13-Day Turkey Road Trip from Izmir traveling east to Bursa, Süleymanpaşa, Istanbul, Bolu, Ankara, Eskişehir, and Denizli

Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Izmir and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Izmir for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Izmir is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Izmir. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Izmir. 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 Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bizim Lokanta offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Puerta Alsancak is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Izmir.

Continue your lively evening at Catch, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stone Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bonema Cafe & Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Turkey!

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Hisar Mosque is a great place to start. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,173 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Konak, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bursa. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Kemeraltı. This popular bazaar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,982 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Clock Tower Of İzmir. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,286 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Konak Square. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,737 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.

Savor the flavors at Kitap Evi Otel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tabipler Lokali beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Süleymanpaşa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Koza Han. This extraordinary bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,790 visitors.

Next, make your way to Bursa Grand Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 40,156 reviews.

While in Bursa, we also recommend a visit to Uludag National Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,535 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 24,970 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bursa.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Süleymanpaşa, 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 Süleymanpaşa. 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 Pikap, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Yandım Et Mangal offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Şadırvan Lokantası. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Süleymanpaşa.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Beyoğlu, and Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Süleymanpaşa’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 2 hours. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Galata Tower. This popular tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Beyoğlu, 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 10 min. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Gülhane Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Istanbul. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,194 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Spice Bazaar is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This bazaar is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Grand Bazaar. A trip to this popular bazaar is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 150,014 previous 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 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 an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rock Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Topkapı Palace. This palace is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Istanbul, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 97,459 visitors. Around 1,932,726 people visit this attraction every year.

Hagia Sophia is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 129,265 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Basilica Cistern. Visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71,523 reviews.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a mosque rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 95,369 reviews.

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.

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 delightful dinner at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ulus 29 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Karga Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Just Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Istanbul.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Üsküdar, and Fatih. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bolu, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Üsküdar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Fatih. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,341 reviews.

Yıldız Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,811 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Fatih. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 59,048 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 Bolu. Bolu 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 Bolu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hanımeli Yemek Salonu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kubbealti. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bolu.

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

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Atatürk Orman Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,777 reviews.

Continue your journey at Golcuk Nature Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,749 travelers from near and far.

After soaking in Bolu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sarıyar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 7 min. When you arrive in Sarıyar, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Lake Abant is a great place to start. This lake is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,703 visitors.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gaye Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Oklava. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Ankara, 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 2 nights.

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 2 hours 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Ankara Castle. Ankara Castle is a castle with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 reviews.

Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 visitors. In a single year, this national museum hosts approximately 450,000 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, 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.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Ankara, 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 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.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Muddy Waters after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Nil Rock Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Always Rock Bar 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.

On day 9 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ankara for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ankara, and Keçiören to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Kick off the day at Aqua Vega Aquarium, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 11,242 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Beştepe Millet Camii. Beştepe Millet Camii is a mosque with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,425 reviews.

Set your GPS to Keçiören and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Keçiören beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Atatürk Bahçesi, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,378 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Gökçek Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 4,243 reviews.

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

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

Dine in style at Golden Pavilion Museum, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Afganistan Sofrası boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ankara.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at On An On Rock Cafe, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fat Boy Bar & Grill, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Ankara, and Çankaya. 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.

Make Anıtkabir your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mausoleum an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 120,860 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Independence Park. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Metu Forest is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,747 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Çankaya, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Çankaya, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Kuğulu Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,340 reviews.

Continue your journey at Seğmenler Parkı. This park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,391 travelers from near and far.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kütahya, Uşak, and Merkezefendi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Denizli, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kütahya. This car ride takes around 1 hour 14 min.

Take the opportunity to see Kütahya Ulu Camii. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,834 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Kütahya, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Uşak. Your travel time is around 1 hour 50 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Atapark. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,890 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 Denizli. Denizli 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 Denizli's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Miske Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Denizli. If you're in the mood for something new, try Arif Usta Pide, Çorba & Izgara Salonu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Holly Stone. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Denizli.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Woops Cafe&bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Pub Locale Denizli Çamlık is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Belly provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Denizli, and Pamukkale. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Izmir, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Denizli Gondola. This extraordinary gondola lift is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,448 visitors.

Next, make your way to Bağbaşı Plateau. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,057 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Laodicea Ancient City. This point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,529 travelers.

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Travertines Of Pamukkale, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71,468 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Pamukkale South Gate. This parking has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,955 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Izmir, 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 Izmir. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish, and traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Sky Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Chaos Cafe Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Tattoo Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 13 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Izmir before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Izmir.

Have a fantastic dining experience at rePUBlic-izmir, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Moresi Girit Mutfağı offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Izmir. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!