9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Istanbul, Eskişehir, and Pamukkale and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bursa for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Bursa on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Sultan's Mansion Museum is the first of them. Bursa City Museum is your next stop. This up-and-coming museum is one of the best-rated sights in Bursa.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Heykel. This history-steeped public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Bursa Grand Mosque and Koza Han. If time allows, end your day with Emir Sultan Mosque, a historic mosque that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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

Bring home unique finds from Bursa's bustling shopping hub, Zafer Plaza. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Zafer Plaza offers plenty of options, including a cinema, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Labelle Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Kule Pub, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 3 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 Beyoğlu, Istanbul, and Fatih. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Start your adventure at Galata Bridge. This interesting bascule bridge is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Spice Bazaar located in Bursa for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Süleymaniye Mosque. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the mosque, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Grand Bazaar. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this market. Next up is Basilica Cistern, a highly recommended archeological site. For a change of pace, head to Hagia Sophia. As one of the most world-famous attractions in Bursa, this mosque is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Salute Pub & Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Erhan Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Istanbul.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Istanbul for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Beyoğlu, Üsküdar, and Istanbul.

Beyoğlu is a fantastic place you can explore today in Beyoğlu. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Beyoğlu-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out İstiklal Avenue, a street offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Galata Tower. This world-famous observation deck is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Ortaköy Square, one of the most well-known places to see in Istanbul. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rumeli Fortress. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this castle offers.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Istanbul.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mitani Cafe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Divella Bistro Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Mivan Restaurant & Cafe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Istanbul.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Reggae Br Shot & Food. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Just Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Istanbul and Eyüpsultan. You still have 1 night left in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Istanbul, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Istanbul. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Sultanahmet Square is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most popular places to visit in Istanbul. Next, head to Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a widely recognized mosque, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Topkapı Palace. This breathtaking palace is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Gülhane Park and Eyüp Sultan Mosque. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Istanbul and your accommodation.

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 city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pierre Loti Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Tepebaşı, Odunpazarı, and Eskişehir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Eskişehir, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Istanbul. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a zoo, a museum, an aviation museum, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This is a curiosity-inducing zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Eskişehir Etİ Archaeological Museum, an up-and-coming museum in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Dede Korkut Park, another of the town’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island, a peaceful place of interest in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Eskişehir. 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 Eskişehir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Oda Restoran boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Tatlıdil Köftecisi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Eskişehir.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Pamukkale, 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 Pamukkale. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Eskişehir covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a museum, and a geothermal field. Start your adventure at Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This intriguing archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Pamukkale Theatre, a must-see archeological site in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Travertines Of Pamukkale, where you can take in UNESCO world heritage-designated features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Traverten Pide, a top-rated dining destination in Pamukkale. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Seven Spices İndian restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pamukkale this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Marina Clup, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 1 vibrant destinations - Kütahya. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Kütahya Ulu Camii. This intriguing mosque is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Çini Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Kossuth Museum (hungarian House), one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Pamukkale. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Kütahya Castle. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this castle offers. Then, head to Kütahya Meydan Camii, a top-rated mosque that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fayton Kafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Titiz Izgara? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bursa.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!