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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Metu Forest. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Ankara, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,747 visitors.

Anıtkabir is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 120,860 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,678 reviews.

Çansera Kent Bahçesi is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,648 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ankara and set your GPS to Çankaya. 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 42 min. Upon reaching Çankaya, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Seğmenler Parkı your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,391 reviews.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Golden Pavilion Museum, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Afganistan Sofrası beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ankara tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, On An On Rock Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fat Boy Bar & Grill is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Eskişehir, and Tepebaşı. 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 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dede Korkut Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,037 visitors.

Set your GPS to Tepebaşı and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Tepebaşı beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,091 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,847 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 Bursa. Bursa 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 Bursa's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kitap Evi Otel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tabipler Lokali offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bursa.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at My Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cemil is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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, Istanbul, and Fatih. 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 Bursa Grand Mosque. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 40,156 reviews.

Koza Han is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 30,790 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 24,970 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Istanbul. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pierre Loti Hill. This tea house is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Istanbul, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,469 visitors.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Arkestra, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering fusion menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Take the opportunity to see Spice Bazaar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 visitors.

Süleymaniye Mosque is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 travelers.

Istanbul is also the home of Grand Bazaar. Around 150,014 people have rated this bazaar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Gülhane Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 61,194 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Beyoğlu has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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 wonderful meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ulus 29. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Istanbul and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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.

Make Topkapı Palace one of your first sightseeing stops in Istanbul. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 97,459 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This palace attracts 1,932,726 visitors every year.

Hagia Sophia is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This minor basilica is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 129,265 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Basilica Cistern. This palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Sultan Ahmed Mosque. A trip to this popular mosque is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 95,369 previous visitors.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Dine in style at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Resto Han boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bolu, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Beyoğlu, 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 14 min.

Make Galata Tower one of your first sightseeing stops in Beyoğlu. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Üsküdar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Beyoğlu behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Üsküdar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Dolmabahçe Palace. This popular palace has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,834 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 visitors, this mosque deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Ortaköy Square. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,766 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Yıldız Park. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 local and international travelers.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bolu and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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 1 vibrant destinations - Ankara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bolu and set your GPS to Ankara. 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 2 hours 6 min. Upon reaching Ankara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ankara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,978 visitors. Up to 450,000 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Haci Bayram Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,925 visitors.

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.

As you explore more of Ankara, 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 Zaytung Zone, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Safranhan boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bogazici Lokantasi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ankara.

Keep the evening going at The Soul Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to O Ses Sensin - Karaoke, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Celt Irish Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!