10-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Izmir traveling north to Yalova, Istanbul, Bolu, and Bursa

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Konak and Izmir. With 1 night to stay in Izmir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you decide to explore Konak on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This visually striking concert hall will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Konak. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Clock Tower Of İzmir is an interesting monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Next, stop by Kemeraltı, an instagrammable market. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Hisar Mosque, a respected and truly unique mosque.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Chaos Cafe Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Tattoo Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Dinosaur Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Izmir. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Yalova, where you'll spend 1 night.

İnciraltı Kent Ormanı is an ideal stop early in the day. This frequently visited park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Yalova. Yalova offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Yalova, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at AYLA Balık, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dörtyol Kokoreç beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sandal Balık. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Yalova tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Guitar Heroes, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Divan Teras Cafe & Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Yucca Live Performance provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Beyoğlu and Istanbul. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beyoğlu. This car ride takes around 1 hour 25 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Galata Tower and explore the visually striking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Istanbul. This car ride takes around 18 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Hagia Sophia, an iconic mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Grand Bazaar and admire its photogenic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Sultanahmet Square, a well-known public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Sultan Ahmed Mosque, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Istanbul. Check in and relax 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 Istanbul. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Malt Bar Gayrettepe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Istanbul, there’s no need to rush. Experience Fatih and Istanbul to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Experience Beyazıt Square, a well-known public square in the town. Then, head to Spice Bazaar and soak in the ambiance of this respected market.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul, and when you are ready for more, go to Gülhane Park. This is one of the town’s most impressive respected spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the widely recognized Topkapı Palace.

After soaking in Fatih’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Istanbul. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Istanbul, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Süleymaniye Mosque and explore the picture-perfect features.

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

Istanbul is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Keep the evening going at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Just Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 6 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bolu, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Üsküdar.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Eyüpsultan, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Üsküdar to Eyüpsultan may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Eyüpsultan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ortaköy Square, a locally renowned public square in Üsküdar. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Yıldız Park. This notable park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Dolmabahçe Palace is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most enchanting palace in the region.

Eyüpsultan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Üsküdar behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Eyüpsultan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a widely recognized mosque that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Eyüpsultan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beyoğlu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Galata Bridge, an interesting bascule bridge that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Bolu is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bolu.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bolu, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Ankara, Altındağ, and Çankaya.

Set your GPS to Ankara and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 4 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ankara beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Anıtkabir, an iconic monument known for its instagrammable features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Altındağ may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Altındağ, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Independence Park and explore the visually striking features.

Set your GPS to Çankaya and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Çankaya beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Kuğulu Park, a well-known park that everyone visiting Çankaya should see. Next, head to Seğmenler Parkı. This eye-catching park is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Oklava? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bolu Hanzade Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bolu.

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