6-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Sakarya and Bursa

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Istanbul by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Istanbul is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Hagia Sophia, a wondrous mosque that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Basilica Cistern, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Sultanahmet Square. This public square is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Istanbul at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

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.

Visit Grand Bazaar in Istanbul for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Grand Bazaar has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Istanbul by reserving a table at Calipso Fish. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Arkestra, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Reggae Br Shot & Food, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Just Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

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

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in Istanbul. Begin your sightseeing with Grand Bazaar. This globally renowned market is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Süleymaniye Mosque, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Istanbul, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Spice Bazaar. This iconic market is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Topkapı Palace, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Galata Tower 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 Sakarya. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Sakarya, 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.

Dine in style at Hakiki Rumeli Koftecisi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kebapcibey boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Head back to your accommodation in Sakarya and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

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 Bursa. 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.

Today’s itinerary in Sakarya covers several incredible sights, including a historical landmark, a mosque, a market, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. This interesting historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Bursa Grand Mosque, a must-see mosque in the city.

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 Koza Han. This notable market offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Heykel, where you can take in standout features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Abidin Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at My Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bursa. Cemil is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!