Planning November 25 trip to visit IST then fly to Capp. Then fly to Izmir (via IST prefer direct but can’t find) for visiting Kusadasi, Ephesus, and Denizli area. Is it easy and “safe” and recommended by previous travelers to rent car and self drive while in Capp. How would you compare driving in Turkey (not inside cities) to a US experience I likely have experience with? And again Izmir circle to Denizli. Anything we should be careful for like restricted zones (once received ticket in Italy) etc. We want to avoid any pitfalls but would like the freedom of self driving. Thank you!
Posted by
Atlanta, GA
900 posts
I rented a car a couple of years ago and did a loop from Antalya to Aphrodisias, Pamukkale/Denizli, Sagalassos, and Burdur. I was a little nervous at first because I had never driven outside the US, but I had no issues. The roads, even the rural roads, were in good condition. Drivers were sane -- much more sane than in Atlanta. Antalya and Denizli were easier to drive through than I anticipated. Downtown Burdur was congested because it wasn't designed for cars, and I was glad to get back on the main highway. I didn't have any issues with restricted zones on my route. All the places I visited except for Burdur had ample parking.
I recall from a previous trip that Friday afternoon traffic in Izmir is nuts. Fortunately, I was on a bus and not driving on that trip.
Posted by
Surrey, UK
637 posts
I remember the answer to "what side of the road do they drive in Turkey" give as "the shady side".
Posted by
NC
678 posts
We flew into Kayseri, rented a car there and enjoyed touring Cappadocia independently — easily and safely. The only unnerving thing we encountered was a pack of wild dogs in the countryside that loudly chased, and rammed themselves into, the car. But no harm done…LOL.
Have a great trip! Cappadocia is amazing!