11-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul to Bursa, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Bolu

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at Topkapı Palace, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,459 reviews. Every year, Topkapı Palace welcomes more than 1,932,726 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Hagia Sophia is a recommended place to visit. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 129,265 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Istanbul is Basilica Cistern. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Istanbul offers an experience you will remember.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Istanbul. This mosque promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 95,369 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Istanbul has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Karga Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Just Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

Day 3 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Bazaar. This extraordinary bazaar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 visitors.

Next, make your way to Süleymaniye Mosque. This top attraction is a mosque with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Spice Bazaar. This bazaar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 travelers.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, 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 Resto Han, 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 Old English Pub ® Cafe & 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.

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 Küçükçekmece, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 2 nights.

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 Küçükçekmece to Fatih may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Fatih, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Istanbul Aquarium. This public aquarium is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Küçükçekmece, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 33,724 visitors.

Fatih’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Küçükçekmece behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Fatih welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Eyüp Sultan Mosque is a great place to start. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 59,048 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bursa. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at My Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cemil is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bursa, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Koza Han. Previous visitors have rated this bazaar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 30,790 reviews.

Bursa Grand Mosque is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 40,156 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Han Brass. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,719 reviews.

İnkaya Historical Plane Tree is another outstanding experience in Bursa. Around 24,970 travelers have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gölyazı. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ağlayan Çınar. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 14,658 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Abidin Usta, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bursa at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, 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 TANDIR'AZ BURSA. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bursa tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kule Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Odunpazarı, Ankara, and Çankaya. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ankara, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Odunpazarı. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Journey into the unknown at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,931 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ankara. This car ride takes around 2 hours 31 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Anıtkabir. This mausoleum is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 120,860 visitors.

When you’re finished at Anıtkabir, head to Independence Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Filikos Restoran, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at MARTI RESTAURANT as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ankara.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Muddy Waters is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Nil Rock Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Always Rock Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Ankara. You’ll stay in Ankara for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see Çansera Kent Bahçesi. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,648 visitors.

Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,678 travelers.

Ankara is also the home of Haci Bayram Mosque. Around 19,925 people have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Altınköy Açık Hava Müzesi. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 11,849 reviews, a visit to this museum is a great idea.

You can learn more about Ankara today by going on a tour. Ankara offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at On An On Rock Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Fat Boy Bar & Grill offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Ankara, 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 Bolu. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations one of your first sightseeing stops in Ankara. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This national museum attracts 450,000 visitors every year.

Ankara Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This castle is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,648 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Aqua Vega Aquarium. A trip to this popular aquarium is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.1 out of 5-star rating as given by 11,242 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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining spot in Bolu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kubbealti. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bolu.

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

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 1 vibrant destinations - 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.

When you’ve had your share of Bolu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Üsküdar. Your travel time is around 2 hours 46 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Dolmabahçe Clock Tower. This extraordinary clock tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,106 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

While in Üsküdar, we also recommend a visit to Ortaköy Square. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,766 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 travelers, this mosque is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Üsküdar.

Make your way to Yıldız Park, perhaps the most famous park in Üsküdar. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,811 reviews.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanzade Terrace Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at 11 Kadıköy. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

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