Road Trips in Turkey

Istanbul is considered one of the major attractions of Turkey. It will enchant you with beautiful vistas, unforgettable examples of architecture, and a number of top-notch restaurants where you’ll experience local cuisine. The must-see attractions include Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the famous Grand Bazaar.

A stone’s throw away from the capital, you’ll find the scenic Sea of Marmara that will surprise you with a thousand of stunning views. Take a trip to the two shallow lakes, namely Uluabat Gölü and Manyas Gölü. Around them, you’ll find plenty of idyllic small villages and towns where you can immerse yourself deeper into the local traditions, for example in Cumalikizik.

The lovers of beach life will be delighted with a trip to the Aegean Coast. Izmir will surprise you with great accommodation opportunities and top-rated tourist infrastructure, in Selçuk, you’ll find a starting point for Ephesus, and in Mugla or Birgi, you’ll admire Ottoman architecture. Those who are interested in ancient sites should direct their steps to Şirince and Alaçat?, both perfectly preserved old Greek villages. In the near vicinity, you’ll also find the stunning lake of Bafa Gölü with the nearby Pamukkale, where you can bathe in thermal springs. 

Travelers who are more interested in the urban environment should travel to Anatolia, where they will find plenty of provincial towns and small villages. Safranbolu will be an ideal starting point for the Black Sea Coast and its gems, Amasya is a showcase of Ottoman architecture, and Hattuşa is a treat for lovers of historical landmarks and temples. Don’t forget to visit Divrigi and Sivas as well.

If you want to take a trip back in time, it’s best to head for the Euphrates and Tigris Basin. There’s plenty to choose from, including Gaziantep, Birecik, Hilvan, and Yuvacali. Visit the sanctuary of Nemrut Dagi, admire the vistas on the  Tür Abdin plateau, and learn more about religious architecture in the monastery of Mar Gabriel. 

Suggested Road Trips in Turkey

For first-time visitors to Turkey, there are several road trips that are highly recommended. Here are three of the best routes to consider:

• Istanbul to Cappadocia: This road trip takes you from the vibrant city of Istanbul to the stunningly beautiful region of Cappadocia in central Turkey. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore historic sites like the ancient city of Troy and the fairy-tale-like rock formations of the Ilhara Valley. You'll also have the chance to experience the unique culture and cuisine of Turkey's central Anatolian region.

• The Aegean Coast: This road trip takes you along the stunning Aegean coast, with stops at historic sites like the ancient city of Ephesus and the stunning Temple of Apollo at Didyma. You'll also have the chance to explore charming seaside towns like Bodrum and Kusadasi and relax on some of Turkey's most beautiful beaches.

• The Black Sea Coast: This road trip takes you along Turkey's scenic Black Sea coast, with stops at charming towns like Trabzon and Rize, and stunning natural attractions like the Uzungol Lake and the Sumela Monastery. You'll also have the chance to sample some of Turkey's freshest and most delicious seafood along the way.

All of these road trips offer a chance to experience the best of Turkey, from its rich history and culture to its stunning natural beauty and delicious cuisine. Whether you're interested in ancient ruins, charming towns, or relaxing on beautiful beaches, Turkey has something for everyone on these recommended road trips.

Regardless of whether you choose your own vehicle or a rental car while moving around Turkey, there exist a number of traffic regulations that should be followed in order to avoid unpleasant situations and paying unnecessary fines.

Don’t worry, most of these laws are in compliance with the European traffic rules so you won’t have to get used to a new traffic environment. In order to drive a vehicle, you need to be 18; however, many car rental companies may require you to be as old as 21 to rent a car.

As many as seven Turkish rods charge tolls; however, these aren’t expensive and will guarantee all motorists pleasant road experiences. Even the longest distances, like Istanbul-Ankara will require you to pay as little as EUR 12.50.

In order to spare yourself paying any additional on the spot fines you should never use your mobile phone while driving. Those who have to make an urgent phone call in the middle of the trip should use special hands-free sets that won’t become an additional distraction while driving. What’s more, Turkey has zero tolerance for any blood alcohol level. It’s best to avoid situations in which you need to go to jail for one small drink that you had before hitting the road.

In case of emergency, you should always wait for a police car before leaving the scene of the accident. You should call 154 for traffic police. You can also use the international emergency number 112.

We’ve got some good news as parking is very often available almost anywhere in all parts of the country. There are also parking lots and garages available in larger cities for the visiting motorists. All areas where you’re forbidden to park are marked with yellow and red lines.

While driving in Turkey, you should always carry your driver’s licence, liability insurance, ID or passport, and Green Card. When it comes to the Turkish speed limits, you are allowed to drive at a speed of 50 km/h in urban areas. When it comes to driving in rural areas and on motorways, you should observe the limits of 90 km/h and 120 km/h respectively. Speed cameras are a common phenomenon in Turkey and safety camera warning decides are seen as illegal.

