9 Days Highlights of Turkey By Car

Our review of the 9 Days Highlights of Turkey By Car offers a detailed look at an organized yet flexible way to explore Turkey’s captivating sights. This tour promises a comprehensive journey through Istanbul’s historic sites, the natural wonder of Pamukkale, the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia, and cultural treasures in Konya and Aksaray. With a focus on private transportation, hotel accommodations, and expert guides, it balances comfort with authentic immersion.

What truly caught my eye are the seamless logistics — especially how the tour manages to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed and the detailed, well-curated itinerary. Two elements I particularly appreciated are the knowledgeable guides, like Umut, who seem to genuinely care about making your experience memorable, and the chance to enjoy local flavors and traditions, from Turkish delights in Bursa to the underground cities of Cappadocia.

One consideration for travelers is the long driving days, such as the 8-hour journey from Pamukkale to Cappadocia. While this means lots of time on the road, it’s balanced by the opportunity to see diverse regions of Turkey, from coastlines to highlands. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel intense, but for those eager to see as much as possible, it’s a good trade-off.

Key points / Takeaways

• Well-organized private tour: This experience is tailored for small groups or individual travelers, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
• Rich itinerary: From Istanbul’s palaces and mosques to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, every day offers something unique.
• Expert guides: The positive reviews highlight guides like Umut, who provide valuable tips and a friendly presence.
• Comfortable transportation: Clean vehicles, timely pickups, and a smooth ride make the long drives more bearable.
• Authentic experiences: Visiting places like the Virgin Mary’s House, Hierapolis, and the underground city adds depth beyond typical tourist spots.
• Value for price: At around $2,430 per person, including hotels with breakfast, some meals, and entrance fees, this tour provides good value given the extensive coverage.

Setting out on a 9-day journey through Turkey by car is an adventure packed with contrasts — ancient ruins, vibrant cities, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. While I haven’t personally traveled this exact route, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-balanced experience, especially suited for travelers craving a rundown without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves.

Day 1-2: Starting in Istanbul — The Crown Jewel of Turkey

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome after landing in Istanbul, where a driver and guide will meet you. The transfer to your hotel sets the tone — expect a smooth start and the comfort of private transportation. The rest of the day is free, giving you a chance to acclimate or explore at your own pace.

The next day is packed with iconic sights. The Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into Ottoman grandeur — though the ticket isn’t included, the exterior, gardens, and history are captivating. I love how the palace has survived four centuries and hosted 25 sultans, making it a tangible link to Turkey’s imperial past.

The Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are next, both free to enter and packed with stories. The Hagia Sophia, famed for its innovative architecture and centuries of religious significance, was originally constructed three times in the same spot, a true testament to Turkey’s layered history. The Blue Mosque impresses with its blue tiles and towering minarets — a real photo opportunity.

Post sightseeing, you’ll head to Bursa, a city full of Ottoman history and Turkish delights. The free evening here allows you to stroll through local markets or relax after a day of travel.

Day 3-4: From Bursa to Ephesus and Pamukkale

On the third day, you’ll visit the Grand Mosque and the tombs of Osman and Orhan, the founders of the Ottoman Empire. These spots are more than just photo ops — they connect you to the roots of Turkish history. The Munira Bursa shop, where you can sample Turkish delights and cosmetics, offers a delicious taste of local craftsmanship.

Afterward, a long drive takes you to Kusadasi. Though the trip is around five hours, the scenery along the way is part of the experience. Once in Kusadasi, the next day’s adventures begin with the legendary Ancient City of Ephesus. Walking among Roman ruins that date back to the 7th century BC provides a visual history lesson. The nearby Virgin Mary’s House is steeped in tradition, believed to be where Mary spent her last years, adding a spiritual layer to your visit.

A visit to a leather factory and a fashion show in Selcuk introduces you to Turkish craftsmanship, and the highlight of the day is Pamukkale. The surreal white terraces of mineral-rich pools seem almost like they belong to another planet. The nearby Hierapolis ruins add a historic flavor, with baths and temples from the Greek era.

Day 5-6: From Pamukkale to Cappadocia — Long Drives and Fairy-Tale Landscapes

The lengthy drive from Pamukkale to Urgup (about 8 hours) is a real commitment, but the landscape shifts dramatically. Once in Cappadocia, you’re greeted with a landscape straight from a storybook — towering rock formations, underground cities, and ancient cave dwellings.

