9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa traveling east to Eskişehir, Ankara, Kocaeli, and Istanbul
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Turkey. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bursa, 1 night in Eskişehir, 2 nights in Ankara, 1 night in Kocaeli, and 2 nights in Istanbul. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bursa, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Galata Tower and Spice Bazaar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Grand Bazaar, learn more about the unique Hagia Sophia, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Anıtkabir.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bursa, Osmangazi, Eskişehir, Altındağ, Ankara, Çankaya, Bolu, Kocaeli, Eyüpsultan, Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.
Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!
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Day 1
- Bursa - Arrival day
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- İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Bursa and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bursa for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Bursa 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 İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bursa. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Bursa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Kitap Evi Otel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tabipler Lokali beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Abidin Usta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting My Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cemil also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Bursa
- Eskisehir
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Drive 173 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Koza Han
- Han Brass
- Karagoz Museum
- Abdal Bridge
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Bursa and Osmangazi, 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 Eskişehir. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Bursa. Begin your sightseeing with Bursa Grand Mosque. This locally renowned mosque is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Koza Han, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bursa, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Han Brass. This frequently visited sightseeing destination is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Karagoz Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Abdal Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Eskişehir's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated dining destination in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Oda Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Eskişehir this evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!
Day 3
- Eskisehir
- Ankara
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Drive 244 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Haci Bayram Mosque
- Ulucanlar Prison Museum
- Ankara Castle
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Eskişehir promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Haci Bayram Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Ulucanlar Prison Museum, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ankara Castle, one of the town’s most captivating attractions, known for its standout features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This heritage-rich museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Ankara, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Filikos Restoran is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ankara tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Muddy Waters, known for its lively atmosphere. Nil Rock Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Always Rock Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!
Day 4
- Ankara
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Seğmenler Parkı
- Kuğulu Park
- Independence Park
- Anıtkabir
- MTA Sehit Cuma Dag Natural History Museum
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On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ankara for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Çankaya, Altındağ, and Ankara to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Ankara on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Seğmenler Parkı is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing park before continuing your journey. Kuğulu Park is your next stop. This locally renowned park is one of the best-rated sights in Ankara.
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 Independence Park. This breathtaking park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Anıtkabir and Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Ankara and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Ankara, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at MARTI RESTAURANT, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Golden Pavilion Museum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Afganistan Sofrası. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ankara.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, On An On Rock Cafe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, London Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Ankara
- Kocaeli
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Drive 352 km, 4 hours 9 min
- Beştepe Millet Camii
- Yukarı Taşhan
- Beyazıt Cami
- Orta Hamam
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ankara and Bolu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kocaeli, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Continue your journey to Beyazıt Cami, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Orta Hamam.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kocaeli. Kocaeli 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 Kocaeli. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated dining spot in Kocaeli.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 6
- Kocaeli
- Istanbul
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Drive 116 km, 2 hours 36 min
- Eyüp Sultan Mosque
- Gülhane Park
- Spice Bazaar
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
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On day 6 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 Eyüpsultan, Istanbul, and Fatih. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Start by visiting Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking mosque is sure to impress. Next on your list is Gülhane Park, another must-visit landmark and extraordinary park renowned for its visually striking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Kocaeli by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Spice Bazaar. This heritage-rich market is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Kocaeli experience. We also recommend visiting Süleymaniye Mosque, a spectacular mosque. Nearby, you'll also find Grand Bazaar, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Istanbul. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Istanbul's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Begin your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Keep the evening going at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Rounder's Irish Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Istanbul and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 7
- Istanbul
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Drive 5 km, 44 min
- Sultanahmet Square
- Basilica Cistern
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapı Palace
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sultanahmet Square. This culturally significant public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Basilica Cistern, a must-visit archeological site in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Hagia Sophia, an iconic mosque. For a change of scene, check out Topkapı Palace, known for its historic features.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mitani Cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Divella Bistro Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Just Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 8
- Istanbul
- Bursa
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Drive 163 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Galata Tower
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque)
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Beyoğlu and Üsküdar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Istanbul. Your adventure starts at Galata Tower, a wondrous local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Dolmabahçe Palace. This top-rated palace is known for its history-steeped 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 Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This breathtaking mosque offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bursa, 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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, an iconic dining spot in Bursa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of TANDIR'AZ BURSA, a popular restaurant in Bursa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Labelle Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kule Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Bursa - Departure day
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- Heykel
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Day 9 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bursa before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Heykel, a photogenic public square before you head out.
On your last day in Turkey, take time to indulge in shopping at Bursa’s popular marketplace, Zafer Plaza. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bursa.
Dine in style at Fayton Kafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Titiz Izgara boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Bursa. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!
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