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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Fatih 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 town.

Get ready for an exciting day in Istanbul. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a mosque, an archeological site, and a palace. Begin your adventure at Süleymaniye Mosque. This is a famous mosque you should not miss. Another must-see is Basilica Cistern, a widely recognized archeological site in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Hagia Sophia. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Topkapı Palace, another of the town’s spectacular attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Bring home unique finds from Istanbul's bustling shopping hub, Olive City Shopping Center. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Olive City Shopping Center offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Reggae Br Shot & Food after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Just Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Bursa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Eskişehir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Heykel, a prime spot to begin your journey. This heritage-rich public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bursa Grand Mosque, another must-visit landmark and well-known mosque renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bursa by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Koza Han. This historic market is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bursa experience. We also recommend visiting İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, a captivating historical landmark. Nearby, you'll also find Emir Sultan Mosque, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Eskişehir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Oda Restoran is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Eskişehir tonight.

Say good night to Eskişehir and look forward to another great 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 Odunpazarı, Ankara, and Altındağ. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ankara, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Çansera Kent Bahçesi, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Eskişehir. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Anıtkabir. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Independence Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Livorno Pub, 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 Filikos Restoran, 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 New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ankara tonight.

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.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Start your adventure at Metu Forest. This intriguing park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Lausanne Park, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Seğmenler Parkı. This popular park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Kuğulu Park, where you can take in majestic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to 50th Year Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at On An On Rock Cafe, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, London Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ankara for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Altındağ to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready for a day filled with photo-friendly spots, historic treasures, and fun adventures in the charming town of Ankara. Your adventure starts at Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ankara Castle. This captivating castle is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Ankara's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This standout museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Haci Bayram Mosque is also worth visiting.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zaytung Zone beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bade'M Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ankara tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Fat Boy Bar & Grill, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. 21 Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Soul Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and religious landmarks. The first attraction of today is Atatürk Bahçesi. Continue your discovery at Keçiören Belediyesi Deniz Dünyası, a picture-perfect aquarium with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Ankara, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Beştepe Millet Camii. This curiosity-inducing mosque offers an instagrammable encounter with Ankara. Next, make your way to Masal Adası to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Ankara.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bolu. Bolu offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at ANTEP SOFRASI, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hanımeli Yemek Salonu? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kubbealti as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bolu.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Bolu. You have 2 nights left in Bolu. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bolu. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Golcuk Nature Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most popular places to visit in Bolu. Next, head to Atatürk Orman Park, a frequently visited park, known for its serene features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Yesil Mosque. This heritage-rich mosque is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Lake Abant. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Oklava offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bolu Hanzade Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bolu.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bolu. You’ll stay in Bolu for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Bolu. Begin your sightseeing with Yedigöller Waterfall. This underrated waterfall is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Yedigöller National Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bolu, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Kapankaya Seyir Terası. This intriguing observation deck is a traveler-favorite.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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 GRAND KEBAP BOLU, 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 Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri), 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 Bolçi Cafe Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bolu. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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