Road Tripping in Türkiye: Exploring the Best Routes

From its mountains to its beaches, from its forests to its historical ruins, Türkiye harbors many riches. For those who like to travel long distances by car, there are many routes in Turkey that offer unique landscapes. All 7 geographical regions of Türkiye are waiting for you to explore, where road quality, rest stops and other travel opportunities are improving day by day. Let's take a look at the long-distance routes that will make you feel like paradise.Çanakkale - Balıkesir - İzmir - Aydın route, one of the closest routes to Istanbul, offers natural beauty as well as sea vacation opportunities and historical heritage. You can start from Gallipoli Martyrs' Cemetery and continue with the ancient cities of Troy and Assos. In Ayvalık, Devil's Table, Cunda (Alibey) Island and the beaches of Edremit Gulf await you. In addition, the local cuisine with a focus on olive oil and seafood is among the highlights of the Balıkesir leg of the route. After entering Izmir with the Ancient City of Bergama, Izmir Kordon and Clock Tower, Elevator, Historical Kemeraltı Bazaar and Ancient City of Ephesus are must-see spots in Izmir. After visiting Kuşadası Dilek Peninsula National Park, you can turn your route to Didim and immerse yourself in the blue waters of the Aegean. You will be accompanied by olive and pine trees, maquis trees, orchards and the sea from time to time along the Aegean route.The Black Sea is the first region that comes to mind when we think of scenery. We think it is quite logical and enjoyable to start this Central Black Sea route with a scenic breakfast by taking the Boztepe cable car in Ordu. Then you can continue on your way with Çambaşı Plateau and Cape Yason. Don't forget to watch the city from Amisos Hill in Samsun. In Sinop, Hamsilos Bay will mesmerize you, followed by Inaltı Cave and Erfelek Waterfalls. Kastamonu beaches, Cide and Inebolu also offer different beauties with their greenery and historical texture. In addition, Valla Canyon, Ilıca Waterfalls and the historical atmosphere in Kastamonu city center hide many beauties.The first stop on this route is Divriği Great Mosque, which is eye-catching with its architecture. Then you can visit Eğri Bridge and Sivas Gök Madrasa. You can also take a shopping and dining break in Kayseri city center. Yahyalı Kapuzbaşı Waterfall is also one of the natural stops to be visited. Maraş is next on the pleasant journey from Kayseri. Kahramanmaraş is waiting for you with its historical beauties and rich cuisine. You can end this route, which is full of history, with a delicious trip to Adıyaman, home to Mount Nemrut, where ancient statues from the Commagene Kingdom are located.If you want to live a winter fairy tale, Kars is waiting for you. After photographing historical examples of Russian architecture, you can take a sleigh ride on Çıldır Lake. In Ağrı, you should definitely see Ishak Pasha Palace. After taking a look at the city center of Ağrı, Van is next. While you are here, you cannot miss Lake Van. You can also see the Akdamar Church with a 20-minute boat ride on the lake. Muradiye Waterfalls, Bitlis city center, Nemrut crater lake and Tatvan are also among the most enjoyable stops of the trip.You can start this green and blue route from Trabzon Sümela Monastery. Speaking of scenery, you cannot miss Uzungöl. Then continue to Rize by following the coastal road and explore the plateau roads, especially Ayder plateau. Artvin Şavşat and Karagöl will be among the most enjoyable stops of the route.Welcome to Turkey's warmest region, both in climate and people. Enjoy the sun, sea and scenic roads in Bodrum, Marmaris and beyond. You can visit the ancient cities in the region. After a few hours, get ready for a short sea getaway in Side and Alanya. In Anamur, you can reach the Cennet and Cehennem sinkholes through banana and strawberry orchards. While the Maiden's Castle greets you on the way, head towards Mersin. When you continue on your way, you will be greeted by the smell of delicious kebabs and a cozy atmosphere in Adana.Start your journey in Eskişehir, the gateway to Central Anatolia. Take advantage of the museums, art centers, eating, drinking and shopping opportunities in Eskişehir city center. On the way, visit the hot springs region in Kütahya. Enjoy the rich cuisine in Afyon. At the last stop, Denizli Pamukkale, surrender yourself to nature by watching the natural wonder of travertines.This is a route of lakes. You can start your journey at Salda Lake and after enjoying the blue waters of the lake, you can stop for shish meatballs in Burdur. Afterwards, you can shop for rose cosmetics in Isparta and then move on to Lake Eğirdir, which offers breathtaking views. Beyşehir Lake will welcome you within the borders of Konya province. Then a trip full of history, spirituality and culture awaits you in Konya city center.