Relaxed 7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul to Bolu
Description
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Description
Explore Turkey and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Bolu. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Turkey at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Bolu. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Istanbul and 3 nights in Bolu. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Turkey.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Turkey. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Istanbul, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Turkey and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Turkey with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Turkey.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Turkey. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Galata Tower. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Spice Bazaar.
Traveling leisurely through Turkey means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Grand Bazaar. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Hagia Sophia. Get close to the spectacular Topkapı Palace and the wonderful Basilica Cistern. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Turkey's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Turkey.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Turkey. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Turkey's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Turkey.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Turkey. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Turkey. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Turkey and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Turkey today!
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Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Istanbul - Arrival day
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- Gülhane Park
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Your relaxed road trip through Turkey starts when you reach the incredible city of Istanbul, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Istanbul and begin your adventure in Turkey.
Istanbul is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Gülhane Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. 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 Istanbul. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Istanbul, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Salute Pub & Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Erhan Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Turkey.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Malt Bar Gayrettepe is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Rounder's Irish Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Turkey. Enjoy your first taste of Istanbul as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Istanbul
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Drive 6 km, 1 hour 3 min
- Topkapı Palace
- Hagia Sophia
- Basilica Cistern
- Süleymaniye Mosque
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Turkey means 24 hours of making the best memories in Istanbul. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Istanbul. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Istanbul!
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Istanbul on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Topkapı Palace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this respected palace before continuing your journey. Hagia Sophia is your next stop. This timeless mosque is one of the best-rated sights in Istanbul.
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 Basilica Cistern. This heritage-rich archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Süleymaniye Mosque.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Turkey more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Istanbul offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Istanbul, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Arkestra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Reggae Br Shot & Food is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Just Bar, offering a different kind of charm.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Turkey!
Day 3
- Istanbul
- Bolu
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Drive 262 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Grand Bazaar
- Galata Tower
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Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Turkey is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Istanbul and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Beyoğlu and the city of Bolu. You’ll stay in Bolu for 3 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Istanbul. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Grand Bazaar is the perfect place to start. This market is one of the most iconic places to visit in Istanbul. Next, head to Galata Tower, a wondrous observation deck, known for its history-steeped features.
Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bolu. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Turkey by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bolu has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at ANTEP SOFRASI, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hanımeli Yemek Salonu? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kubbealti as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bolu.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Turkey!
Day 4
- Bolu
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Drive 50 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Akkaya Travertenleri
- Atatürk Orman Park
- Golcuk Nature Park
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On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Turkey, you’ll go deep into Bolu, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bolu, and meet locals along the way!
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the increasingly popular Akkaya Travertenleri, an eye-catching rock formation in Bolu. Next, go to Atatürk Orman Park.
After visiting Akkaya Travertenleri and Atatürk Orman Park, have a stroll along Bolu's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Golcuk Nature Park. This instagrammable park offers a unique experience.
Turkey makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Turkey also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bolu has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, a popular restaurant in Bolu. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bolu at Oklava, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bolu Hanzade Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bolu tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bolu’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Turkey.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Turkey!
Day 5
- Bolu
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Drive 85 km, 2 hours 15 min
- Kapankaya seyir terası
- Yedigöller National Park
- Yedigöller Waterfall
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bolu, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Turkey are extraordinary.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Kapankaya Seyir Terası. This intriguing observation deck is an eye-catching place to see in Bolu. Continue your discovery at Yedigöller National Park, an eye-catching national park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Bolu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this region so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Yedigöller Waterfall. This worthwhile waterfall offers a romantic encounter with Bolu. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bolu.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Turkey by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bolu. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bolu that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Turkey more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the region of Bolu to find the best options for you!
Exploring the food culture in Bolu offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, a highly-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri), another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Turkey!
Day 6
- Bolu
- Istanbul
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Yukarı Taşhan
- Beyazıt Cami
- Orta Hamam
- Kadı Mosque
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Turkey promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Bolu and drive in the direction of the city of Istanbul for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Istanbul, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Upper Stone Inn. Continue your discovery at Beyazıt Cami, a culturally significant mosque with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Bolu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Orta Hamam. This often recommended spa offers a romantic encounter with Bolu. Next, make your way to Kadı Mosque to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bolu.
In the city of Istanbul, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Turkey.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Turkey, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Istanbul and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Turkey!
Day 7
- Istanbul - Departure day
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- Spice Bazaar
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Turkey is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Istanbul.
Maximize your last day in Turkey and go on a shopping spree in Istanbul’s shopping center, the lively Grand Bazaar. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Turkey.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Spice Bazaar. This world-famous market is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Istanbul or just grab something light to keep you going.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ulus 29, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Resto Han is another top choice with a popular menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Istanbul and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Turkey is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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