6-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Izmir, and Yalova

On day 2 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Grand Bazaar, a remarkable bazaar where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 150,014 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sultanahmet Square. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,594 travelers.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque is another must-visit attraction. This renowned mosque offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 95,369 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Hagia Sophia. This well-loved minor basilica boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 129,265 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Spice Bazaar awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a bazaar, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 previous 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.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Kitap Evi Otel, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bursa at Tabipler Lokali, 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 Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bursa tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, My Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cemil is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Say good night to Bursa and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Konak, Karabağlar, and Izmir, 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 Izmir. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Konak. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kemeraltı. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,982 visitors.

Clock Tower Of İzmir is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,286 visitors.

Konak Square is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,737 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Konak, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Karabağlar may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Karabağlar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,807 reviews.

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 Izmir. Izmir 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 Izmir's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional turkish, and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Izmir, Adil Müftüoğlu shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious turkish cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Catch is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Stone Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bonema Cafe & Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable 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 - Üsküdar, 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.

After soaking in Yalova’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Üsküdar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 15 min. When you arrive in Üsküdar, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This much-appreciated mosque is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,341 reviews.

Next up is Yıldız Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beyoğlu. This car ride takes around 18 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Miniatürk. Previous visitors have rated this miniature park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,484 reviews.

Galata Tower is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Istanbul by reserving a table at Calipso Fish. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Sankai by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Arkestra, a local favorite known for its delightful fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning fusion foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Karga Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Just Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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.