One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Konya traveling north to Ankara, Kocaeli, Istanbul, and Eskişehir

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

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Konya. Begin your sightseeing with Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden. This interesting butterfly garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Ecdat Parkı, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Konya, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Kyoto Japanese Park. This popular park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Konya Science Center, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Livorno Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Filikos Restoran offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ankara.

Continue your lively evening at The Muddy Waters, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Nil Rock Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Always Rock Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Altındağ, Çankaya, and Ankara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kocaeli. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Haci Bayram Mosque, a prime spot to begin your journey. This inviting mosque is sure to impress. Next on your list is Ankara Castle, another must-visit landmark and notable castle renowned for its gorgeous features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Ankara by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kuğulu Park. This instagrammable park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Ankara experience. We also recommend visiting Anıtkabir, an iconic monument.

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 explore more of Kocaeli, 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 delightful dinner at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, highly recommended for tonight's dining.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul and Fatih, 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 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Kocaeli, including a palace, a park, a market, a mosque and much more! Start your day with a visit to Topkapı Palace. This extraordinary palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Gülhane Park, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Kocaeli 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 Spice Bazaar, an iconic market in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Süleymaniye Mosque and Grand Bazaar.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Istanbul for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Istanbul and Eyüpsultan.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the extraordinary Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a historic mosque in Istanbul. Next, go to Basilica Cistern.

After visiting Sultan Ahmed Mosque and Basilica Cistern, have a stroll along Istanbul's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hagia Sophia. This historic mosque offers a unique experience. Eyüp Sultan Mosque is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 meal at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Divella Bistro Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Reggae Br Shot & Food. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Just Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 Eskişehir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the world-famous Galata Tower, a romantic observation deck in Istanbul. Next, go to Dolmabahçe Palace.

After visiting Galata Tower and Dolmabahçe Palace, have a stroll along Istanbul's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This respected mosque offers a unique experience. Yıldız Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Eskişehir. 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 meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Oda Restoran is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Eskişehir tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 7 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 Eskişehir, Tepebaşı, Odunpazarı, and Kanlıpınar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Konya, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Eskişehir includes a park, an aviation museum, and a war memorial. Dede Korkut Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, a worthwhile aviation museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, an eye-catching park, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Konya. Konya 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 Konya. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Tost Merkezi | Toast Center, a top-rated dining spot in Konya. If you're in the mood for something new, try BallıBaba Izgara&kebab, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konya Saltanat Etliekmek. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Konya.

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.