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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Bursa, 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 Kocaeli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Orhan Gazi Mosque, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 993 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Koza Han. Koza Han is a bazaar with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,790 reviews.

Bursa Grand Mosque is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 40,156 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Han Brass. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,719 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, a famous sightseeing destination in Bursa. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 24,970 travelers.

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

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 delightful dinner at Marina Cafe Sekapark, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Romano Cafe Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cafe Kristo Izmit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kocaeli.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at 262 Live Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Babel Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Doping Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 3 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 Bolu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sakarya, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kocaeli, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bolu. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 51 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Akkaya Travertenleri. This attraction has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 3,978 visitors.

Golcuk Nature Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,749 travelers.

Bolu is also the home of Atatürk Orman Park. Around 2,777 people have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Beytuş Hamburger & Pizza, a highly-rated dining destination in Sakarya. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mono Cafe - Segafredo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Köfteci İsmail. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sakarya this evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Istanbul. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beyoğlu. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Galata Tower, a remarkable tower where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beyoğlu and set your GPS to Istanbul. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Istanbul, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Gülhane Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,194 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Spice Bazaar. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 visitors, this bazaar deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 53,090 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Grand Bazaar. This bazaar and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 local and international travelers.

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.

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.

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.

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

On day 5 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.

Kick off the day at Topkapı Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 1,932,726 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 97,459 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Hagia Sophia. Hagia Sophia is a minor basilica with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 129,265 reviews.

Basilica Cistern is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 95,369 visitors.

Your discoveries in Istanbul do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Istanbul on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As you explore more of Istanbul, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ulus 29. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Karga Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar, Beyoğlu, 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.

After soaking in Üsküdar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beyoğlu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, 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.

After soaking in Üsküdar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beyoğlu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Galata Bridge is a great place to start. This bascule bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,633 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Abidin Usta, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at TANDIR'AZ BURSA. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

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.

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