13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Denizli traveling west to Izmir, Ayvalık, and Canakkale

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Denizli, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Pamukkale and Goncalı.

After soaking in Denizli’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 30 min. When you arrive in Pamukkale, it's time to take a break from the road.

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 UNESCO world heritage-designated museum is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

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

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Goncalı. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Goncalı is Laodicea Ancient City, a worthwhile archeological site that draws attention for its standout features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Denizli 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 Denizli, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Gökçen Gözleme Evi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Akcesme Kokorec boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, where you have 4 nights left to stay.

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

House Of Virgin Mary is an underrated church we recommend visiting today. Discover its monumental features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Izmir, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Selçuk. This drive usually takes around 15 min.

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, a frequently visited archeological site that everyone visiting Selçuk should see. Next, head to Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This photogenic museum is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on İsa Bey Mosque, a picture-perfect mosque popular among locals as well as travelers.

Sirince’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Selçuk behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Sirince welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Şirince and explore the visually striking features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Boğaziçi Restaurant Bostanlı, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Puerta Alsancak? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cappadocia Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Izmir.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Chaos Cafe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tattoo Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dinosaur Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Karabağlar and Konak. With 3 nights to stay in Izmir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Alsancak, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Karabağlar. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Karabağlar. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Karabağlar is İzmir Historical Elevator Building, an interesting historical landmark that draws attention for its respected features.

Konak’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Karabağlar behind. This drive usually takes around 10 min. Konak welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Konak Square, an up-and-coming square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Konak Mosque, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Clock Tower Of İzmir, yet another interesting place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to Kemeraltı. This heritage-rich market is well worth the visit.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mado, a highly-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're eager to try something different, consider Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Eko Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Deep Rock Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Outro Momento Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Head back to your accommodation in Izmir and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip 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 Bergama and Tiyelti. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ayvalık, where will spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Bergama and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bergama beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Bergama is Bergama Museum, an up-and-coming museum that draws attention for its heritage-rich features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Yeni Cami, 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 Red Basilica, an underrated archeological site that offers a unique experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tiyelti. This drive usually takes around 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Asclepieion Of Pergamon. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ayvalık. 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 Ayvalık. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at White Knight Cafe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bardak offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Çeşni Cunda provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Balıkesir and Ayvalık. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Ayvalık, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Clock Mosque is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This instagrammable mosque is sure to impress. Next on your list is Taksiyarhis Memorial Museum, another must-visit landmark and beloved museum renowned for its picture-perfect features.

Balıkesir’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ayvalık behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Balıkesir welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ayvalık Islands Nature Park, an intriguing nature reserve known for its eye-catching features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ayvalik Pasali Corba, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Orchis boutique hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sofia Ayvalık. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ayvalık tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kraft Ayvalık, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Shelby Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Orman Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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. Tevfikiye and Canakkale are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Canakkale, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ayvalık, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tevfikiye. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 11 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ancient City Of Troy, a popular archeological site known for its picture-perfect features.

When you’ve had your share of Tevfikiye, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Canakkale. Your travel time is around 37 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cimenlik Castle, an often recommended castle that everyone visiting Canakkale should see. Next, head to Nusret Mayın Gemisi. This breathtaking historic ship is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Akava Lounge Food & Drink, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hayal Kahvesi Çanakkale offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cevahir Ev Yemekleri is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Canakkale.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Valhalla Metal Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gergedan is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Macleren's Doors is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Greet day 11 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Canakkale, 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 Gelibolu.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gelibolu, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Canakkale to Gelibolu may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gelibolu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Gallipoli War Museum, an increasingly popular 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. Next, head to Gelibolu Fransız Mezarlığı and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready, continue to Namazgah(azepler Camii), an up-and-coming mosque beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at A La Carte Restaurant - Kepez - Çanakkale, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sardalye offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Revgan Çanakkale. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Canakkale.

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

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