11-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Aydın, Antalya, Konya, Ankara, and Bolu

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Istanbul by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Basilica Cistern. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 71,523 visitors.

Hagia Sophia is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 travelers.

Istanbul is also the home of Spice Bazaar. Around 168,628 people have rated this bazaar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Topkapı Palace, which hosts up to 1,932,726 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 97,459 reviews, a visit to this palace is a great idea.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Istanbul, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Istanbul below.

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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Karga Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Just Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Istanbul, and Beyoğlu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Grand Bazaar. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 150,014 reviews.

Continue your journey at Sultanahmet Square. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,594 travelers from near and far.

Istanbul is also the home of Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Süleymaniye Mosque. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Galata Tower. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

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

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 Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, My Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cemil is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Denizli, Antalya, and Muratpaşa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Antalya, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Denizli and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Denizli beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Denizli Gondola. This gondola lift is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,448 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Denizli, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Antalya may take around 2 hours 48 min. Upon your arrival in Antalya, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Antalya Archaeology Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,053 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 Antalya. Antalya 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 Antalya, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Antalya Balıkevi, a top-rated dining spot in Antalya. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kebap 32 Salih, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ship Inn Marina Restaurant&Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antalya.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Side, and Selçuklu, 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 Konya. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antalya and set your GPS to Side. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Side, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Apollon Temple your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,779 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Side Ancient City. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,382 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Flow Manavgat Waterfall is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 37,986 visitors.

Selçuklu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Side behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 4 min. Selçuklu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Culture Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 18,024 reviews.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kafem Gedavet, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Asmalı Konak Bilardo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Konya.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Extrablatt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mr. Frog Pub Bistro offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Konya.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Konya, and Karatay. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ankara, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Kyoto Japanese Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 15,008 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kyoto Japanese Park, head to Ecdat Parkı. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,272 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden. This butterfly house is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,208 visitors.

After soaking in Konya’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Karatay. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Karatay, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Mevlâna Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 63,829 visitors.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Filikos Restoran, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at MARTI RESTAURANT. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Muddy Waters after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Nil Rock Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Always Rock Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Wake up to day 8 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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,678 visitors.

Anıtkabir is another popular attraction you could visit today. This mausoleum has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 120,860 visitors.

Independence Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ankara, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Çankaya. This drive usually takes around 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Kuğulu Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,340 visitors.

Seğmenler Parkı is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,391 travelers.

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.

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 fulfilling meal, continue your evening at On An On Rock Cafe, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Fat Boy Bar & Grill provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 9 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 Bolu, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Ankara, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,648 visitors.

Ankara Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. Visitors have rated this national museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,978 reviews. Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations receives around 450,000 visitors every year.

Haci Bayram Mosque is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a mosque rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,925 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 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a highly-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bolu, and Üsküdar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Journey into the unknown at Golcuk Nature Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,749 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Üsküdar. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace. This extraordinary palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,834 visitors.

Next, make your way to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This top attraction is a mosque with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Yıldız Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,811 travelers.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Resto Han, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.