9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Istanbul, Eskişehir, and Pamukkale and surrounding area
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Description
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 3 nights in Bursa, 3 nights in Istanbul, 1 night in Eskişehir, and 1 night in Pamukkale. 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 Topkapı Palace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bursa, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Fatih, Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, Tepebaşı, Odunpazarı, Eskişehir, Pamukkale, and Kütahya, 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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- Mehmet Abdal Tomb
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Welcome to Bursa, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Bursa's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Mehmet Abdal Tomb, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bursa. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bursa at Tabipler Lokali, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Abidin Usta. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bursa tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting My Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cemil also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Bursa
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Drive 10 km, 38 min
- Sultan's Mansion Museum
- Bursa City Museum
- Heykel
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Koza Han
- Emir Sultan Mosque
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bursa has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bursa by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bursa, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Sultan's Mansion Museum, a beloved museum in the city. Then, head to Bursa City Museum and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Bursa, and when you are ready for more, go to Heykel. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the locally renowned Bursa Grand Mosque. Not far away, you'll also find Koza Han. This market is a historic highlight in Bursa. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Emir Sultan Mosque, a captivating mosque in the city.
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.
Experience shopping bliss at Bursa as you explore Koza Hani. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Koza Hani offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bursa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a highly-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're eager to try something different, consider TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Labelle Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kule Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference.
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.
Day 3
- Bursa
- Istanbul
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Drive 163 km, 3 hours 8 min
- Galata Bridge
- Spice Bazaar
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Basilica Cistern
- Hagia Sophia
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Beyoğlu, Istanbul, and Fatih. 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 3 nights.
Today's adventure in Bursa promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Galata Bridge. Then, enjoy Spice Bazaar, another heritage-rich attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the town’s most top-rated attractions, known for its culturally significant features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Grand Bazaar. This photogenic market is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Basilica Cistern, a widely recognized archeological site, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Hagia Sophia before you head back to your hotel.
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.
Savor the flavors at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Salute Pub & Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Erhan Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Istanbul tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Malt Bar Gayrettepe after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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.
Day 4
- Istanbul
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Drive 40 km, 1 hour 27 min
- Galata Tower
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Ortaköy Square
- Rumeli Fortress
- İstiklal Avenue
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On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Istanbul for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Beyoğlu, Üsküdar, and Istanbul to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Beyoğlu is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Beyoğlu. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to İstiklal Avenue, a street offering its own unique experiences.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Istanbul, including an observation deck, a palace, a public square, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Galata Tower. This globally renowned observation deck is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Dolmabahçe Palace located in Istanbul for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Ortaköy Square. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Rumeli Fortress. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this castle.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Istanbul.
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.
Dine in style at Mitani Cafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Divella Bistro Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Reggae Br Shot & Food after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Just Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.
Day 5
- Istanbul
- More
Drive 19 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Sultanahmet Square
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Topkapı Palace
- Gülhane Park
- Eyüp Sultan Mosque
- Sultanahmet
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A top thing to do today is to explore Sultanahmet, a must-see neighborhood in Istanbul. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Sultanahmet Square. This well-known public square is a romantic place to see in Istanbul. Continue your discovery at Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a breathtaking mosque with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Istanbul, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Topkapı Palace. This widely recognized palace offers a picture-perfect encounter with Istanbul. Next, make your way to Gülhane Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a top-rated mosque that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Istanbul.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Istanbul and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Istanbul. 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 Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Pierre Loti Hotel, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Istanbul and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 6
- Istanbul
- Eskisehir
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Drive 319 km, 4 hours 28 min
- Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo
- Eskişehir ETİ Archaeological Museum
- Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Müzesi ve Teknoloji Parkı
- Dede Korkut Park
- Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Tepebaşı, Odunpazarı, and Eskişehir, 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.
Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Eskişehir Etİ Archaeological Museum, 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 Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, a beloved aviation museum. For a change of scene, check out Dede Korkut Park, known for its breathtaking features. We also recommend visiting Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Eskişehir. Eskişehir 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 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Ciğerci Ahmet, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Oda Restoran offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tatlıdil Köftecisi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Eskişehir.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!
Day 7
- Eskisehir
- Pamukkale
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Drive 349 km, 4 hours 47 min
- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Pamukkale Theatre
- Hierapolis Archaeology Museum
- Travertines of Pamukkale (thermal pools)
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Pamukkale. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pamukkale, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Eskişehir covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a museum, and a geothermal field. Start your adventure at Hierapolis Ancient Theater. This increasingly popular archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Pamukkale Theatre, a must-see archeological site in the village.
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 Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This underrated museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Travertines Of Pamukkale, where you can take in history-steeped features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Pamukkale, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pamukkale's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Traverten Pide, a top-rated dining destination in Pamukkale. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Seven Spices İndian restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pamukkale this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Marina Clup, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 8
- Pamukkale
- Bursa
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Drive 451 km, 6 hours 16 min
- Kütahya Ulu Camii
- Çini Museum
- Kossuth Museum (Hungarian House)
- Kütahya Castle
- Kütahya Meydan Camii
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On day 8 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 Kütahya. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the increasingly popular Kütahya Ulu Camii, a culturally significant mosque in Pamukkale. Next, go to Çini Museum.
After visiting Kütahya Ulu Camii and Çini Museum, have a stroll along Pamukkale's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kossuth Museum (hungarian House). This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience. Kütahya Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Kütahya Meydan Camii, one of the most heritage-rich places to visit in Pamukkale.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Fayton Kafe, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bursa at Titiz Izgara, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bursa tonight.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!
Day 9
- Bursa - Departure day
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- Green Tomb
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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, begin at Green Tomb. This often recommended monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Turkey and go on a shopping spree in Bursa’s shopping center, the lively Zafer Plaza. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Turkey.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bursa.
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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