Relaxed 14-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara to Eskişehir, Istanbul, and Bolu

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Turkey means 24 hours of making the best memories in Ankara. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Ankara. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Ankara!

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Ankara. Begin your sightseeing with Metu Forest. This frequently visited park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Ankara, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Çansera Kent Bahçesi. This curiosity-inducing park is a traveler-favorite.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Turkey by joining a traveler-approved tour in Ankara. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Ankara that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Turkey more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Ankara to find the best options for you!

Bring home unique finds from Ankara's bustling shopping hub, Armada Shopping Center. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Armada Shopping Center offers plenty of options, including a cinema, restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Ankara has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zaytung Zone, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bade'M Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Turkey.

Keep the evening going at Fat Boy Bar & Grill, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to 21 Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Soul Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Turkey.

On day 5 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Turkey. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Turkey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fatih. This car ride takes around 1 hour 51 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Laleli Mosque, a notable mosque that draws visitors from near and far.

When you arrive in Istanbul, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Beyazıt Square, a notable public square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Grand Bazaar, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Istanbul in this laid-back road trip in Turkey. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Istanbul has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Arkestra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Iznik can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Turkey!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Istanbul, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Turkey are extraordinary.

Start by visiting Topkapı Palace, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Istanbul Archaeological Museums, another must-visit landmark and captivating museum renowned for its standout features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Istanbul by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Gülhane Park. This history-steeped park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Sultanahmet Square also adds charm to your journey, and Çemberlitaş Hamamı wraps up your day with its picture-perfect appeal.

Turkey makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Turkey also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Istanbul offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mitani Cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Divella Bistro Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Istanbul.

Continue your lively evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Just Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Turkey!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Turkey gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Beyoğlu. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bolu, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 5 nights.

After soaking in Beyoğlu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Üsküdar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Üsküdar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Galata Tower is a timeless observation deck we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beyoğlu and set your GPS to Üsküdar. 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 14 min. Upon reaching Üsküdar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dolmabahçe Palace, an extraordinary palace known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, an interesting mosque that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bolu. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bolu, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bolu and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Turkey.

Day 13 of your self-drive tour in Turkey is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Ankara for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Turkey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bolu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Altındağ. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Ulucanlar Prison Museum, an interesting museum that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Ankara Castle, a stunning castle that stands out in the town. Next, visit Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a notable museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Haci Bayram Mosque, a nearby mosque, which is highly recommended by other travelers.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Turkey at Ankara. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Turkey. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Ankara, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe des Cafes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Masabaşı Kebapçısı offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Şehir Kebapçısı is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ankara.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Ankara.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Zula Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, James Cook Cafe, Pub & Restaurant offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. O Ses Sensin - Karaoke is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Turkey!