10-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Eskişehir, Ankara, Sakarya, and Istanbul

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Altındağ, 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 Ankara. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Altındağ. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a notable museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Haci Bayram Mosque, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings. Next, explore Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, yet another popular place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Ankara Castle. This picture-perfect castle is well worthwhile the visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Ankara. Ankara offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Ankara, 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 delicious meal 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.

Keep the evening going at The Muddy Waters, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Nil Rock Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Always Rock Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to Ankara 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 Çankaya, Ankara, Altındağ, and Bolu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sakarya, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Anıtkabir. This world-famous monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.

Begin your journey at Kuğulu Park and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Seğmenler Parkı, another highlight in the town.

Altındağ’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ankara behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Altındağ welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Independence Park, a popular park known for its picture-perfect features.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Hakiki Rumeli Koftecisi, an iconic dining spot in Sakarya. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kebapcibey, a popular restaurant in Sakarya. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sakarya and set your GPS to Üsküdar. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. Upon reaching Üsküdar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a notable mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Yıldız Park and admire its eye-catching features. When you’re ready, continue to Dolmabahçe Palace, a spectacular palace beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Set your GPS to Eyüpsultan and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Eyüpsultan beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Miniatürk, a locally renowned museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Eyüpsultan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Beyoğlu. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Galata Tower, a timeless observation deck in Beyoğlu. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Calipso Fish offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Sankai by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Arkestra, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional fusion menu.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

Day 8 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Istanbul. Your adventure starts at Hagia Sophia, a timeless local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Basilica Cistern. This top-rated archeological site is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Istanbul's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Sultanahmet Square. This culturally significant public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Sultan Ahmed Mosque is also worth visiting.

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.

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 delicious meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pierre Loti Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Eyüpsultan and Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Istanbul, including a park, a botanical garden, and a castle. Start your day at Emirgan Park. This romantic park is a well-known place to see in Istanbul. Then, wander over to Baltalimanı Japanese Garden. If romantic sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rumeli Fortress. This respected castle is a favorite among visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Istanbul, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Eyüpsultan to Istanbul may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Istanbul, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a widely recognized mosque that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Pierre Loti Hill, a romantic observation deck that stands out in the town.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bursa. Bursa offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Dine in style at Fayton Kafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Titiz Izgara boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bursa.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!