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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Izmir and Konak. You still have 1 night left in Izmir.

Today's adventure in Izmir promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Agora Of Smyrna. This stunning archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Izmir Archaeological And Ethnography Museum, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Konak Mosque, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its symbolic features.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Izmir by reserving a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Adil Müftüoğlu, recognized for its delicious turkish dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Turkey.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Üsküdar, Fatih, and Istanbul, 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 Istanbul. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Yalova, including a palace, a mosque, and a market. Start your day with a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace. This famous palace is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Süleymaniye Mosque, which may be one of the most respected places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Yalova on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Spice Bazaar, a world-famous market in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Grand Bazaar and Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

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.

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

Start 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Malt Bar Gayrettepe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Istanbul. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bolu, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Istanbul today. One of the most world-famous attractions included on the itinerary is Hagia Sophia. This breathtaking mosque will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Cistern and learn what makes this photogenic archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the astonishing Gülhane Park. After exploring the park, head to Topkapı Palace. This famous palace is a highlight in Istanbul.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bolu, 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 Bolu's best restaurants.

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.

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

Day 6 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bolu, including a park, an observation deck, a national park, a waterfall, a lake and much more! Start your day with a visit to Golcuk Nature Park. This captivating park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Kapankaya Seyir Terası, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bolu on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Yedigöller National Park, an interesting national park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Yedigöller Waterfall and Serin 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.

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

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Turkey.

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Bolu, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming town of Bolu. Your adventure starts at Victory Tower, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Mudurnu Clock Tower. This beloved monument is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bolu's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Abant Tabiat Müzesi. Lake Abant is also worth visiting.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, a highly-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri), another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 8 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 Bolu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bolu. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a spa, a mosque, a park, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Orta Hamam. This is an underrated spa you should not miss. Another must-see is Beyazıt Cami, a frequently visited mosque in Bolu.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Atatürk Orman Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Tomb Of Hayreddin-i Tokadı, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tabipler Lokali is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Abidin Usta. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bursa tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at My Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cemil, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bursa has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Bursa by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Bursa. Your adventure starts at Bursa Grand Mosque, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Koza Han. This interesting market is known for its breathtaking appeal.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, TANDIR'AZ BURSA beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Labelle Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, known for its lively atmosphere. Kule Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Uludağ Sarıalan. This underrated mountain range is a romantic place to see in Bursa. Continue your discovery at Sarıalan Campground, an awe-inspiring 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 mesmerizing encounter with Bursa. Next, make your way to Uludag National Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Muradiye Mosque, a beloved 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.

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 delightful dinner at Fayton Kafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Titiz Izgara? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bursa.

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