4-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Kocaeli

On day 2 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 Istanbul. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kocaeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Istanbul. Your adventure starts at Grand Bazaar, a globally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Spice Bazaar. This globally renowned market is known for its heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Istanbul's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Gülhane Park. This standout park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Topkapı Palace is also worth visiting, along with Hagia Sophia. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kocaeli. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kocaeli. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, an iconic dining spot in Kocaeli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Mudanya and Bursa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Kocaeli allows for both. Start by heading to Mudanya Armistice House. This frequently visited museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Emir Sultan Mosque, a picture-perfect mosque, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Green Tomb, a worthwhile monument.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Reggae Br Shot & Food, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Just Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Istanbul.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Turkey.