7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa traveling north to Kocaeli and Istanbul

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Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Turkey. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bursa, 3 nights in Kocaeli, and 1 night in Istanbul. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Bursa, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Galata Tower and Spice Bazaar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Grand Bazaar, learn more about the unique Hagia Sophia, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Topkapı Palace.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bursa, Kocaeli, Bolu, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, and Fatih, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.

Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Heykel
Orhan Gazi MosqueKoza HanGrand Mosque of BursaHan Brassİnkaya Historical Plane Tree
Tomb of Hayreddin-i TokadıAkkaya TravertenleriAtatürk Orman Park
Orta HamamBeyazıt CamiYukarı TaşhanGolcuk Nature Park
Galata TowerSultan Ahmed MosqueHagia SophiaBasilica Cistern
Grand BazaarSüleymaniye MosqueSpice BazaarGülhane ParkTopkapı Palace
Mehmet Abdal Tomb

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bursa - Arrival day
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  • Heykel
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Welcome to Bursa, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bursa's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bursa 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 Heykel, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bursa. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bursa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tabipler Lokali, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Abidin Usta. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting My Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cemil also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Turkey!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bursa
  • Kocaeli
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Drive 146 km, 2 hours 6 min

  • Orhan Gazi Mosque
  • Koza Han
  • Grand Mosque of Bursa
  • Han Brass
  • İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bursa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kocaeli. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Bursa promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Orhan Gazi Mosque. This photogenic mosque is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Koza Han, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Bursa Grand Mosque, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, highly recommended for tonight's dining.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Kocaeli
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Drive 343 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Tomb of Hayreddin-i Tokadı
  • Akkaya Travertenleri
  • Atatürk Orman Park
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Kocaeli for your remaining 2 nights 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 Bolu.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the worthwhile Tomb Of Hayreddin-i Tokadı, a standout monument in Kocaeli. Next, go to Akkaya Travertenleri.

After visiting Tomb Of Hayreddin-i Tokadı and Akkaya Travertenleri, take time to explore Kocaeli's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Atatürk Orman Park. This romantic park offers a unique experience.

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

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Kocaeli
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Drive 349 km, 4 hours 23 min

  • Orta Hamam
  • Beyazıt Cami
  • Yukarı Taşhan
  • Golcuk Nature Park
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On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Kocaeli, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Kocaeli for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bolu to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Orta Hamam is must-visit spa and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Beyazıt Cami, a locally appreciated mosque, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Upper Stone Inn, a photogenic sightseeing destination, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Kocaeli. If you’re looking for more, Golcuk Nature Park is also an interesting attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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

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.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Kocaeli
  • Istanbul
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Drive 111 km, 2 hours 10 min

  • Galata Tower
  • Sultan Ahmed Mosque
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Basilica Cistern
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Beyoğlu and Istanbul, 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 Istanbul. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Kocaeli. Your adventure starts at Galata Tower, an iconic local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This astonishing mosque is known for its culturally significant appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Kocaeli's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Hagia Sophia. This historic mosque offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Basilica Cistern is also worth visiting.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Malt Bar Gayrettepe. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Istanbul
  • Bursa
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Drive 160 km, 2 hours 59 min

  • Grand Bazaar
  • Süleymaniye Mosque
  • Spice Bazaar
  • Gülhane Park
  • Topkapı Palace
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Istanbul and Fatih. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Istanbul, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Grand Bazaar, a wondrous market in the city. Then, head to Süleymaniye Mosque and soak in the ambiance of this stunning mosque.

There are many interesting places to see in Istanbul and when you are ready for more, go to Spice Bazaar. This is one of the city’s most wondrous spots. After exploring the market, visit the famous Gülhane Park. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the famous Topkapı Palace, a famous palace in the city.

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 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 top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Labelle Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Keep the evening going at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kule Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bursa - Departure day
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  • Mehmet Abdal Tomb
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Day 7 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bursa before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Mehmet Abdal Tomb, a photogenic monument before you head out.

On your last day in Turkey, take time to indulge in shopping at Bursa’s popular marketplace, Koza Hani. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bursa. 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!

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