10-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling east to Kocaeli, Ankara, Eskişehir, and Bursa

Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Istanbul and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Istanbul 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 Beyazıt Square or 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 Istanbul. 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 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 delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at BrusQ Bar & Hookah Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rounder's Irish Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Karga Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Turkey!

Day 2 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Istanbul. You have 1 night left in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Topkapı Palace. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 96,057 visitors and gets around 1,932,726 visits every year.

Hagia Sophia is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 128,176 travelers.

Istanbul is also the home of Basilica Cistern. Around 69,691 people have rated this palace an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 93,360 reviews, a visit to this mosque is a great idea.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

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 Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Resto Han. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Just Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kocaeli, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 58,559 visitors.

Beyoğlu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Galata Bridge. This bascule bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,649 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kocaeli, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Marina Cafe Sekapark, a top-rated dining destination in Kocaeli. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Romano Cafe Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Kristo Izmit. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kocaeli this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to 262 Live Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. BABEL Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Doping Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

On day 4 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 Bolu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bolu. This car ride takes around 1 hour 48 min.

Kick off the day at Upper Stone Inn, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 524 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Beyazıt Cami. Beyazıt Cami is a mosque with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 822 reviews.

Atatürk Orman Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,718 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Ankara. Ankara offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Ankara's best restaurants.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of MARTI RESTAURANT, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Afganistan Sofrası, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Muddy Waters stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Nil Rock Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Always Rock Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Ankara for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ulucanlar Prison Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,418 reviews.

Ankara Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 18,465 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,682 reviews. Every year, around 450,000 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Haci Bayram Mosque is another outstanding experience in Ankara. Around 19,579 travelers have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Your discoveries in Ankara do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Ankara on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zaytung Zone offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bogazici Lokantasi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ankara.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at On An On Rock Cafe, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. Fat Boy Bar & Grill is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Ankara. You’ll stay in Ankara for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned MTA Genel Müdürlüğü Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,590 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Anıtkabir. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 119,472 visitors, this mausoleum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Independence Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,754 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Ankara has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Turkey by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Şehir Kebapçısı, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, New Park Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at No4. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ankara tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Soul Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O Ses Sensin - Karaoke provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Celt Irish Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Ankara and Keçiören. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Eskişehir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Ankara, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Eskişehir. Your travel time is around 2 hours 38 min.

Journey into the unknown at Beştepe Millet Camii, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 7,368 reviews.

Upon your arrival in Keçiören, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Keçiören Belediyesi Deniz Dünyası. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,678 visitors.

Keçiören Evcil Hayvanlar Parkı is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 7,330 visitors.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Eskişehir.

Make sure to book a table at Ciğerci Ahmet, a popular restaurant in Eskişehir. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Eskişehir at Oda Restoran, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Tatlıdil Köftecisi. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Eskişehir tonight.

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

Dive into day 8 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 Bursa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you arrive in Tepebaşı, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,946 reviews.

Set your GPS to Odunpazarı and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Odunpazarı beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Eskişehir Odunpazarı Evleri. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,551 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,727 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bursa, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tabipler Lokali, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

Cap off your dinner by heading to My Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cemil is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar 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 1 night.

Upon your arrival in Üsküdar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque). This mosque is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Üsküdar, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 33,548 visitors.

Yıldız Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,412 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Dolmabahçe Palace. Visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,645 reviews.

When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Miniatürk. This much-appreciated miniature park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,166 reviews.

Next up is Galata Tower. This tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 170,132 visitors.

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

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

Dine in style at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hanzade Terrace Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

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 10 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Istanbul before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Turkey and go on a shopping spree in Istanbul’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Turkey, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Turkey home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Istanbul.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Harp Irish Pub, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Istanbul. 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!