9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Samsun to Ankara and Goreme

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

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Amisos Hill and allow yourself time to explore.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Samsun, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Atakum. This drive usually takes around 10 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Of Art Center, an up-and-coming art gallery that everyone visiting Atakum should see.

When you’ve had your share of Atakum, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of İlkadım. Your travel time is around 14 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in İlkadım is Tütün Pier, a locally appreciated pier that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Atatürk Parkı, a peaceful park 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 Samsun Kent Müzesi, an underrated museum that offers a unique experience.

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

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

Dine in style at Sisman Borekci, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Batıpark Karadeniz Balık Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Altındağ. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Ankara, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Altındağ’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Samsun behind. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 49 min. Altındağ 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 50th Year Park, an often recommended park that everyone visiting Altındağ should see. Next, head to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This eye-catching museum is one of the most notable attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Haci Bayram Mosque, a culturally significant mosque popular among locals as well as travelers. Independence Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this captivating park before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Tacettin Sultan Mosque, a heritage-rich mosque and a top attraction in the town.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Livorno Pub, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Filikos Restoran, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Muddy Waters. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Nil Rock Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Always Rock Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 places, which are Uçhisar, Urgup, Nevşehir, and Goreme. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Goreme, where will spend 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Uçhisar. This car ride takes around 3 hours 4 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Uçhisar is Uchisar Castle, a popular castle that draws attention for its enchanting features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Uçhisar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Urgup. This drive usually takes around 14 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Twin Fairy Chimneys and explore the eye-catching features.

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 Urgup to Nevşehir may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nevşehir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Goreme Historical National Park, a popular national park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kuytu Köşe Nargile Cafe & Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Red Red Wine House is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

On day 6 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 2 nights to spend in Goreme, there’s no need to rush. Experience Derinkuyu to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Goreme, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Derinkuyu. This drive usually takes around 38 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Derinkuyu Underground City and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Üzümlü Kilise, another highlight in Derinkuyu.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at THE HANGOUT, a top-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Turkish Ravioli Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gurme kebab restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Goreme this evening.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 Goreme, 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 Kayseri.

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!

Our first attraction recommendation in Kayseri is Kayseri Castle, a popular castle that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Archeological Museum, a standout museum 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 Cumhuriyet Meydanı, a curiosity-inducing public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Kayseri Clock Tower, a nearby monument, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Kurşunlu Parkı, an idyllic park and the perfect final attraction in Kayseri.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sedef, a top-rated dining destination in Goreme. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Topdeck Cave, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Omurca Art Cave. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Goreme 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.