6-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul to Sakarya, and Bursa

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 2 nights 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 Gülhane Park 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 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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rock Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Turkey!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned Hagia Sophia. This popular minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Basilica Cistern. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 visitors, this palace deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Sultanahmet Square. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 31,594 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 local and international travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Karga Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Just Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 Istanbul, and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sakarya, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Make Grand Bazaar one of your first sightseeing stops in Istanbul. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Süleymaniye Mosque is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This mosque is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 53,090 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Spice Bazaar. This bazaar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Topkapı Palace and find out why 1,932,726 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular palace is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 97,459 previous visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Istanbul and set your GPS to Beyoğlu. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 17 min. Upon reaching Beyoğlu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Galata Tower. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 visitors.

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 Sakarya. Sakarya 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sakarya. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Beytuş Hamburger & Pizza, a top-rated dining destination in Sakarya. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mono Cafe - Segafredo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Köfteci İsmail. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sakarya this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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 Bursa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sakarya, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bursa. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at İnkaya Historical Plane Tree. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 24,970 visitors.

When you’re finished at İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, head to Bursa Grand Mosque. This one-of-a-kind mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 40,156 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Koza Han. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 30,790 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Heykel. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,191 visitors.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bursa's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tabipler Lokali offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.

Continue your lively evening at My Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cemil ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bursa, and Yıldırım. 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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Green Tomb. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,396 visitors.

When you’re finished at Green Tomb, head to Emir Sultan Mosque. This one-of-a-kind mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 10,128 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Yıldırım.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Davut Dede Camii. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 597 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Istanbul, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Resto Han? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

Day 6 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Make Beyazıt Square one of your first sightseeing stops in Istanbul. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,152 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Istanbul.

Savor the flavors at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hanzade Terrace Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!