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

On day 2 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.

Istanbul is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Gülhane Park, a spectacular park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Basilica Cistern, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Hagia Sophia. This mosque is one of the city’s most iconic spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Istanbul at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Topkapı Palace.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Istanbul's bustling shopping hub, Olive City Shopping Center. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Olive City Shopping Center offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Istanbul by reserving a table at Calipso Fish. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Arkestra, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Just Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Istanbul, Fatih, and Eyüpsultan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kocaeli. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Grand Bazaar, a wondrous market in the city. Then, head to Spice Bazaar and soak in the ambiance of this standout market.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul, and when you are ready for more, go to Süleymaniye Mosque. This is one of the city’s most astonishing stunning spots of interest. After exploring the mosque, visit the notable Pierre Loti Hill. Not far away, you'll also find Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This mosque is a culturally significant highlight in Istanbul.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated dining spot in Kocaeli.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Ankara for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Altındağ.

Discover a day packed with photo-friendly spots, history-rich sites, and family-friendly attractions in Ankara. Begin your sightseeing with Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This well-known museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Ankara Castle, 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 Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This notable museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Haci Bayram Mosque, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Ankara and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at MARTI RESTAURANT, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Golden Pavilion Museum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Afganistan Sofrası as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ankara.

Round off your dining experience by visiting On An On Rock Cafe, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of London Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Ankara, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Immerse yourself in Ankara’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Seğmenler Parkı. This awe-inspiring park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Kuğulu Park, a must-visit park 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 Independence Park, a popular park. For a change of scene, check out Anıtkabir, known for its picture-perfect features. We also recommend visiting Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zaytung Zone beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bade'M Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ankara tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Fat Boy Bar & Grill, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. 21 Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Soul Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Keçiören and Ankara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Eskişehir, which will be your home away from home 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 Atatürk Bahçesi. This frequently visited park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Gökçek Park, a stunning park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Keçiören Belediyesi Deniz Dünyası, a worthwhile aquarium. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Beştepe Millet Camii.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ciğerci Ahmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Oda Restoran offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Eskişehir.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, and Eskişehir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Eskişehir. Begin your sightseeing with Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island. This intriguing park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Eskişehir, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This locally appreciated aviation museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Dede Korkut Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at My Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cemil, another top-rated place in the area.

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