5-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa traveling north to Istanbul and Bolu
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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 Bursa, 1 night in Istanbul, 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 Bursa, 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 Spice Bazaar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bursa, Istanbul, Bolu, and Beyoğlu, 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!
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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Bursa - arrival day
- Bursa - Arrival day
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- Heykel
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Say hello to Bursa! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bursa for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Bursa 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 Heykel or 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 Bursa. 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 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 delightful dinner at Kitap Evi Otel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tabipler Lokali? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Abidin Usta as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bursa.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like My Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cemil offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2 – Bursa and Istanbul
- Bursa
- Istanbul
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Drive 199 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Koza Han
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Han Brass
- Uludag National Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of 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.
Start your adventure at Koza Han. This popular market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bursa Grand Mosque located in Bursa for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Han Brass. After the point of interest, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Uludag National Park.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Istanbul. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Rounder's Irish Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Head back to your accommodation in Istanbul and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 3 – Istanbul and Bolu
- Istanbul
- Bolu
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Grand Bazaar
- Spice Bazaar
- Gülhane Park
- Topkapı Palace
- Hagia Sophia
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 Bolu. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings a picture-perfect, a standout, a romantic, a breathtaking, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a monumental. The first attraction of today is Grand Bazaar. This timeless market is a historic place to see in Istanbul. Continue your discovery at Spice Bazaar, a heritage-rich market with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Istanbul, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Gülhane Park. This extraordinary park offers a visually striking encounter with Istanbul. Topkapı Palace is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Istanbul.
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 Bolu. Bolu 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bolu's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanımeli Yemek Salonu is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kubbealti. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice 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, Istanbul, Beyoğlu, and Bursa
- Bolu
- Istanbul
- Beyoğlu
- Bursa
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Drive 422 km, 5 hours 25 min
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Sophia
- Galata Tower
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul and Beyoğlu, 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 Bursa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Istanbul’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bolu behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 54 min. Istanbul welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a top-rated mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Beyoğlu, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Istanbul to Beyoğlu may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Beyoğlu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Galata Tower, a world-famous observation deck that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bursa. 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 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, TANDIR'AZ BURSA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Labelle Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kule Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5 – Bursa - departure day
- Bursa - Departure day
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- Grand Mosque of Bursa
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Day 5 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bursa before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Turkey and go on a shopping spree in Bursa’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Turkey.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bursa.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Fayton Kafe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Titiz Izgara offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bursa. 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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