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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Beyoğlu and 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 Istanbul. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bursa, including an observation deck, a park, a mosque, an archeological site and much more! Start your day at Galata Tower. This history-steeped observation deck is a wondrous place to see in Bursa. Then, wander over to Gülhane Park. If enchanting sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Hagia Sophia. This historic mosque is a favorite among visitors.

Bursa offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Basilica Cistern is a widely recognized spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Malt Bar Gayrettepe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Rounder's Irish Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 3 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Istanbul for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Istanbul and Eyüpsultan to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Sultanahmet is a fantastic place you can explore today in Istanbul. 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 Istanbul-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Topkapı Palace, an extraordinary palace in the city. Then, head to Sultan Ahmed Mosque and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking mosque.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul, and when you are ready for more, go to Sultanahmet Square. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the timeless Grand Bazaar. Not far away, you'll also find Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This mosque is a symbolic highlight in Istanbul.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mitani Cafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Divella Bistro Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

Continue your lively evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Just Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Spice Bazaar, a heritage-rich market that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Galata Bridge, one of the town’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the spectacular Dolmabahçe Palace. When you're finished at the palace, Yıldız Park awaits your visit. This park is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a mosque - the locally renowned Büyük Mecidiye Mosque.

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

As you explore more of Istanbul, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Pierre Loti Hotel, 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 By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.

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 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 Karacaşehir, Eskişehir, Tepebaşı, and Odunpazarı. In the evening, you’ll end up in Eskişehir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Istanbul. Your adventure starts at Odunpazarı Botanik Park, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Dede Korkut Park. This beloved park is known for its romantic 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 Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This instagrammable aviation museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark is also worth visiting, along with Alaeddin 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 explore more of Eskişehir, 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 Ciğerci Ahmet, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Oda Restoran offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tatlıdil Köftecisi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Eskişehir.

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.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kütahya and Çavdarhisar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Eskişehir on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Tatvacilar Mosque is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this inviting mosque before continuing your journey. Kütahya Ulu Camii is your next stop. This intriguing mosque is one of the best-rated sights in Eskişehir.

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 Kütahya Castle. This visually striking castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Aizanoi and Aizanoi - Temple Of Zeus.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a highly-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're eager to try something different, consider TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Labelle Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kule Pub is another popular option for a drink or two.

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