13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Istanbul, Kocaeli, Ankara, and Eskişehir

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bursa. You’ll stay in Bursa for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your adventure at Koza Han. This well-known market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bursa Grand Mosque located in Bursa for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Han Brass.

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 Bursa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Labelle Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kule Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bursa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Bursa on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated monument, Green Tomb. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit.

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.

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.

Begin 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.

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.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Beyoğlu. You have 2 nights left in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Istanbul is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Spice Bazaar, a wondrous market that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Grand Bazaar, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Sultanahmet Square. This public square is one of the town’s most notable spots.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pierre Loti Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Istanbul.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Eyüpsultan and Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kocaeli, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Istanbul promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Emirgan Park. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eyüpsultan. This car ride takes around 21 min.

Head to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a widely recognized mosque in Eyüpsultan. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Pierre Loti Hill. This popular observation deck is a top recommendation in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kocaeli, 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 Kocaeli, 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 Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a highly-rated dining destination in Kocaeli.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Bolu, 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 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Bolu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bolu beckons with new experiences!

Kadı Mosque is an intriguing mosque we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to Beyazıt Cami, a culturally significant mosque that’s well-regarded in the area.

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.

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 wonderful meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Filikos Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

Keep the evening going at The Muddy Waters, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Nil Rock Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Always Rock Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 10 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Ankara for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Ankara today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Metu Forest. This peaceful park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Anıtkabir and learn what makes this instagrammable monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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 Ankara's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a popular restaurant in Ankara. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ankara at Zaytung Zone, 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 Bade'M Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ankara tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Fat Boy Bar & Grill, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, 21 Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Soul Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!