11-Day Turkey road trip from Ankara to Eskişehir, Bursa, Istanbul, and Bolu

Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Ankara and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Ankara for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the region.

Ankara is a beautiful region with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Ankara. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ankara. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Reserve your spot at Bogazici Lokantasi, a popular local restaurant in Ankara. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,361 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri during your stay in Ankara. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,773 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, a popular local gem in Ankara. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 655 satisfied guests.

When you’ve finished your meal and an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit The Soul Pub, one of the best bars in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,729 customers, and is the perfect complement to your refreshing weekend getaway experience in Turkey.

If you would like to try another place, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another great option that serves a variety of drinks. Considered one of the most popular bars in Ankara, this bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,078 customers.

O Ses Sensin - Karaoke is also a great bar where you can have nice chats with locals and fellow travelers in the area. O Ses Sensin - Karaoke has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 910 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Turkey!

Day 2 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Ankara. You have 1 night left in Ankara. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Ankara's best restaurants.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in MARTI RESTAURANT, a distinguished dining establishment in Ankara. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 620 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Ankara is Altı Üstü Bar. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 537 happy diners.

Fevzi Hoca Balık Lokantası stands out as a local favorite in Ankara. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 3,895 customers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Nil Rock Bar, one of the best bars in the region. Nil Rock Bar is an excellent place to have a refreshing evening drink after exploring Ankara. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 902 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at The Muddy Waters. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 694 customers.

Zaytung Zone also belongs to the list of the best bars in Ankara, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,395 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in Ankara and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Ankara, Sincan, Keçiören, and Eskişehir, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Eskişehir. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Beştepe Millet Camii. This extraordinary mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 7,368 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ankara and set your GPS to Eskişehir. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 38 min. Upon reaching Eskişehir, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Eskişehir. Eskişehir offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Eskişehir. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nazar Kebap, an iconic dining spot in Eskişehir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,206 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Tatlıdil Köftecisi while in Eskişehir. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,097 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of PİNO, a favorite in Eskişehir. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 643 discerning guests.

We recommend Varuna Gezgin Cafe - Eskişehir - Kantin for many reasons. But most importantly, this bar serves a variety of food and beverages and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,752 reviews.

You can also visit a popular bar like Varuna Memphis to have refreshing drinks and interact with locals and other travelers. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,291 bar-goers.

When you would rather go somewhere else, try Dublin Cafe & Irish Pub. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,799 customers, this bar is one of Eskişehir’s best places to relax after a long day.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, and Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Eskişehir, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bursa. Your travel time is around 2 hours 6 min.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bursa, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the region.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bursa's best restaurants.

Make a reservation at Kebapçı Hüseyin Usta, a popular dining spot in Bursa. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,308 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte while indulging in the charm of Bursa. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, cherished by 3,249 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Bursa Kebapcisi, a treasured establishment in Bursa. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,329 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the region, Tabipler Lokali. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 653 reviews and guarantees you a great time.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to a popular bar like Kitap Evi Otel. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,257 customers.

The options in Bursa don’t end there, you could also spend some time at the excellent Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 834 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

Say good night to Bursa and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Bursa, Istanbul, and Istanbul. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul. Istanbul will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Koza Han. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,333 visitors.

Grand Mosque of Bursa is another popular attraction you could visit today. This mosque has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 39,387 visitors.

İnkaya Historical Plane Tree is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 24,675 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Istanbul. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Istanbul, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Istanbul.

Do not miss out on an incredible dining experience at Calipso Fish, one of the finest upscale restaurants in Istanbul. Featuring delightful food options and seafood offerings, Calipso Fish has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than Sankai by Nagaya. This food haven in Istanbul has been awarded 1 Michelin stars. Featuring japanese contemporary cuisine, this well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at Arkestra. This celebrated dining spot in Istanbul is renowned for its sumptuous meals and fusion menu. Countless patrons sing this restaurant's praises, adding to its 1 Michelin-star prestige.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Istanbul, Arch Bistro. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 798 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend Harab'be Cafe. This bar has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 2,610 customers.

Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,447 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Beyoğlu has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Beyoğlu by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Beyoğlu on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Istanbul. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Book a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a famous dining establishment in Istanbul. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,112 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Istanbul is Divella Bistro Restaurant, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.8 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 1,711 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Istanbul’s Turkish Cuisine for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,399 satisfied diners.

If you’re up for getting a drink after dinner, Last Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant is a great place to go. Around 1,647 customers have rated this popular bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Red River Pub has an atmosphere and drink selection that guests especially enjoy. Red River Pub has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,343 reviews and is considered one of the best you can experience in the region.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop. If this is where the night will take you, you’re in for a fun time in Istanbul. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 874 customers.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Istanbul.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at İstanbul kebab cafe & restaurant while you’re in Istanbul. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,220 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Istanbul is Byzantion Bistro Restaurant. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,165 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Istanbul, enjoy Gulhane Sark Sofrasi’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,078 satisfied guests.

BrusQ Bar & Hookah Lounge is one of the best bars you can visit in Istanbul tonight. This bar is rated an average of 5 out of 5 stars by 712 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Cafe Amedros. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 737 customers.

Alternatively, try Just Bar. Just Bar is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the region. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 557 customers.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Üsküdar, Fatih, and Bolu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bolu. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bolu, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Istanbul to Bolu may take around 2 hours 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bolu. Bolu offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bolu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Reserve your spot at Yorem Manti Unlu Mamuller, a popular local restaurant in Bolu. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 2,926 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Bolu Hanzade Restaurant during your stay in Bolu. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,298 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Kasri Kebap Bolu, a popular local gem in Bolu. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 933 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit Karpalas City Hotel & Spa, which is considered one of the best bars in the region of Bolu. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,485 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Kaybedenler Kulübü Meyhane Bolu. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 128 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bolu. You’ll stay in Bolu for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Bolu has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Bolu offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bolu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make a reservation at Oklava, a popular dining spot in Bolu. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 913 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at GRAND KEBAP BOLU while indulging in the charm of Bolu. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, cherished by 609 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Kazancım Hizmet Etli Ekmek, a treasured establishment in Bolu. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,436 satisfied guests.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a day, pop into Bolu Gardenya Restaurant. This bar is considered one of the best in Bolu and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 382 customers.

You may also want to check out Kartaltepe Boutique Hotel. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Kartaltepe Boutique Hotel is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 340 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 10 of your road trip in Turkey, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Ankara and Ankara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ankara. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Ankara, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the region.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ankara. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to book a table at ANKA GAME CENTER & INTERNET CAFE, a popular restaurant in Ankara. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,225 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Afganistan Sofrası during your stay in Ankara. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 241 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of New Park Hotel, a renowned dining destination in Ankara. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.2 out of 5-star rating from 3,581 satisfied guests.

If you're looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Always Rock Bar, claiming it's one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 619 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Nedjima Cafe & Bistro. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 463 customers.

On An On Rock Cafe is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 344 customers.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 11 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ankara before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Turkey unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Ankara’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the region’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Turkey.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Ankara.

You’ll then say farewell to Ankara. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!