6-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Bolu and Istanbul

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 Bolu, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Bursa on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Koza Han is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich market before continuing your journey. Bursa Grand Mosque is your next stop. This popular mosque is one of the best-rated sights in Bursa.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Han Brass. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Uludag National Park.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bolu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bolu and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bolu 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 Ankara, Altındağ, and Çankaya.

When you’ve had your share of Bolu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ankara. Your travel time is around 2 hours 4 min.

Begin your journey at Anıtkabir and explore the breathtaking features.

Set your GPS to Altındağ and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Altındağ beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Independence Park, a captivating park that everyone visiting Altındağ should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Çankaya, 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 Altındağ to Çankaya may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Çankaya, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kuğulu Park, a well-known park known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Seğmenler Parkı, an interesting park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

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 wonderful meal at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, a top-rated dining spot in Bolu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Oklava, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bolu Hanzade Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bolu.

Head back to your accommodation in Bolu and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Beyoğlu and Istanbul. 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.

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 Bolu to Beyoğlu may take around 2 hours 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Beyoğlu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Galata Tower, a wondrous observation deck that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Istanbul. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Topkapı Palace. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the palace before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Hagia Sophia. This world-famous mosque is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Basilica Cistern. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Calipso Fish offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Sankai by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Arkestra, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional fusion menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Malt Bar Gayrettepe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Rounder's Irish Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.

On day 5 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 Istanbul and Fatih. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the iconic Grand Bazaar, an instagrammable market in Istanbul. Next, go to Spice Bazaar.

After visiting Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, take time to explore Istanbul's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Gülhane Park. This enchanting park offers a unique experience. Sultan Ahmed Mosque is another noteworthy stop.

When you arrive in Fatih, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Süleymaniye Mosque, a top-rated mosque 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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bursa. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a highly-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're eager to try something different, consider TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Labelle Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kule Pub is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!