13-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Denizli traveling north to Eskişehir, Bolu, Istanbul, Bursa, and Izmir

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, and Eskişehir. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bolu, where will spend 4 nights.

Make a stop at Dede Korkut Park. This intriguing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Eskişehir and set your GPS to Odunpazarı. 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 7 min. Upon reaching Odunpazarı, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark and explore the eye-catching features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tepebaşı. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, a frequently visited aviation museum in Tepebaşı. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This beloved zoo is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining spot in Bolu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kubbealti. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bolu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

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

Bolu is brimming with adventures.

Experience Atatürk Orman Park, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. Then, head to Orta Hamam and soak in the ambiance of this respected spa.

There are many interesting places to see in Bolu, and when you are ready for more, go to Beyazıt Cami. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile standout spots of interest. After exploring the mosque, visit the notable Golcuk Nature Park. Not far away, you'll also find Goksu Nature Park. This park is a romantic highlight in Bolu.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Turkey. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Dine in style at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri) boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bolu.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Üsküdar and Beyoğlu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bolu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Üsküdar. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 48 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Dolmabahçe Palace, a famous palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Ortaköy Square and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a locally renowned mosque beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Yıldız Park, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Üsküdar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Beyoğlu. This drive usually takes around 24 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Galata Tower, a timeless observation deck that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Istanbul. Check in and relax 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 a true cultural experience.

Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot in Istanbul for its delicious fusion cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Istanbul. Rounder's Irish Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Say good night to Istanbul and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!

Greet day 8 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Istanbul, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Fatih and Istanbul.

Fatih is brimming with adventures.

Let Spice Bazaar set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped market before continuing your journey. Grand Bazaar is your next stop. This globally renowned market is one of the best-rated sights in Istanbul.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Sultanahmet Square. This visually striking public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Istanbul may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Süleymaniye Mosque, a top-rated mosque known for its stunning features.

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

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

Dine in style at Mitani Cafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Divella Bistro Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Just Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

Day 9 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Denizli. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Visiting Basilica Cistern is always a good idea. This widely recognized archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Hagia Sophia, a must-see mosque 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 astonishing park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Topkapı Palace, where you can take in picture-perfect features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Turkey. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Pierre Loti Hotel, 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 By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 11 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Konak and Karabağlar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Izmir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Konak, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bursa to Konak may take around 3 hours 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Konak, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Hisar Mosque. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the mosque before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Kemeraltı. This popular market is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Clock Tower Of İzmir. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monument. Next, take your journey to Konak Square, a worthwhile square.

Set your GPS to Karabağlar and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Karabağlar beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is İzmir Historical Elevator Building. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Tavacı Recep Usta in Izmir by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Tavacı Recep Usta delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious turkish and traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Adil Müftüoğlu, acclaimed for its delectable turkish specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Catch, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stone Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Sky Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Izmir, Selçuk, and Pamukkale. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Denizli, where you'll spend 1 night.

Selçuk’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Izmir behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Selçuk welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a notable museum known for its eye-catching features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Pamukkale, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Selçuk to Pamukkale may take around 2 hours 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Travertines Of Pamukkale, a top-rated geothermal field in Pamukkale. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Denizli. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Denizli is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Denizli.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Akcesme Kokorec, a highly-rated dining destination in Denizli. If you're eager to try something different, consider ATA BREAD FACTORY, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at CAFE Pİ. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Denizli this evening.

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