One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Izmir traveling north to Bursa, Istanbul, and Kocaeli

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Izmir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Start your day with a visit to Konak Square. This underrated square is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Clock Tower Of İzmir, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Izmir 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 Kemeraltı, a popular market in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hisar Mosque and Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Chaos Cafe Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Tattoo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Dinosaur Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Izmir, Foça, and Bergama. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Izmir. Your adventure starts at Dolphins Statue, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Izmir's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Old Foca Coast. This standout beach offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Red Basilica is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tabipler Lokali, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Abidin Usta. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at My Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cemil. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Istanbul. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bursa, including a market, a park, and a mosque. Start your day at Spice Bazaar. This visually striking market is a timeless place to see in Bursa. Then, wander over to Gülhane Park. If visually striking sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This stunning 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, Hagia Sophia is a world-famous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the mosque, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Grand Bazaar. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this timeless market.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Calipso Fish offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Sankai by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Arkestra, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional fusion menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Malt Bar Gayrettepe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Rounder's Irish Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Istanbul, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Galata Tower, a romantic observation deck that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, one of the town’s most impressive spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Galata Bridge. When you're finished at the bascule bridge, Maiden's Tower awaits your visit. This lighthouse is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

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 delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Üsküdar, 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 Kocaeli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Dolmabahçe Palace, an astonishing palace in the town. Then, head to Naval Museum and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul, and when you are ready for more, go to Ortaköy Square. This is one of the town’s most interesting respected spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the well-known Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Not far away, you'll also find Yıldız Park. This park is an eye-catching highlight in Istanbul.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a popular restaurant in Kocaeli. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

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.