13-Day Turkey Road Trip from Adana traveling west to Aksaray, Bolu, Bursa, Istanbul, Kocaeli, Ankara, and Kayseri

On day 6 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Koza Han. Previous visitors have rated this bazaar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 30,790 reviews.

Bursa Grand Mosque is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 40,156 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Bursa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Üsküdar. Your travel time is around 1 hour 56 min.

Kick off the day at Dolmabahçe Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Büyük Mecidiye Mosque is a mosque with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,341 reviews.

Yıldız Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,811 visitors.

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

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Calipso Fish delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Sankai by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Arkestra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Rounder's Irish Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Beyoğlu 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 town.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Spice Bazaar. This extraordinary bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 visitors.

Next, make your way to Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 53,090 reviews.

While in Istanbul, we also recommend a visit to Grand Bazaar. This bazaar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 150,014 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Gülhane Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,194 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Istanbul.

Your discoveries in Beyoğlu do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Beyoğlu on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ulus 29, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Karga Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Just Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Drop by the renowned Topkapı Palace. This popular palace has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 97,459 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 1,932,726 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Hagia Sophia. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 visitors, this minor basilica deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Basilica Cistern. This palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71,523 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 local and international travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Istanbul has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Istanbul offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Resto Han, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Küçükçekmece, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar, 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 Kocaeli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Küçükçekmece, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Fatih. Your travel time is around 24 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Istanbul Aquarium. This much-appreciated public aquarium is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 33,724 reviews.

Set your GPS to Fatih and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Fatih beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 59,048 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kocaeli, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Marina Cafe Sekapark, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Romano Cafe Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cafe Kristo Izmit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kocaeli tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting 262 Live Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Babel Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Doping Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ankara, and Çankaya. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ankara, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ankara. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Anıtkabir is a great place to start. This mausoleum is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 120,860 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Independence Park. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Çankaya.

Make Seğmenler Parkı one of your first sightseeing stops in Çankaya. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,391 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Kuğulu Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,340 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Ankara. Ankara offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Filikos Restoran, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at MARTI RESTAURANT. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Muddy Waters, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Nil Rock Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. Always Rock Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Derinkuyu, Nevşehir, and Çavuşin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kayseri, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Derinkuyu, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ankara to Derinkuyu may take around 2 hours 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Derinkuyu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Derinkuyu Underground City. This underground city is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,231 visitors.

After soaking in Derinkuyu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nevşehir. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in Nevşehir, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Goreme Historical National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,907 reviews.

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

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

Dine in style at Hasan Usta Et Lokantası, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Taşmekan Et Lokantası boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Elvan Lokantası. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kayseri.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Kayseri, Uçhisar, and Kaymaklı. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Adana. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Drop by the renowned Kayseri Castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,971 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kayseri, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Uçhisar may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Uçhisar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Pigeon Valley Hotel. This extraordinary hotel has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,618 visitors.

Next, make your way to Uchisar Castle. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,117 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Adana, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Adana. 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 Hayal Kahvesi Adana, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? İştah Kebap offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kaktus Garden Cafe Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Adana.

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