14-Day Turkey Road Trip from Bursa to Istanbul, Kocaeli, Ankara, and Eskişehir

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Istanbul, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Make Pierre Loti Hill one of your first sightseeing stops in Istanbul. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,469 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Rumeli Fortress is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,751 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Emirgan Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 48,888 visitors.

After soaking in Fatih’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Istanbul. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 24 min. When you arrive in Istanbul, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This extraordinary mosque has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 59,048 visitors.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ulus 29. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

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

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gülhane Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,194 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Topkapı Palace. This palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,459 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 1,932,726 people visit it every year.

Grand Bazaar is another must-visit attraction. This renowned bazaar offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Spice Bazaar. This well-loved bazaar boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 168,628 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Süleymaniye Mosque awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a mosque, this is a top pick rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 previous visitors.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Istanbul has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Make sure to book a table at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Resto Han, 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 Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Istanbul tonight.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 95,369 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sultanahmet Square. Sultanahmet Square is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,594 reviews.

Basilica Cistern is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Hagia Sophia. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 visitors.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, 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 Hanzade Terrace Restaurant, 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 11 Kadıköy, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar, 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 Kocaeli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Üsküdar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Üsküdar beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Miniatürk. This much-appreciated miniature park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,484 reviews.

Next up is Galata Tower. This tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 172,160 visitors.

Üsküdar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Beyoğlu behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Üsküdar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Dolmabahçe Palace, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,341 travelers.

Yıldız Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,811 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Marina Cafe Sekapark, a highly-rated dining destination in Kocaeli. If you're eager to try something different, consider Romano Cafe Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Kristo Izmit. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kocaeli this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, 262 Live Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Babel Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Doping Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Greet day 10 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Ankara for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Ankara, and Çankaya.

Make Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,678 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Anıtkabir. With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 120,860 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this mausoleum every year.

Independence Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ankara and set your GPS to Çankaya. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Çankaya, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Kuğulu Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,340 visitors.

Seğmenler Parkı is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,391 travelers.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Ankara. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Golden Pavilion Museum, 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 Afganistan Sofrası, 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 Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at On An On Rock Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Fat Boy Bar & Grill offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Ankara. You have 1 night left in Ankara. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Haci Bayram Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,925 visitors.

When you’re finished at Haci Bayram Mosque, head to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This one-of-a-kind national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,978 reviews. Every year, approximately 450,000 travelers come here to experience the national museum for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Ankara Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,722 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,648 visitors.

Your discoveries in Ankara do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Ankara on this day of your trip. You can select your tours 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zaytung Zone, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Safranhan? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bogazici Lokantasi as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ankara.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Soul Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to O Ses Sensin - Karaoke for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Celt Irish Pub 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!

On day 13 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Odunpazarı, Eskişehir, and Tepebaşı. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Dede Korkut Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,037 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Odunpazarı.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,931 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bursa, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bursa. 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 wonderful meal at Titiz Izgara, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Opus Live Bursa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!