11-Day Turkey Road Trip from Bursa to Bolu, Istanbul, Yalova, and Izmir and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Bolu, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Make Koza Han one of your first sightseeing stops in Bursa. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 30,790 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Bursa Grand Mosque is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This mosque is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 40,156 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Han Brass. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,719 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Uludag National Park. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 23,535 previous 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 Bolu. Bolu 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.

As you explore more of Bolu, 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 ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bolu, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Ankara, and Çankaya. You still have 1 night left in Bolu.

Ankara’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bolu behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 4 min. Ankara welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Anıtkabir your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mausoleum an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 120,860 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Independence Park. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Çankaya’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ankara behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Çankaya welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Kuğulu Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,340 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kuğulu Park, head to Seğmenler Parkı. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,391 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bolu. 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.

Savor the flavors at Gaye Otel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Oklava. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bolu tonight.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Beyoğlu, and Istanbul. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Beyoğlu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bolu behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 55 min. Beyoğlu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Galata Tower is a great place to start. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 visitors.

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Hagia Sophia. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 visitors.

When you’re finished at Hagia Sophia, head to Basilica Cistern. This one-of-a-kind palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71,523 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 95,369 visitors.

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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Istanbul by securing a table at Calipso Fish. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Sankai by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Arkestra, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for fusion cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Rock Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Topkapı Palace, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 97,459 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 1,932,726 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Gülhane Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,194 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.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Süleymaniye Mosque. This well-loved mosque boasts a 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 53,090 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Grand Bazaar awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a bazaar, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 previous visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ulus 29. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Üsküdar, Fatih, and Beyoğlu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Yalova, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Üsküdar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Fatih. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,341 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Yıldız Park. Yıldız Park is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 reviews.

Dolmabahçe Palace is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,834 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Fatih, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Üsküdar to Fatih may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Fatih, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 59,048 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Yalova, 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 Yalova's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Dörtyol Kokoreç, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sandal Balık offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Yalova Sütlüsü. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Yalova.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Guitar Heroes, known for its inviting atmosphere. Divan Teras Cafe & Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Yucca Live Performance provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Izmir, Karabağlar, and Konak, 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 Izmir. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Yalova and set your GPS to Izmir. 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 3 hours 56 min. Upon reaching Izmir, 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 Arkas Art Center. This art museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,172 visitors.

When you’re finished at Arkas Art Center, head to Kestane Pazarı Camii. This one-of-a-kind mosque is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,519 reviews.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,807 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 Izmir. Izmir 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Izmir. 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional turkish, and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Izmir, Adil Müftüoğlu shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious turkish cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

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

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.

Greet day 8 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Izmir 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 Izmir, Karabağlar, and Konak.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,395 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Karabağlar, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Konak may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Konak, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Güzelyali Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,720 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Karabağlar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Konak. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Clock Tower Of İzmir your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,286 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Konak Mosque. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,868 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this mosque every year.

Konak Square is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,737 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Izmir, 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 lovely meal at Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SELİM DE ÇEŞME KUMRU TOST SANDVİÇ IZGARA KÖFTE KONAK ÇEŞME KUMRU. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Sky Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Chaos Cafe Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tattoo Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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