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.

Today’s itinerary in Istanbul covers several incredible sights, including a mosque, an archeological site, and a palace. Start your adventure at Süleymaniye Mosque. This astonishing mosque is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Basilica Cistern, a must-see archeological site in the town.

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 Hagia Sophia. This timeless mosque offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Topkapı Palace, where you can take in culturally significant features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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, Istinye Park. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Istinye Park offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Istanbul by reserving a table at Calipso Fish. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Sankai by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Arkestra, a local favorite known for its delightful fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning fusion foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Just Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Eskişehir, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bursa is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a mosque, a market, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Heykel and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Bursa Grand Mosque, a picture-perfect mosque that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Koza Han, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. When you're finished at the historical landmark, Emir Sultan Mosque awaits your visit. This mosque is a symbolic highlight on today's itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Eskişehir, 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 Eskişehir. 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 Ciğerci Ahmet, a highly-rated dining destination in Eskişehir. If you're eager to try something different, consider Oda Restoran, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Eskişehir this evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Odunpazarı, Ankara, and Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Eskişehir includes a park, a museum, and a monument. Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Çansera Kent Bahçesi, a frequently visited park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, a photogenic museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Eskişehir. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the wondrous Anıtkabir. If you’re looking for more, Independence Park is also a notable attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Muddy Waters, known for its inviting atmosphere. Nil Rock Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Always Rock Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 2 nights left in Ankara, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Immerse yourself in Ankara’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Metu Forest. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Lausanne Park, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Seğmenler Parkı, an interesting park. For a change of scene, check out Kuğulu Park, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting 50th Year Park. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Golden Pavilion Museum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Afganistan Sofrası. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. On An On Rock Cafe is an excellent place to start. You could also check out London Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Ankara, featuring photo-friendly spots, historic treasures, and family-friendly attractions. Start at Ulucanlar Prison Museum, an interesting museum in the town. Then, head to Ankara Castle and soak in the ambiance of this gorgeous castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Ankara, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This is one of the town’s most notable eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the interesting Haci Bayram Mosque.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zaytung Zone, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bade'M Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Fat Boy Bar & Grill, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. 21 Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Soul Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Keçiören, Ankara, and Sincan, 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 3 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and sacred landmarks in the charming town of Ankara. Your adventure starts at Atatürk Bahçesi, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Keçiören Belediyesi Deniz Dünyası.

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 Beştepe Millet Camii. This visually striking mosque offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Masal Adası is also worth visiting.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at ANTEP SOFRASI, a popular restaurant in Bolu. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bolu at Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, 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 Kubbealti. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bolu tonight.

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

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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bolu, including a park, a mosque, and a lake. Start your adventure at Golcuk Nature Park. This notable park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Atatürk Orman Park located in Bolu for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Yesil Mosque. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the mosque, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Lake Abant. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this lake.

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.

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

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Yedigöller Waterfall. This curiosity-inducing waterfall is an idyllic place to see in Bolu. Continue your discovery at Yedigöller National Park, a romantic national park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bolu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this region so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Kapankaya Seyir Terası. This underrated observation deck offers an eye-catching encounter with Bolu. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bolu.

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.

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.

Dine in style at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri) boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bolu.

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