7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa traveling east to Kocaeli, Sakarya, 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 Kocaeli, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Bursa’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Orhan Gazi Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of Koza Han, a must-visit market in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Bursa Grand Mosque, a popular mosque.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kocaeli, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, an excellent option for tonight's dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kocaeli.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Eyüpsultan, Istanbul, and Fatih. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Sakarya. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a mosque, a park, and a market. Begin your adventure at Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This is a spectacular mosque you should not miss. Another must-see is Gülhane Park, an extraordinary park in Sakarya.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Spice Bazaar. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Süleymaniye Mosque, another of the town’s widely recognized attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Grand Bazaar, a standout place of interest in the town.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Istanbul by securing a table at Calipso Fish. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Sankai by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Arkestra, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for fusion cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Rounder's Irish Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Istanbul by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today's adventure in Istanbul promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Topkapı Palace. This breathtaking palace is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Hagia Sophia, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Basilica Cistern, one of the city’s most widely recognized attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Sultanahmet Square. This culturally significant public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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 delicious meal 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Reggae Br Shot & Food offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Just Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 Üsküdar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Galata Tower, a world-famous observation deck in the town. Then, head to Dolmabahçe Palace and soak in the ambiance of this romantic palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul and when you are ready for more, go to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This is one of the town’s most interesting spots.

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 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Kule Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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