4-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Kocaeli
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 4-day road trip through Turkey. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Istanbul and 1 night in Kocaeli. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Istanbul, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Hagia Sophia, learn more about the unique Topkapı Palace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Gülhane Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Istanbul, Kocaeli, Mudanya, and Bursa, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.
Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Istanbul - Arrival day
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- Sultanahmet Square
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Welcome to Istanbul, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Istanbul's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Istanbul is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sultanahmet Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Istanbul. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Istanbul, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Salute Pub & Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Erhan Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Istanbul.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Malt Bar Gayrettepe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Istanbul
- Kocaeli
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Drive 105 km, 2 hours 12 min
- Grand Bazaar
- Spice Bazaar
- Gülhane Park
- Topkapı Palace
- Hagia Sophia
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Istanbul. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kocaeli. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Grand Bazaar, a timeless market in the city. Then, head to Spice Bazaar and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich market.
There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul and when you are ready for more, go to Gülhane Park. This is one of the city’s most widely recognized spots. After exploring the park, visit the widely recognized Topkapı Palace. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the iconic Hagia Sophia, an iconic mosque in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kocaeli. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kocaeli. 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 Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.
Head back to your accommodation in Kocaeli and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 3
- Kocaeli
- Istanbul
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Drive 328 km, 4 hours 30 min
- Mudanya Armistice House
- Emir Sultan Mosque
- Green Tomb
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Mudanya and Bursa. 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.
Today's adventure in Kocaeli promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Mudanya Armistice House. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Emir Sultan Mosque, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Green Tomb, one of the town’s most often recommended attractions, known for its historic features.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Istanbul's best restaurants.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Reggae Br Shot & Food after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Just Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!
Day 4
- Istanbul - Departure day
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- Beyazıt Square
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Day 4 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Istanbul before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Beyazıt Square, a visually striking public square before you head out.
As your final day in Turkey unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Istanbul's best shopping area, Olive City Shopping Center. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Turkey.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Istanbul.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pierre Loti Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Istanbul. 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!
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