7-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling east to Bursa, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Kocaeli

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.

Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Grand Bazaar. This eye-catching market is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Basilica Cistern, a must-visit archeological site 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 Hagia Sophia, a globally renowned mosque. For a change of scene, check out Topkapı Palace, known for its picture-perfect features.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tabipler Lokali offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Abidin Usta is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.

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.

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

Dive into day 3 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 Eskişehir. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the increasingly popular Heykel, an eye-catching public square in Bursa. Next, go to Bursa Grand Mosque.

After visiting Heykel and Bursa Grand Mosque, have a stroll along Bursa's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Koza Han. This instagrammable market offers a unique experience. İnkaya Historical Plane Tree is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Emir Sultan Mosque, one of the most symbolic places to visit in Bursa.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Eskişehir. Eskişehir 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 Eskişehir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ciğerci Ahmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Oda Restoran offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Eskişehir.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Eskişehir, Tepebaşı, and Odunpazarı. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ankara, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Eskişehir is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a zoo, and an aviation museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Dede Korkut Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, a visually striking zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ankara, 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 Ankara's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Filikos Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Muddy Waters, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Nil Rock Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. Always Rock Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 - Afşar and Bolu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kocaeli. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Ankara, including a nature reserve, a mosque, a spa, a park and much more! Start your day at Religious Forest. This eye-catching nature reserve is an intriguing place to see in Ankara. Then, wander over to Beyazıt Cami. If eye-catching sites excite you, this mosque will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Orta Hamam. This romantic spa is a favorite among visitors.

Ankara offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Atatürk Orman Park is a frequently visited spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

As you explore more of Kocaeli, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated dining destination in Kocaeli.

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.