12-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Izmir traveling north to Yalova, Istanbul, Bolu, and Bursa

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Izmir, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your adventure at Agora Of Smyrna. This intriguing archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum, a must-see museum 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 Konak Mosque. This underrated mosque offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Arkas Art Center. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Chaos Cafe Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Tattoo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Dinosaur Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Üsküdar, Fatih, and Istanbul. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Yalova. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Dolmabahçe Palace is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Yalova. Next, head to Süleymaniye Mosque, a spectacular mosque, known for its grand 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 Spice Bazaar. This heritage-rich market is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Grand Bazaar and Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Calipso Fish offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Sankai by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Arkestra, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional fusion menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Malt Bar Gayrettepe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Rounder's Irish Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Istanbul. 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 itinerary in Istanbul covers several incredible sights, including a mosque, an archeological site, a park, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Hagia Sophia. This iconic mosque is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Basilica Cistern, a must-see archeological site 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 Gülhane Park. This impressive park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Topkapı Palace, where you can take in UNESCO world heritage-designated features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Dine in style at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hanımeli Yemek Salonu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kubbealti. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bolu.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bolu has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Bolu by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bolu, including a park, an observation deck, a national park, a waterfall, a lake and much more! 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 Kapankaya Seyir Terası located in Bolu for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Yedigöller National Park. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you. After the national park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Yedigöller Waterfall. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this waterfall. Next up is Serin Lake, a highly recommended 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.

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

Get ready for an exciting day in Bolu. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, a museum, and a lake. Begin your adventure at Victory Tower. This is a frequently visited monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Mudurnu Clock Tower, an often recommended monument in Bolu.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Abant Tabiat Müzesi. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Lake Abant, another of the town’s up-and-coming attractions.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri) offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bolu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bolu today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Orta Hamam. This history-steeped spa will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Beyazıt Cami and learn what makes this culturally significant mosque unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Atatürk Orman Park. After exploring the park, head to Tomb Of Hayreddin-i Tokadı. This curiosity-inducing monument is a highlight in Bolu.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kitap Evi Otel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tabipler Lokali? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Abidin Usta as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bursa.

Continue your lively evening at My Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cemil 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 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bursa. You’ll stay in Bursa for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start by visiting Bursa Grand Mosque, a prime spot to begin your journey. This awe-inspiring mosque is sure to impress. Next on your list is Koza Han, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned market renowned for its visually striking 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 Orhan Gazi Mosque. This respected mosque is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bursa experience. We also recommend visiting Bursa City Museum, a worthwhile museum.

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 Bursa, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, 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 TANDIR'AZ BURSA, 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 Labelle Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kule Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bursa, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bursa and Osmangazi. You still have 1 night left in Bursa.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Uludağ Sarıalan. This frequently visited mountain range is a serene place to see in Bursa. Continue your discovery at Sarıalan Campground, a visually striking campground with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bursa, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Kirazlı Yayla. This beloved plateau offers a romantic encounter with Bursa. Next, make your way to Uludag National Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Muradiye Mosque, an up-and-coming mosque that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bursa.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fayton Kafe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Titiz Izgara offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.

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