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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Hagia Sophia, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 129,265 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Basilica Cistern. Basilica Cistern is a palace with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 71,523 reviews.

Sultanahmet Square is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,594 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 95,369 visitors.

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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Arkestra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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 3 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Topkapı Palace is a great place to start. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 97,459 visitors. Topkapı Palace attracts more than 1,932,726 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Grand Bazaar. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Süleymaniye Mosque. The mosque has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Spice Bazaar. This bazaar is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Istanbul on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Resto Han? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Üsküdar and set your GPS to Beyoğlu. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Beyoğlu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This extraordinary mosque has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,341 visitors.

Next, make your way to Yıldız Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,811 reviews.

While in Üsküdar, we also recommend a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 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 21 min. Beyoğlu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Galata Bridge. Previous visitors have rated this bascule bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,633 reviews.

Fatih’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Beyoğlu behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Fatih welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 59,048 visitors.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hanzade Terrace Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss 11 Kadıköy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 5 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 Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bursa and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bursa beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bursa, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 24,970 visitors.

Han Brass is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,719 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Bursa Grand Mosque. Visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 40,156 reviews.

Koza Han is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a bazaar rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 30,790 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Heykel, perhaps the most famous point of interest in Bursa. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,191 travelers.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tabipler Lokali, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

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.

On day 8 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 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ankara, and Çankaya to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Journey into the unknown at Çansera Kent Bahçesi, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,648 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,678 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Ankara is 50th Year Park. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,183 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Ankara offers an experience you will remember.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ankara, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Çankaya may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Çankaya, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Kuğulu Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,340 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Seğmenler Parkı is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,391 reviews.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Golden Pavilion Museum, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Afganistan Sofrası, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to On An On Rock Cafe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fat Boy Bar & Grill is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Ankara. You have 1 night left in Ankara. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ulucanlar Prison Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Ankara Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 18,722 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,978 reviews. Every year, around 450,000 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Haci Bayram Mosque is another outstanding experience in Ankara. Around 19,925 travelers have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Ankara has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Ankara 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 Ankara's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zaytung Zone, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Safranhan, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bogazici Lokantasi. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Soul Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, O Ses Sensin - Karaoke offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Celt Irish Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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