Istanbul to Izmir

Start in Istanbul. Head south on the O 5 motorway, the TEM. Follow it for about 150 kilometers. Then take the interchange for the O 7. This main highway crosses the Gulf of Izmit via the Osmangazi Bridge. It is a toll bridge. After crossing, continue on the O 7. This becomes a well-maintained motorway running south. It passes industrial areas around Bursa. Then it opens into agricultural plains. The drive from the bridge to the Ephesus turnoff takes roughly three hours. Exit the O 7 near Selcuk to visit Ephesus. Signage is clear. The final leg to Izmir is straightforward. Take the D 550 highway west for about an hour. Traffic can be heavy leaving Istanbul. This is true on weekday mornings. It can also be heavy around Bursa. Roads are generally in good condition. Driving is not difficult. The Osmangazi Bridge can be subject to high winds. Be ready for tolls on the O 5 and O 7 motorways.

The primary waypoint is Ephesus. It is located near the modern town of Selcuk. Ephesus is an extensive archaeological site. It was a major Roman port city. Allocate at least three to four hours here. Key sights include the intact facade of the Library of Celsus. See the grand Theatre. It could seat 25,000. Explore the Terrace Houses with their mosaics. Walk the Marble Street. Wear sturdy walking shoes. The terrain is uneven. In Selcuk, find local eateries. They serve regional dishes like kofte meatballs. Try stuffed vegetables. It is a good spot for a meal. The Sirince village is a short drive into the hills. It is known for fruit wines. It has a quieter alternative. Gas stations are available along the O 7 motorway. They are also in Selcuk. Fill up before leaving the main highway for Ephesus.

Avoid Istanbul's traffic. Depart very early in the morning. Alternatively, leave after the morning rush subsides, around 10 a.m. Check the weather forecast. Rain in spring and autumn can make marble paths at Ephesus slippery. Driving in Turkey is generally safe on main highways. Be observant of varying driving styles. Cell phone coverage is reliable along motorways and in towns. It may become patchy in some rural valleys between cities. Ephesus has a large paid parking lot near the main entrance. In Izmir, street parking in the city center can be challenging. Look for designated parking garages or lots. Have some local currency. It is useful for parking fees, small vendors, and tolls.

Spring and autumn are ideal. March through May brings comfortable temperatures. You will see blooming wildflowers. There are fewer visitors than in summer. September to November offers similarly pleasant weather. See the harvest in the agricultural regions. Summer months can be extremely hot. July and August are worst. Extensive walking at sites like Ephesus becomes less enjoyable. Roads are busier. Winter is milder here than in much of Turkey. It can be rainy. No major festivals are directly on the route during prime travel seasons. This timing avoids peak crowds. It makes for a more relaxed exploration of Ephesus and other historical stops.