5-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara traveling west to Kocaeli and Bolu
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-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 Ankara, 1 night in Kocaeli, and 1 night in Bolu. 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 Ankara, 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. Galata Tower and Anıtkabir are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dolmabahçe Palace, learn more about the unique Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Yıldız Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Çankaya, Ankara, Kocaeli, Beyoğlu, Üsküdar, Bolu, and Altındağ, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Ankara - Arrival day
- More
- Kuğulu Park
- More
Welcome to Ankara, 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 Ankara's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Ankara 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 Kuğulu Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Ankara. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Ankara, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Filikos Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Muddy Waters stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Nil Rock Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Always Rock Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Ankara
- Kocaeli
- More
Drive 400 km, 5 hours 20 min
- Seğmenler Parkı
- Anıtkabir
- METU Forest
- MTA Sehit Cuma Dag Natural History Museum
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Çankaya and 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 Kocaeli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Seğmenler Parkı. This notable park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Anıtkabir, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Metu Forest, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Ankara. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. Wander around and soak in the heritage-rich atmosphere this museum offers.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kocaeli. Kocaeli offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, an iconic dining spot in Kocaeli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!
Day 3
- Kocaeli
- Bolu
- More
Drive 366 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Galata Tower
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque)
- Yıldız Park
- More
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 Beyoğlu and Üsküdar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bolu, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Kocaeli is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an observation deck, a palace, a mosque, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Galata Tower. Just a short distance away is Dolmabahçe Palace, a majestic palace that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, one of the town’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Yıldız Park.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bolu. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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 lovely dining experience at ANTEP SOFRASI, a popular restaurant in Bolu. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bolu at Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Kubbealti. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bolu tonight.
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 4
- Bolu
- Ankara
- More
Drive 222 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Golcuk Nature Park
- Atatürk Orman Park
- Haci Bayram Mosque
- Ulucanlar Prison Museum
- Ankara Castle
- More
On day 4 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 Bolu and Altındağ. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bolu, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Golcuk Nature Park, a notable park in the city. Then, head to Atatürk Orman Park and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.
There are many interesting places to see in Bolu and when you are ready for more, go to Haci Bayram Mosque. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots. After exploring the mosque, visit the captivating Ulucanlar Prison Museum. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the locally renowned Ankara Castle, a locally renowned castle in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Ankara, 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 Ankara's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Golden Pavilion Museum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Afganistan Sofrası. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ankara tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. On An On Rock Cafe is an excellent place to start. You could also check out London Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!
Day 5
- Ankara - Departure day
- More
- Independence Park
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ankara 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 Independence Park, a picture-perfect park before you head out.
As your final day in Turkey unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Ankara's best shopping area, Armada Shopping Center. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Turkey. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Ankara.
You’ll then say farewell to Ankara. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Turkey
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.