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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Izmir, Karabağlar, and Konak. 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.

Start your adventure at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This underrated concert hall is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Güzelyali Park located in Izmir for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Clock Tower Of İzmir. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Konak Square. Next up is Kemeraltı, a highly recommended market.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kitap Evi Otel, an iconic dining spot in Bursa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tabipler Lokali, a popular restaurant in Bursa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Abidin Usta, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at My Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bursa. Cemil is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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

Today's adventure in Bursa promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bursa Grand Mosque. This stunning mosque is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Koza Han, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the city’s most astonishing attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This historic mosque is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Yıldız Park, a popular park, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Arkestra, a local gem known for its delightful fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Rounder's Irish Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Istanbul, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Istanbul is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Galata Tower, a wondrous observation deck that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Spice Bazaar, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Hagia Sophia. This mosque is one of the town’s most world-famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Istanbul at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Gülhane Park. After exploring the park, head to the top-rated Topkapı Palace.

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

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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Reggae Br Shot & Food, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Just Bar is another popular option for a drink or two.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Istanbul for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Istanbul and Fatih to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Istanbul, including a market, a public square, and a mosque. Start your adventure at Grand Bazaar. This world-famous market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Sultanahmet Square located in Istanbul for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the mosque, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Beyazıt Square. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this public square. Next up is Süleymaniye Mosque, a highly recommended mosque.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pierre Loti Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Eyüpsultan, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bolu, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This grand mosque is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Beylerbeyi Palace, a notable palace. For a change of scene, check out Maiden's Tower, known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bolu. 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 Bolu. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day 7 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Bolu. You have 1 night left in Bolu. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the interesting Yedigöller National Park, a romantic national park in Bolu. Next, go to Atatürk Orman Park.

After visiting Yedigöller National Park and Atatürk Orman Park, have a stroll along Bolu's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Golcuk Nature Park. This instagrammable park offers a unique experience. Lake Abant is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 explore more of Bolu, 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.

Dine in style at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Oklava boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bolu Hanzade Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bolu.

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

Dive into day 8 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.

Today’s itinerary in Bolu covers several incredible sights, including a mosque, a museum, and a castle. Start your adventure at Haci Bayram Mosque. This locally renowned mosque is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a must-see museum 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 Ankara Castle. This interesting castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ulucanlar Prison Museum, where you can take in history-steeped features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Livorno Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Filikos Restoran? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ankara.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Çankaya, Altındağ, and Ankara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Eskişehir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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

Next, check out Independence Park, one of the most notable places to see in Ankara. This park 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 culturally significant atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated dining spot in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood for something new, try Oda Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Eskişehir.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Kütahya, Denizli, and Pamukkale. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Denizli. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Eskişehir. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Kütahya Ulu Camii is the perfect place to start. This mosque is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Eskişehir. Next, head to Denizli Gondola, an underrated tramway, known for its instagrammable 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 Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park. This serene park is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Denizli, 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 Lavin Otel Denizli, a popular restaurant in Denizli. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Denizli at Ruma 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 Gökçen Gözleme Evi. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Denizli tonight.

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

On day 11 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 Pamukkale and Goncalı. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Pamukkale South Gate, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picturesque archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Travertines Of Pamukkale, another must-visit landmark and widely recognized geothermal field renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Denizli by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Pamukkale Turkey. This romantic geothermal field is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Denizli experience. We also recommend visiting Natural Park, a curiosity-inducing park. Nearby, you'll also find Laodicea Ancient City, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Izmir, Adil Müftüoğlu shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious turkish cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

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

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