12-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara to Bolu, Istanbul, Bursa, and Eskişehir

Wake up to day 2 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!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Ankara today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Metu Forest. This majestic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi and learn what makes this historic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the timeless Anıtkabir.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ankara and set your GPS to Çankaya. 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 9 min. Upon reaching Çankaya, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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

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.

Dine in style at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Golden Pavilion Museum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Afganistan Sofrası. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ankara.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to On An On Rock Cafe, known for its inviting atmosphere. London Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ankara and Keçiören. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bolu, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Ankara covers several incredible sights, including an aquarium and a mosque. Start your adventure at Aqua Vega Aquarium. This notable aquarium is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Beştepe Millet Camii, a must-see mosque in the city.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Keçiören.

Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Gökçek Park, a mesmerizing park that stands out in the city.

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.

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.

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.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Istanbul 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 Beyoğlu and Istanbul.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Istanbul, including a mosque and an archeological site. Start your adventure at Hagia Sophia. This timeless mosque is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Basilica Cistern located in Istanbul for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Istanbul, 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 Beyoğlu to Istanbul may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Istanbul, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Galata Tower is a world-famous observation deck we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mitani Cafe, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Divella Bistro Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eyüpsultan. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a notable mosque that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Yıldız Park, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings. Next, explore Dolmabahçe Palace, yet another impressive place to see in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Üsküdar, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Eyüpsultan may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Eyüpsultan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a top-rated mosque known for its respected features.

When you’ve had your share of Eyüpsultan, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beyoğlu. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Galata Bridge is an interesting bascule bridge we recommend making time to visit today.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Abidin Usta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at My Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cemil provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Altındağ, 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 Ankara. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Altındağ, 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 Eskişehir to Altındağ may take around 2 hours 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Altındağ, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Ankara Castle. This interesting castle is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Ulucanlar Prison Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, continue your journey to Haci Bayram Mosque, a captivating mosque.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ankara. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Ankara, 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 dining experience at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a popular restaurant in Ankara. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ankara at Zaytung Zone, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bade'M Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ankara tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Fat Boy Bar & Grill after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to 21 Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Soul Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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