Discover the beauty and wonder of Turkey through its breathtaking road trips. From the stunning Aegean coastline with its small villages and historic ruins to the turquoise-colored coastline from Antalya to Fethiye, each route offers unique experiences and stunning landscapes. Explore the dramatic landscape of Cappadocia with its fairy chimneys, and embark on a road trip from Istanbul to Ephesus, witnessing the shift from bustling urbanity to serene nature. Turkey is waiting to be explored, and these road trips are the perfect way to discover its hidden treasures.
The Aegean Coastline
Probably one of the most beautiful road trips in Turkey, the Aegean coastline is stunning in every season, but in summer there’s the added bonus of stopping off at one of the many coves for a refreshing dip. Explore the small villages, historic ruins, and beaches that dot the entirety of the Turkish coastline. Start in Izmir and continue south to visit former Greek islands like Cunda, Bozcaada, and Gökçeada. You can also decide to drive north along the coast and visit Kuşadası, Bodrum (as well as Ephesus), Datça, Marmaris, and Fethiye. We recommend breaking these trips into a few days, stopping at every island or town for a day or two to really enjoy each destination.
Antalya to Fethiye
The road from Antalya to Fethiye is a big favorite thanks to the stunning turquoise-colored coastline. You can either do this trip on its own or make it part of a larger Aegean coast road trip. However, definitely make sure to stop by the Butterfly Valley, one of the area’s most beautiful beaches wedged between two mountains with white sands and clear blue waters. Another great beach is located in Çıralı, where you can also visit the ruins of the Lycian town of Olympos.
Antalya to Cappadocia
Cappadocia, with its dramatic landscape of fairy chimneys that seem to unveil themselves out of nowhere, is a breathtaking sight. Having a car in Cappadocia is beneficial since a lot of the sights, such as the underground cities, are well outside the main regional city of Göreme. From Antalya to Cappadocia, watch the landscape change from dark blue beach to mysterious mountains, a profound and somewhat surreal experience.
Istanbul to Ephesus
Seeing Istanbul is an essential experience when it comes to visiting Turkey, so starting your road trip after spending a few days in the endearingly chaotic Turkish capital is a great way to start your vacation. The trip from Istanbul to Ephesus takes around seven hours, and you’ll love how the landscape shifts from bustling urbanity to calming nature. Make sure to make a stop in Şirince before you begin exploring the historical wonders of Selçuk and Ephesus.
Fethiye to Pamukkale
From the vibrant town of Fethiye, embark on a road trip to Pamukkale, known for its unique terraces of hot spring mineral deposits. The drive takes approximately four hours, and along the way, you can stop at picturesque villages like Karahayit and Denizli. Once you arrive at Pamukkale, take a dip in the thermal waters and explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis. This road trip offers a beautiful combination of natural beauty and historical sites.
Karakoy to Trabzon
For a scenic road trip along the Black Sea coast, start from Karakoy and head towards Trabzon. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming coastal towns, such as Sürmene, Rize, and Hopa. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and lush green mountains as you drive through the winding roads. Don’t forget to make stops to explore hidden beaches, taste local cuisine, and visit historical landmarks like Sumela Monastery. This road trip showcases the mesmerizing beauty of the Black Sea region.
Bodrum to Marmaris
Take a road trip along the stunning Mediterranean coastline from Bodrum to Marmaris. Enjoy the scenic drive, with the azure blue sea on one side and majestic mountains on the other. Make stops at charming coastal towns like Datça, Dalyan, and Göcek, where you can relax on beautiful beaches and indulge in delicious seafood. Explore ancient ruins, such as the ancient city of Caunos, and take a boat tour to admire the natural wonders of the region. This road trip offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty.
Istanbul to Black Sea Coast
Explore the picturesque Black Sea coast on a road trip from Istanbul. Start your journey in the bustling city and make your way towards the charming towns and villages along the coast. Visit cities like Sile and Amasra, known for their stunning beaches and historical sites. Take a boat tour on the Ayder Plateau and enjoy the breathtaking views of lush green mountains. Indulge in fresh seafood and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. This road trip is a great opportunity to discover the hidden gems of the Black Sea region.
Cappadocia to Antalya
Experience the diverse landscapes of Turkey on a road trip from Cappadocia to Antalya. Explore the otherworldly rock formations and cave dwellings of Cappadocia before embarking on a journey through the Taurus Mountains towards Antalya. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning valleys, ancient ruins, and charming villages. Make stops at attractions like the ancient city of Perge and the picturesque town of Korkuteli. Enjoy the scenic drive and the chance to witness the natural beauty of Turkey.
Ankara to Mount Nemrut
Embark on a road trip from Ankara to Mount Nemrut and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of Turkey. Start your journey in the capital city, Ankara, and make your way towards Mount Nemrut, known for its monumental statues and stunning sunrises. Along the way, visit historical sites like the ancient city of Adiyaman and explore the charming villages of the region. Hike to the summit of Mount Nemrut and witness the breathtaking panoramic views. This road trip offers a unique combination of history and natural wonders.