Goreme’s Open-Air Museum is an absolute must — a monastic complex carved into soft volcanic rock, dating back to the 10th century. The carvings and churches within are fascinating and give you insight into the region’s spiritual history.

Pigeon Valley offers sweeping views and iconic dovecotes carved into the cliffs, while Uchisar Castle provides panoramic vistas from Turkey’s highest point in Cappadocia. For a more surprising adventure, the Ozkonak Underground City reveals how early inhabitants sought refuge from invaders — a real feat of engineering.

Pasabag, or Monk’s Valley, showcases the signature fairy chimneys, some of the youngest formations, and is perfect for photos and wandering.

Day 7: From Cappadocia to Aksaray — Cultural Stops and Scenic Drives

The drive continues with a visit to Lake Tuz, a massive hypersaline lake that’s otherworldly in its stark beauty. Then, at Anitkabir, you pay homage to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose mausoleum is a symbol of modern Turkey.

Bolu marks the end of a long day’s journey, a quiet city where you might reflect on the diverse landscapes and history you’ve seen so far.

Day 8: Back to Istanbul — Urban Views and Markets

Your return to Istanbul is marked by visits to Camlica Hill, offering the best city views, and a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. The strait is a vital waterway, and standing on its shores, you can almost hear the ships and stories of traders passing between continents.

The Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar) is a sensory delight — spices, nuts, and sweets fill the air, making it a vibrant end to your day before heading to the iconic Grand Bazaar. Here, you can haggle for souvenirs or just soak in the lively atmosphere.

Day 9: Final Day in Istanbul

Your last day features Taksim Square, a bustling hub of activity, shops, and history. The tour concludes with drop-off at the airport, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and a treasure trove of memories.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 9-day Turkey highlights tour is ideal for travelers who want an all-encompassing overview without the hassle of planning every detail. If you enjoy seeing a mix of historical sites, natural wonders, and vibrant city life, this trip offers a balanced approach. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with long drives and eager to see a wide swath of Turkey’s diverse regions.

Travelers who value guided experiences and appreciate having logistics handled for them will find this particularly convenient. The inclusion of hotel stays with breakfast, some meals, and entrance fees means you can focus on enjoying the sights rather than worrying about costs and arrangements.

What I Love

The guides — especially the reviews praise them for their knowledge and tips. Umut’s friendly guidance and practical tips seem to make a difference, turning a sightseeing day into a memorable experience. The carefully curated stops like Hierapolis or the underground city provide authentic insights and photo opportunities.

The scenic drives give you a chance to see Turkey’s landscapes change dramatically, from coastlines to highlands. The combination of historical, cultural, and natural sites packed into just under two weeks is quite impressive.

What To Keep in Mind

The biggest consideration is the long travel days, especially from Pamukkale to Cappadocia. If you prefer slower-paced trips, pacing might feel a bit rushed. However, if your goal is to maximize Turkey’s highlights, this itinerary delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
It requires a moderate level of physical activity and comfort with walking and stairs, especially at sites like the underground city and open-air museums.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you should budget for these at your own discretion.

What kind of transportation is provided?
A private, clean vehicle is used for transfers and daily drives, offering convenience and comfort throughout the trip.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts are included, as well as 8 lunches and 2 dinners, but some site-specific or optional meals are not covered.

Does the tour accommodate special requests?
Since it’s a private tour, you may be able to discuss specific interests with your guide, such as more time at certain sites or additional local experiences.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, but consider the long drives and walking involved. It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s potential for some flexibility, but changes should be discussed in advance.

What’s the overall value?
Given the extensive coverage, guided expertise, and included accommodations, the price offers good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive Turkish adventure.

In closing, this 9-day Highlights of Turkey tour offers a rich tapestry of history, landscape, and culture, all wrapped into a convenient, guided package. It’s a fantastic way to experience Turkey’s diversity, especially if you’re eager to see the main sights without the stress of logistics. While long drives may not be for everyone, the reward of witnessing some of the most iconic and breathtaking sights makes it a worthwhile journey for most travelers seeking an authentic and memorable Turkish adventure.