11-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara traveling west to Eskişehir, Istanbul, and Bolu

On day 2 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ankara for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ankara and Çankaya to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Ankara, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Metu Forest, a locally appreciated park in the city.

Set your GPS to Çankaya and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Çankaya beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Lausanne Park, an increasingly popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Seğmenler Parkı and admire its majestic features. When you’re ready, continue to Kuğulu Park, a locally renowned park beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Golden Pavilion Museum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Afganistan Sofrası. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

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, London Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 3 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 Ankara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Eskişehir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Ankara is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Anıtkabir, a globally renowned monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Çansera Kent Bahçesi. This park is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

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 Eskişehir. Eskişehir 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.

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 wonderful meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated dining spot in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood for something new, try Oda Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Eskişehir.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Iznik, Istanbul, and Fatih. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Eskişehir, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Iznik may take around 2 hours. Upon your arrival in Iznik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Hagia Sophia Mosque, an intriguing mosque that everyone visiting Iznik should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Set your GPS to Istanbul and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Istanbul beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Spice Bazaar, a timeless market known for its respected features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Beyazıt Square, a notable public square that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Süleymaniye Mosque, a famous mosque that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Istanbul. Rounder's Irish Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Istanbul by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Istanbul. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a market, a spa, a public square, an archeological site, a mosque and much more! Begin your adventure at Grand Bazaar. This is a world-famous market you should not miss. Another must-see is Çemberlitaş Hamamı, a curiosity-inducing spa in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sultanahmet Square. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Cistern, another of the city’s spectacular attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a historic mosque. Hagia Sophia is a truly remarkable place to visit in Istanbul.

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.

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

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s agenda in Istanbul includes a park, a museum, and a palace. Gülhane Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Istanbul Archaeological Museums, an interesting museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Topkapı Palace, a photogenic palace, also available for your discovery today.

Istanbul’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Fatih behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Istanbul welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Laleli Mosque, a notable mosque that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Altındağ. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ankara, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Altındağ and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Altındağ beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Ulucanlar Prison Museum and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Ankara Castle, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, an instagrammable museum. Nearby, you will also find Haci Bayram Mosque. This interesting mosque is a top place to see in the area.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Zaytung Zone offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bade'M Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ankara.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Fat Boy Bar & Grill, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, 21 Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Soul Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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