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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Istanbul by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

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 Süleymaniye Mosque. A trip to this popular mosque is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.9 out of 5-star rating as given by 53,090 previous visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Arkestra, a local gem known for its delightful fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Karga Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Istanbul. You have 2 nights left in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 95,369 visitors.

Next, make your way to Sultanahmet Square. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,594 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Grand Bazaar. This bazaar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Spice Bazaar. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Istanbul on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Savor the flavors at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Resto Han beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Istanbul tonight.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

After soaking in Üsküdar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beyoğlu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,341 reviews.

Continue your journey at Yıldız Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,811 travelers from near and far.

Üsküdar is also the home of Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 77,834 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beyoğlu. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Galata Bridge. This bascule bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,633 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fatih. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Make Eyüp Sultan Mosque one of your first sightseeing stops in Fatih. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 59,048 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

Dine in style at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hanzade Terrace Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out 11 Kadıköy. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 5 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Upon reaching Bursa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Han Brass. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,719 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Bursa Grand Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 40,156 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Koza Han. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,790 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Orhan Gazi Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 993 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 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.

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 Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

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.

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

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Bursa City Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,057 visitors.

Next, make your way to Heykel. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,191 reviews.

While in Bursa, we also recommend a visit to İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 24,970 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gölyazı, 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 Bursa to Gölyazı may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gölyazı, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Ağlayan Çınar, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 14,658 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Gölyazı Sahil is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,271 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Abidin Usta, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss TANDIR'AZ BURSA. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bursa.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kule Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bursa, and Yıldırım. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Eskişehir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Green Tomb. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,396 reviews.

Next up is Emir Sultan Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 10,128 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Sultan's Mansion Museum. This museum has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,220 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Yıldırım and set your GPS to Bursa. 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 9 min. Upon reaching Bursa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Davut Dede Camii. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 597 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Eskişehir, 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 Eskişehir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Ciğerci Ahmet, a popular restaurant in Eskişehir. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Eskişehir at Oda Restoran, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Tatlıdil Köftecisi. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Eskişehir tonight.

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Ankara for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Çansera Kent Bahçesi. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,648 visitors.

Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,678 visitors.

Anıtkabir is also highly recommended by travelers. This mausoleum has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 120,860 visitors.

Independence Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is 50th Year Park. This park has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,183 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Ankara, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Ankara below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ankara. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Golden Pavilion Museum, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Afganistan Sofrası offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ankara.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into On An On Rock Cafe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fat Boy Bar & Grill, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Ankara. You’ll stay in Ankara for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Haci Bayram Mosque your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,925 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this national museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 450,000 annual visitors.

Ankara Castle is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,722 visitors.

When you’re finished at Ankara Castle, the perfect next stop is Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

You can learn more about Ankara today by going on a tour. Ankara offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Zaytung Zone, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Safranhan, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bogazici Lokantasi, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at The Soul Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. O Ses Sensin - Karaoke is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Celt Irish Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bolu. 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 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Atatürk Orman Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,777 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Upper Stone Inn. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 547 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Golcuk Nature Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,749 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Akkaya Travertenleri. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 3,978 local and international travelers.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop, 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 The Harp Irish Pub, 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 Faros Restaurant Old City, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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