7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling east to Bursa, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Kocaeli

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul, 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 Bursa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Grand Bazaar. This world-famous market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Basilica Cistern, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Hagia Sophia, one of the most wondrous places to see in Istanbul. This mosque is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Topkapı Palace. Wander around and soak in the UNESCO world heritage-designated atmosphere this palace offers.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bursa. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Abidin Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Continue your lively evening at My Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cemil ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bursa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Eskişehir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Bursa. Your adventure starts at Heykel, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bursa Grand Mosque. This captivating mosque is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bursa's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Koza Han. This historic market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. İnkaya Historical Plane Tree is also worth visiting, along with Emir Sultan Mosque. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Eskişehir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ciğerci Ahmet, an iconic dining spot in Eskişehir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oda Restoran, a popular restaurant in Eskişehir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Tatlıdil Köftecisi, a hidden gem nestled in Eskişehir. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Eskişehir, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Dede Korkut Park, an intriguing park in the city. Then, head to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable zoo.

There are many interesting places to see in Eskişehir, and when you are ready for more, go to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the aviation museum, visit the notable Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Filikos Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Muddy Waters, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Nil Rock Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Always Rock Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

On day 5 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 Afşar and Bolu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kocaeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Ankara, including a nature reserve, a mosque, a spa, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Religious Forest. This underrated nature reserve is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Beyazıt Cami, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Ankara on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Orta Hamam, an intriguing spa in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Atatürk Orman Park.

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.

As you explore more of Kocaeli, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!