Two-Week Turkey Road Trip from Bursa to Istanbul, Bolu, Yalova, and Izmir and surrounding area

On day 2 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, and Osmangazi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Koza Han. This extraordinary bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 30,790 visitors.

Next, make your way to Bursa Grand Mosque. This top attraction is a mosque with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 40,156 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Han Brass. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,719 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Uludag National Park. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,535 travelers.

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

Kick off the day at Karagoz Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,037 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 Istanbul. Istanbul 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 Istanbul's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Discover the culinary delights of Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Arkestra, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering fusion menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rock Pub, 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.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 3 nights left in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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 23 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.

When you’ve had your share of Üsküdar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beyoğlu. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Make Galata Tower one of your first sightseeing stops in Beyoğlu. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Miniatürk is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This miniature park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,484 reviews.

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

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

Dine in style at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ulus 29. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Karga Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Just Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Day 4 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 95,369 reviews.

Sultanahmet Square 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 31,594 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Basilica Cistern. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71,523 reviews.

Hagia Sophia is another outstanding experience in Istanbul. Around 129,265 travelers have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Make Topkapı Palace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 97,459 reviews. More than 1,932,726 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Gülhane Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,194 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Spice Bazaar is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 visitors.

When you’re finished at Spice Bazaar, the perfect next stop is Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 53,090 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Grand Bazaar. This bazaar is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 reviews.

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.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bolu, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Fatih, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Beyoğlu. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Eyüp Sultan Mosque is a great place to start. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 59,048 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Fatih, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Beyoğlu may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Beyoğlu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Galata Bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bascule bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,633 reviews.

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

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.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bolu has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Bolu by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Golcuk Nature 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 16,749 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Atatürk Orman Park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,777 travelers.

Your discoveries in Bolu do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Bolu 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 Bolu. 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 Gaye Otel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Oklava as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bolu.

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

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,395 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Karabağlar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Konak. This drive usually takes around 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Güzelyali Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,720 reviews.

Set your GPS to Konak 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. Konak beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Konak Square. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,737 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Konak Mosque. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,868 visitors, this mosque deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Clock Tower Of İzmir. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,286 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Molly Malone's Irish Pub Alsancak, a top-rated dining destination in Izmir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SELİM DE ÇEŞME KUMRU TOST SANDVİÇ IZGARA KÖFTE KONAK ÇEŞME KUMRU. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Izmir this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Sky Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Chaos Cafe Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Izmir. Tattoo Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 12 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Didim, and Selçuk. You still have 2 nights left in Izmir.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Didim. This car ride takes around 2 hours 3 min.

Journey into the unknown at Altınkum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable mahalle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 22,646 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Temple Of Apollo is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,026 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Didim and set your GPS to Selçuk. 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 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Selçuk, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Library Of Celsus. This extraordinary library is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,274 visitors.

Next, make your way to The Temple Of Artemis. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,284 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Izmir, 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 lovely meal at rePUBlic-izmir, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Moresi Girit Mutfağı is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cumba. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Izmir tonight.

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

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.