5-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa
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 Istanbul and 2 nights in Bursa. 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. 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 Istanbul, Bursa, Odunpazarı, Eskişehir, Tepebaşı, Eyüpsultan, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Istanbul - Arrival day
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- Sultanahmet Square
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Istanbul and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Istanbul. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Make sure to book a table at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, 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 Salute Pub & Restaurant, 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 Erhan Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Istanbul tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Malt Bar Gayrettepe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Rounder's Irish Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Istanbul
- Bursa
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Drive 168 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Sophia
- Grand Bazaar
- Spice Bazaar
- Gülhane Park
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Istanbul is home to plenty of attractions that offer a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a historic, a culturally significant, a symbolic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a charming! Start at Sultan Ahmed Mosque, an astonishing mosque that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Hagia Sophia, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Grand Bazaar. This market is one of the city’s most iconic spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Istanbul at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Spice Bazaar. After exploring the market, head to the extraordinary Gülhane Park. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
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 you explore more of Bursa, 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 Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tabipler Lokali is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Abidin Usta. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bursa tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting My Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cemil also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 3
- Bursa
- Odunpazarı
- Eskisehir
- Tepebaşı
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Drive 314 km, 4 hours 32 min
- Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark
- Dede Korkut Park
- Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bursa for your remaining 1 night 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 Odunpazarı, Eskişehir, Tepebaşı, and Bursa.
Today’s route brings an enchanting, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a stunning, and a majestic. The first attraction of today is Bursa Grand Mosque. This notable mosque is a stunning place to see in Bursa.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Odunpazarı. This car ride takes around 1 hour 59 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a captivating park that draws visitors from near and far.
Set your GPS to Eskişehir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Eskişehir beckons with new experiences!
Dede Korkut Park is an intriguing park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’ve had your share of Eskişehir, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Tepebaşı. Your travel time is around 10 min.
Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo is an underrated zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bursa and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Bursa, 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.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kule Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference.
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
- Bursa
- Eyüpsultan
- Beyoğlu
- Istanbul
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Drive 216 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Koza Han
- Uludag National Park
- Miniatürk
- Galata Tower
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bursa, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bursa. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Koza Han is the perfect place to start. This market is one of the most popular places to visit in Bursa.
When you’ve had your share of Bursa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Eyüpsultan. Your travel time is around 2 hours 20 min.
Make your way to Miniatürk, a captivating museum that draws attention for its detailed features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Eyüpsultan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Beyoğlu. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering Galata Tower, a wondrous observation deck known for its history-steeped features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Istanbul. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Istanbul's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Just Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.
Head back to your accommodation in Istanbul and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 5
- Istanbul - Departure day
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- Beyazıt Square
- Hagia Sophia
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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 Istanbul before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in Turkey unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Istanbul's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Turkey.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Istanbul today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Beyazıt Square. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
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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