Obligatory car equipment includes: a fire extinguisher, a spare tyre, two warning triangles, and a first aid kit. It’s also worth carrying a reflective vest as you never know when it might come in handy.

While road tripping in Turkey can be an exciting and unforgettable experience, there are a few things to be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Road conditions: Road conditions in Turkey can vary, with some roads in disrepair and others well-maintained. Be prepared for narrow roads, occasional potholes, and unexpected obstacles like livestock or pedestrians on the road. It's also important to be aware of local driving customs, which can be different from what you're used to.

• Security: While Turkey is generally a safe country to travel in, there are some areas that may be more prone to crime or unrest. It's a good idea to research your route in advance and check for any travel advisories or warnings. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions like not leaving valuables in plain sight in your car.

• Traffic: Traffic in major cities like Istanbul can be congested and chaotic, especially during rush hour. Be prepared for delays and plan your route accordingly. If possible, avoid driving in major cities during peak traffic times.

• Weather: Turkey can experience extreme weather conditions, especially during the summer months. Be prepared for hot temperatures and high humidity if you're traveling during this time, and make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. If you're traveling during the winter months, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential snow or ice on the roads.

• Language: Turkish is the official language of Turkey, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. It's a good idea to bring a phrasebook or language translation app to help with communication, especially if you plan to travel to more rural areas.

By keeping these tips in mind and doing some research before your trip, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Turkey. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Turkey is a fantastic destination for a road trip adventure.

The best time of year for taking a road trip in Turkey depends on where you want to go and what activities you plan to do. Generally, the most popular times to visit Turkey are in the spring (April to May) and the fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months.

During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can be quite hot, especially in inland regions like Cappadocia. However, if you plan to spend most of your time on the coast, summer can be a great time to enjoy the beaches and warm Mediterranean waters.

The winter months (December to February) can be quite cold in some parts of Turkey, especially in inland regions and at higher elevations. However, this can be a great time to visit for skiing or winter sports in places like Uludag or Kartalkaya.

Overall, the best time of year for a road trip in Turkey is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. However, with proper planning and preparation, Turkey can be an enjoyable destination for a road trip any time of year.

The cost of a road trip in Turkey can vary depending on several factors, including your travel style, accommodation choices, and the duration of your trip. However, here is a general idea of what you can expect in terms of costs:

Accommodation: Depending on your preferences, you can find a wide range of accommodation options in Turkey, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. A budget traveler can expect to spend around $10-20 per night on a hostel, while a mid-range hotel may cost around $50-100 per night. Luxury hotels can range from $150-300 per night or more.

Food and Drink: Food and drink costs in Turkey can vary depending on where you eat and what you order. Street food and local cafes can be very affordable, with meals ranging from $3-10 per person. Mid-range restaurants can cost around $20-30 per person, while high-end restaurants can cost $50 or more per person. Alcohol prices can vary widely, with a beer or glass of wine costing anywhere from $2-10 or more depending on the location.

Transportation: Renting a car in Turkey can be a cost-effective way to travel around the country, with prices ranging from $25-50 per day depending on the type of car and rental company. Gas prices in Turkey are relatively high, with a liter of petrol costing around $1.50 or more. Public transportation options, including buses and trains, are also available and can be more affordable.

Attractions and Activities: Turkey is home to many historical sites and natural attractions, many of which charge admission fees. Admission prices can vary widely, with prices ranging from $5-20 or more depending on the attraction. Activities like hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia or boat tours in Istanbul can cost more.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $30-50 per day in Turkey, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $70-100 per day. High-end travelers can expect to spend $150 or more per day. Keep in mind that prices can vary widely depending on your travel style and itinerary, so it's a good idea to research costs in advance and budget accordingly.

There are several guidebooks and road maps available for road trips in Turkey. Here are a few recommended options:

• Lonely Planet Turkey: This comprehensive guidebook covers all of Turkey's top attractions, including historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. It also includes practical information on transportation, accommodation, and dining options.

• Turkey Road Atlas: This detailed road atlas covers all of Turkey's major highways and secondary roads, with detailed maps of major cities and tourist regions. It also includes information on distances, road conditions, and landmarks along the way.

• Turkey Insight Guide: This guidebook offers in-depth coverage of Turkey's history, culture, and traditions, as well as practical information for travelers. It includes detailed information on major cities and regions, as well as recommended driving routes and attractions.

• Turkey Michelin Map: This detailed map covers all of Turkey's major roads and highways, with information on scenic routes, historical sites, and natural attractions. It also includes helpful tips for travelers, such as recommended driving speeds and distances between major cities.

• Turkey Eyewitness Travel Guide: This guidebook offers a visual approach to travel in Turkey, with detailed illustrations, photographs, and maps. It covers all of Turkey's major tourist destinations, as well as practical information on transportation, accommodations, and dining options.

By using these guidebooks and road maps, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Turkey, with all the necessary information at your fingertips.