10-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul to Bursa, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Sakarya

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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a great place to start. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 95,369 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Basilica Cistern. This palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 71,523 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Hagia Sophia. The minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Topkapı Palace. This palace is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,459 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 1,932,726 people visit Topkapı Palace every year.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Arkestra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Karga Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Just Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul, Beyoğlu, and Fatih, 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Grand Bazaar, a remarkable bazaar where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 150,014 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 53,090 travelers.

Spice Bazaar is another must-visit attraction. This renowned bazaar offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking in Beyoğlu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Fatih. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Fatih, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Galata Bridge. This popular bascule bridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,633 visitors.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting My Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cemil 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.

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 Bursa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Eskişehir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Heykel. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,191 visitors.

When you’re finished at Heykel, head to Koza Han. This one-of-a-kind bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 30,790 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Bursa Grand Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 40,156 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 24,970 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Emir Sultan Mosque. This famous mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 10,128 travelers.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Ciğerci Ahmet, an iconic dining spot in Eskişehir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oda Restoran, a popular restaurant in Eskişehir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Tatlıdil Köftecisi, a hidden gem nestled in Eskişehir. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Ankara, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at 50th Year Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,183 visitors.

When you’re finished at 50th Year Park, head to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,678 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Beştepe Millet Camii. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,425 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Çankaya. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Drop by the renowned Kuğulu Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,340 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Seğmenler Parkı. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,391 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at Golden Pavilion Museum, a popular restaurant in Ankara. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ankara at Afganistan Sofrası, 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 Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Ankara tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at On An On Rock Cafe, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fat Boy Bar & Grill, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Ankara for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This extraordinary national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 visitors. Each year, around 450,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Ankara Castle. This top attraction is a castle with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,722 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Altınköy Açık Hava Müzesi. This museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,849 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Gokyay Foundation Chess Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,526 travelers.

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.

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

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Soul Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, O Ses Sensin - Karaoke offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Celt Irish Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ankara, and Bolu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sakarya, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,648 visitors.

Haci Bayram Mosque is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,925 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ankara and set your GPS to Bolu. 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 2 hours 8 min. Upon reaching Bolu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Atatürk Orman Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,777 visitors.

When you’re finished at Atatürk Orman Park, head to Golcuk Nature Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,749 reviews.

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 Sakarya. Sakarya 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Beytuş Hamburger & Pizza, a top-rated dining destination in Sakarya. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mono Cafe - Segafredo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Köfteci İsmail. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sakarya this evening.

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

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.

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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This extraordinary mosque has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,341 visitors.

Next, make your way to Yıldız Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,811 reviews.

While in Üsküdar, we also recommend a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Üsküdar, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Beyoğlu may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Beyoğlu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Miniatürk. Previous visitors have rated this miniature park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,484 reviews.

Galata Tower is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Istanbul, 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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try Resto Han, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

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