7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara traveling west to Eskişehir, Istanbul, and Kocaeli

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Ankara allows for both. Start by heading to Lausanne Park. This locally appreciated park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Seğmenler Parkı, a serene park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Anıtkabir, a wondrous monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. Round off your day at Çansera Kent Bahçesi, another gem in Ankara with gorgeous features to discover.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Eskişehir's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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

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 Iznik, 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 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Hagia Sophia Mosque. Continue your discovery at Spice Bazaar, a heritage-rich market with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Eskişehir, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque. This astonishing mosque offers a stunning encounter with Eskişehir. Next, make your way to Grand Bazaar to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Eskişehir.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Istanbul, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Start 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Rounder's Irish Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the extraordinary Topkapı Palace, a historic palace in Istanbul. Next, go to Hagia Sophia.

After visiting Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, have a stroll along Istanbul's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilica Cistern. This standout archeological site offers a unique experience. Gülhane Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Reggae Br Shot & Food stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Just Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

On day 5 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 Beyoğlu and Üsküdar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kocaeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Galata Tower, an iconic observation deck in the town. Then, head to Dolmabahçe Palace and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul, and when you are ready for more, go to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This is one of the town’s most well-known breathtaking spots of interest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kocaeli. 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 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.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bolu and Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Kocaeli. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Orta Hamam is the perfect place to start. This spa is one of the most beloved places to visit in Kocaeli. Next, head to Column Of Julian, a beloved monument, known for its heritage-rich features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Haci Bayram Mosque. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Golden Pavilion Museum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Afganistan Sofrası. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at On An On Rock Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, London Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!