7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Istanbul and Eskişehir and surrounding area

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 Beyoğlu and Istanbul. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Start by visiting Galata Tower, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking observation deck is sure to impress. Next on your list is Gülhane Park, another must-visit landmark and impressive park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bursa by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Hagia Sophia. This picture-perfect mosque is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bursa experience. We also recommend visiting Basilica Cistern, an impressive 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 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.

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

Continue your lively evening at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Rounder's Irish Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 2 nights left in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set aside time today to explore Sultanahmet, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Get ready for an exciting day in Istanbul. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a palace, a mosque, a public square, a market and much more! Begin your adventure at Topkapı Palace. This is an impressive palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Sultan Ahmed Mosque, an impressive mosque in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sultanahmet Square. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Grand Bazaar, another of the city’s world-famous attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a culturally significant place of interest in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Istanbul and your accommodation.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mitani Cafe, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Divella Bistro Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.

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

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.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Fatih, Istanbul, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. You still have 1 night left in Istanbul.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Süleymaniye Mosque, a famous mosque in the town. Then, head to Spice Bazaar and soak in the ambiance of this historic market.

After exploring the bascule bridge, visit the extraordinary Dolmabahçe Palace. Not far away, you'll also find Yıldız Park. This park is an eye-catching highlight in Istanbul. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a popular mosque in the town.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 4 vibrant destinations - Karacaşehir, Eskişehir, Tepebaşı, and Odunpazarı. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Eskişehir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Istanbul. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a park, an aviation museum, a mosque and much more! Begin your adventure at Odunpazarı Botanik Park. This is a frequently visited botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Dede Korkut Park, a frequently visited park in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, another of the village’s interesting attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Alaeddin Mosque, a stunning place of interest in the village.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Eskişehir. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated dining destination in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Oda Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Eskişehir this evening.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Kütahya and Çavdarhisar, 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.

Eskişehir is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a mosque, a castle, and an archeological site. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Tatvacilar Mosque and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Kütahya Ulu Camii, a standout mosque that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Kütahya Castle, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Aizanoi. When you're finished at the archeological site, Aizanoi - Temple Of Zeus awaits your visit. This archeological site is a historic highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bursa. Bursa offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bursa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, TANDIR'AZ BURSA beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Labelle Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kule Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!