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

Greet day 2 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Antalya for your remaining 1 night 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 Antalya, and Muratpaşa.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Antalya Archaeology Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,053 visitors.

Next, make your way to Duden Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,934 reviews.

After soaking in Antalya’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Muratpaşa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 7 min. When you arrive in Muratpaşa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Yavuz Ozcan Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,665 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Sultan Alaaddin Camii is a recommended place to visit. This mosque is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 221 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Muratpaşa is Karaalioglu Park. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,480 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Muratpaşa offers an experience you will remember.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Kanatçı Ali Asker, a popular restaurant in Antalya. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Antalya at Kazan Restoran, 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 Çam Pide. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Antalya tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Side, and Selçuklu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Konya. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Side. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Apollon Temple, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,779 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Side Ancient City. Side Ancient City is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,382 reviews.

Flow Manavgat Waterfall is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 37,986 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Side, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Selçuklu. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 4 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Culture Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 18,024 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 Konya. Konya 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 Konya's best restaurants.

Make sure to book a table at Kafem Gedavet, a popular restaurant in Konya. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Konya at Akyokuş Dostların Yeri Aile Restauranttı, 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 Asmalı Konak Bilardo. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Konya tonight.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Extrablatt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mr. Frog Pub Bistro, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Karatay, Çankaya, and 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 Ankara. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Konya, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Karatay. Your travel time is around 6 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Mevlâna Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 63,829 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karatay 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 3 hours 4 min. Upon reaching Çankaya, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Kuğulu Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,340 reviews.

Continue your journey at Seğmenler Parkı. This park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,391 travelers from near and far.

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

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

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Muddy Waters, known for its lively atmosphere. Nil Rock Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Always Rock Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Ankara. 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 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ankara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,978 visitors. Up to 450,000 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Haci Bayram Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,925 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bolu, 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 Bolu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

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

On day 6 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 Üsküdar, and Beyoğlu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Üsküdar, 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 Bolu to Üsküdar may take around 2 hours 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Üsküdar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Dolmabahçe Palace is a great place to start. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,834 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ortaköy Square. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,766 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. The mosque has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Yıldız Park. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 reviews.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Galata Tower. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 172,160 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 Istanbul. Istanbul 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 Istanbul, 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 7 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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 53,090 reviews.

Continue your journey at Spice Bazaar. This bazaar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 travelers from near and far.

Istanbul is also the home of Grand Bazaar. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Gülhane Park. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,194 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Topkapı Palace. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,459 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this palace. Approximately 1,932,726 people visit this attraction every year.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Istanbul has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Istanbul offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ulus 29. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Karga Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Just Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

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 Sultanahmet Square. Around 31,594 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 95,369 reviews, a visit to this mosque is a great idea.

You can learn more about Istanbul today by going on a tour. Istanbul 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 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 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.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Fatih’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beyoğlu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This popular mosque has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 59,048 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beyoğlu. This car ride takes around 15 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Galata Bridge. This much-appreciated bascule bridge is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,633 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.

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

Dine in style at Kitap Evi Otel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tabipler Lokali boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bursa.

Round off your dining experience by visiting My Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cemil likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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

Set your GPS to Denizli 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. Denizli beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,695 reviews.

Horoz Heykeli is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 184 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Pamukkale Tematik Kent Ormanı Parkı. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 351 reviews.

Denizli Gondola is another outstanding experience in Denizli. Around 6,448 travelers have rated this gondola lift an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Schiller Kaffee & Franco's Pizza, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bella Vita Bistro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Antalya Usulü Serpme Börek (Börekçi Hasan) is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Antalya.

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.