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

Your itinerary for day 3 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.

When you’ve had your share of Kâhta, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Eyyübiye. Your travel time is around 2 hours 4 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Mevlid-i Halilulrahman Mağarası and explore the picturesque features. Next, make your way to Şanlıurfa Castle, another highlight in Eyyübiye. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Kızılkoyun Roma Mezarları, a symbolic archeological site.

Nearby, you will also find Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Rizvaniye Camii, a monumental mosque that is perfect for some final exploring in the town.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Şanlıurfa. Şanlıurfa 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 Şanlıurfa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Acar, Eskikale, and Mardin are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mardin, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Şanlıurfa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Acar. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 35 min.

Kasımiye Madrasah is an often recommended monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Eskikale and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Eskikale beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Mor Hananyo Monastery and explore the breathtaking features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Mardin, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Eskikale to Mardin may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Mardin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Grand Mosque is an up-and-coming mosque we recommend visiting today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Mardin Museum, a gorgeous museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Zinciriye Medresesi, a symbolic monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Cumhuriyet Meydanı, a history-steeped and truly unique public square.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mardin, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Midyat and Mardin. With 1 night to stay in Mardin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Start your day at Sakıp Sabancı Mardin Kent Müzesi. This awe-inspiring museum is an underrated place to see in Mardin. Then, wander over to Şehidiye Medresesi. If breathtaking sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mardin Evleri. This romantic historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Midyat’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Mardin behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. Midyat welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Midyat Guest House, a worthwhile historical landmark known for its stunning features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Midyat Caves, an increasingly popular cave system.

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 City Museum and uncover the details of this instagrammable museum.

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

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

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Şehitkamil 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.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Şehitkamil may take around 4 hours 5 min. Upon your arrival in Şehitkamil, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Zeugma Mosaics Museum, a well-known 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gaziantep, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Şehitkamil to Gaziantep may take around 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gaziantep, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Gaziantep is Gaziantep Archeology Museum, an intriguing museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Gaziantep 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 Karagöz Cami, an up-and-coming mosque that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Ömeriye Camii, a nearby mosque, highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Gaziantep. 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 Gaziantep's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Gaziantep. You’ll stay in Gaziantep for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Botanical Garden is an essential stop in Gaziantep. This up-and-coming botanical garden provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Independence Mosque, a picture-perfect mosque, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Gaziantep Museum Of Toys And Games, an often recommended museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Turkey. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Gaziantep.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Goreme, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Goreme, there’s no need to rush. Experience Nevşehir to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Set your GPS to Nevşehir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nevşehir beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Love Valley, a well-known rock formation 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 Kizilcukur Valley(gun Batimi) and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Goreme Historical National Park, a notable national park beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nevşehir. This car ride takes around 9 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Devrent Vadisi, an underrated rock formation that everyone visiting Nevşehir should see.

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

Goreme 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 Goreme.

Enjoy a delicious meal at THE HANGOUT, a highly-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're eager to try something different, consider Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gurme kebab restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 1 place, which are Kayseri. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Malatya, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Kayseri and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kayseri beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kayseri Castle, a popular castle in Kayseri. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Archeological Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Bürüngüz Mosque is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant mosque in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming Cumhuriyet Meydanı and discover what makes this public square unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Kayseri Clock Tower, a symbolic monument many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Malatya, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Malatya 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 Malatya.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Sahra Düğün Sarayı, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tavacı Seydo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tek Tut Kebap. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Malatya tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!