13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Konak, Pamukkale, Muratpaşa, Selçuklu, Goreme, and Altındağ

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night.

A top thing to do today is to explore Beyoğlu, a must-see neighborhood in Istanbul. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Sultanahmet, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Topkapı Palace leaves a lasting impression. This palace is one of the most famous places to visit in Istanbul. Next, head to Hagia Sophia, an iconic mosque, known for its grand 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 Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This historic mosque is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Sultanahmet Square and Basilica Cistern Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Istanbul. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mitani Cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Divella Bistro Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Reggae Br Shot & Food. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Cumalıkızık and Bursa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa, where will spend 1 night.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cumalikizik Village (unesco) and explore the romantic features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cumalıkızık, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bursa. This drive usually takes around 22 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Green Tomb, an up-and-coming monument known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Koza Han, a notable market.

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 Bursa Grand Mosque and uncover the details of this picture-perfect mosque. Make sure to also explore Heykel, an underrated public square.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Kitap Evi Otel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tabipler Lokali beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Abidin Usta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at My Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cemil provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Izmir and Selçuk are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Konak, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Izmir. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 5 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to House Of Virgin Mary, an intriguing church that everyone visiting Izmir should see.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Selçuk. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to The Temple Of Artemis, an intriguing archeological site that everyone visiting Selçuk should see. Next, head to Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This visually striking museum is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

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

Konak 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 Konak.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bizim Lokanta, a highly-rated dining destination in Konak. If you're eager to try something different, consider SELİM DE ÇEŞME KUMRU TOST SANDVİÇ IZGARA KÖFTE KONAK ÇEŞME KUMRU, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Yolo Art&Lounge. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Konak this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bonema Cafe & Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Pamukkale. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Pamukkale, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Konak’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pamukkale. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 41 min. When you arrive in Pamukkale, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Hierapolis Ancient Theater, an often recommended archeological site in Pamukkale. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This underrated museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Travertines Of Pamukkale is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped geothermal field in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the intriguing Pamukkale Turkey and discover what makes this geothermal field unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the village, head to Natural Park, a gorgeous park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Traverten Pide, a popular restaurant in Pamukkale. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pamukkale at Seven Spices İndian restaurant, 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 YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pamukkale tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Marina Clup, where the evening is just getting started.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

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

Konyaaltı’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pamukkale behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 4 min. Konyaaltı welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Konyaaltı Plajları, an often recommended beach known for its mesmerizing features.

When you’ve had your share of Konyaaltı, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Antalya. Your travel time is around 10 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Antalya Archaeology Museum, a captivating museum in Antalya. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Duden Waterfalls. This notable waterfall is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gaziantep Ünlüoğlu Baklavaları, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pidex? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Lara Balık as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Muratpaşa.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Çöplük Cafe & Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Turkey includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Karatay, Konya, and Selçuklu. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Selçuklu, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Karatay and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Karatay beckons with new experiences!

Mevlâna Museum is an impressive museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its monumental features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you arrive in Konya, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Konya is Shams Of Tabriz Mosque And Tomb, an often recommended mosque that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Karatay Madrasah, a culturally significant museum that stands out in the town.

Selçuklu 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 Culture Park, a well-known park that everyone visiting Selçuklu should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Selçuklu. Selçuklu 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 Selçuklu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Taka Balık (Fish), a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cemo Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hacı Şükrü 1907 Kebab Saloons. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Selçuklu tonight.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Uçhisar and Nevşehir. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Goreme, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Selçuklu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Uçhisar. Your travel time is around 2 hours 54 min.

Savor the day by heading to Uchisar Castle, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nevşehir may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Nevşehir, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kizilcukur Valley(gun Batimi). Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the canyon before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Goreme Historical National Park. This interesting national park is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Red Red Wine House, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, M&m also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı. With 1 night to stay in Goreme, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Derinkuyu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Derinkuyu beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Derinkuyu Underground City. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the cave system before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Üzümlü Kilise. This beloved church is a traveler-favorite in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kaymaklı. This car ride takes around 11 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kaymaklı is Kaymaklı Underground City, a notable cave system that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at THE HANGOUT, 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 Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, 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 Gurme kebab restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Goreme. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Ankara and Altındağ are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Altındağ, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ankara may take around 3 hours 8 min. Upon your arrival in Ankara, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Anıtkabir. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Altındağ. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Haci Bayram Mosque and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, another highlight in Altındağ.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Safranhan, an iconic dining spot in Altındağ. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bogazici Lokantasi, a popular restaurant in Altındağ. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Safranbolu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Safranbolu, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Altındağ to Safranbolu may take around 2 hours 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Safranbolu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Safranbolu Hidirlik Hill, an up-and-coming observation deck 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 Tarihi Cinci Hamamı and admire its historic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Safranbolu Evleri, a beloved historical landmark beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul.

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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