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

On day 2 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 Istanbul. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, including a market, an archeological site, a mosque, a palace and much more! Start your day with a visit to Grand Bazaar. This wondrous market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Basilica Cistern, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Istanbul 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 Hagia Sophia, a globally renowned mosque in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Topkapı Palace.

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.

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 Kitap Evi Otel, 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 Tabipler Lokali, 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 Abidin Usta, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like My Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cemil offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 1 destination, Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Eskişehir, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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

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 Koza Han. This visually striking market is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit İnkaya Historical Plane Tree and Emir Sultan Mosque.

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.

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

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the often recommended Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island, a mesmerizing park in Eskişehir. Next, go to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Aydın Arat Park.

After visiting Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island and Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Aydın Arat Park, have a stroll along Eskişehir's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This eye-catching aviation museum offers a unique experience. Dede Korkut Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Eskişehir.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ada Life Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Muhtelif Eskişehir, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at PİNO. 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Odunpazarı. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ankara, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Eskişehir’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eskişehir Etİ Archaeological Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Museum Of Independence, Eskişehir, a must-visit museum in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Eskişehir Odunpazarı Evleri, a locally appreciated historical landmark. For a change of scene, check out Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, known for its idyllic features.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Filikos Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Muddy Waters. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Nil Rock Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Always Rock Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Bolu, 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.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Ankara. Begin your sightseeing with Upper Stone Inn. This increasingly popular sightseeing destination is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Beyazıt Cami, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Ankara, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Orta Hamam. This underrated spa is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Atatürk Orman Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!