Route to İstanbul

İstanbul is one of the most established cities in the world with lands on two continents. There are also two different routes for those who rent cars in Istanbul and travel in the Aegean and Mediterranean (south) directions. You can find the fastest and shortest road in the navigation device. Other details you might want to know are in this post...


Route 1: Dardanelles Strait
On this route you first pass through Tekirdağ and then Edirne. Then you reach the European side of Çanakkale (Gallipoli) and cross to the opposite side by ferry. The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge to this strait is being constructed and is thought to open in 2023. Then you pass through the famous Mount Ida and follow the coastal Aegean and reach Izmir.
When should it be preferred?
- This route can be evaluated especially if you are located on the European side of Istanbul.
- You can also use this route, if you don't have time problem and want to enjoy the view.
- A highway that you have to pay for is not included in this route.
When should it not be preferred?
- If you want to get to the point you want quickly, the other route will save you time.
- There may be disruption to ferry services, especially during the winter months when there are strong winds.
- Also some dates (tourism intensity and holiday periods) may experience traffic jams.
- If you do not trust yourself when driving, you should not choose this route.
- If you are going to Antalya, this route will extend the road considerably.

Route 2: The Gulf of İzmit
You have three options on this route. You can go from Istanbul to Anatolia and pass the Osman Gazi Bridge from Gebze to the south. There are also ferry services to cross this gulf. Your other option is to stretch the road and circle the entire gulf. Whichever option you choose, your direction will be Yalova and then Orhangazi. Then you can reach Izmir by crossing Bursa, Balıkesir and Manisa. If you are going in the direction of Antalya, you should leave for Eskişehir after Bursa and drive to Antalya in the direction of Afyon and Burdur.
When should it be preferred?
- If your route is Mediterranean rather than Aegean, you can choose this route.
- This is the most reasonable route, especially if you are moving from central Istanbul or the Asian side.
When should it not be preferred?
- You may have to pay on more than one highway on this route. If you have a limited budget, you can use the ferry instead of crossing the bridge.

Destination: Antalya (and other Mediterranean cities)
If you are going to a Mediterranean city like Antalya, you can choose Route 2.

Destination: İzmir (and other Aegean cities)
Route 1 may be preferred if you are travelling from a point such as Istanbul Airport or Silivri. Route 2 can also be considered especially for the Southern Aegean (Bodrum, Fethiye, Marmaris).