, an interesting museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Gaziantep 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 Gaziantep.

Savor the flavors at Bayazhan Butik Hotel & Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sakıp Usta Paça&Beyran&Kebap beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kahveci Fayat Usta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Gaziantep tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Selime and Derinkuyu. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Goreme, where will spend 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Gaziantep, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Selime. Your travel time is around 5 hours 2 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Selime Cathedral, an underrated cave system in Selime. Explore its monumental features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Derinkuyu, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Selime to Derinkuyu may take around 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Derinkuyu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Üzümlü Kilise is an intriguing church we recommend visiting today. Discover its monumental features before continuing your self-guided tour to Derinkuyu Underground City, a respected cave system that’s well-regarded in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Goreme. Goreme 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 Goreme. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Orient, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kapadokya Kebapzade is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Göreme Kaya Otel. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Goreme tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Red Red Wine House. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Goreme, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate village, including Nevşehir, Urgup, and Goreme.

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

Start your day at Dark Church. This picture-perfect church is an up-and-coming place to see in Goreme. Then, wander over to Love Valley. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this rock formation will be right up your alley.

When you’ve had your share of Goreme, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nevşehir. Your travel time is around 16 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Goreme Historical National Park. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nevşehir, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Urgup. This drive usually takes around 7 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Twin Fairy Chimneys, an increasingly popular rock formation that everyone visiting Urgup should see.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at THE HANGOUT, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Turkish Ravioli Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Gurme kebab restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Goreme.

Continue your lively evening at M&m, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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, you’ll start and end your day in Goreme, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Set your GPS to Çavuşin and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Çavuşin beckons with new experiences!

Paşabağları Müze Ve Örenyeri is a captivating rock formation we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Nevşehir, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Çavuşin to Nevşehir may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nevşehir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Love Valley, an interesting rock formation that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Kursunlu Mosque, where you can soak in the monumental surroundings.

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

Savor the day by heading to Uchisar Castle, a captivating castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Pigeon Valley Hotel, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Sedef, an iconic dining spot in Goreme. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Topdeck Cave, a popular restaurant in Goreme. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Omurca Art Cave, a hidden gem nestled in Goreme. 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 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Kayseri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Malatya, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Goreme’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 1 hour 5 min. When you arrive in Kayseri, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kayseri is Atatürk House Museum, an underrated museum that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Kayseri Castle, a culturally significant castle that stands out in the city.

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 Archeological Museum, an intriguing museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Cumhuriyet Meydanı, a nearby public square, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Kurşunlu Parkı, a picturesque park and the perfect final attraction in Kayseri.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Sahra Düğün Sarayı, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavacı Seydo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tek Tut Kebap. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Malatya.

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