7-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Izmir, and Yalova
Description
Summary
Description
Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 7-day road trip through Turkey.
This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Turkey. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 2 nights in Istanbul, 1 night in Bursa, 2 nights in Izmir, and 1 night in Yalova, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Turkey. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir, and Yalova. We'll help you experience the best 7 days in Turkey you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.
Upon arriving in Istanbul, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Turkey, including the stunning Galata Tower and Hagia Sophia.
You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.
Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Turkey. From the magnificent Spice Bazaar to the breathtaking Grand Bazaar and Topkapı Palace, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. Make sure to marvel at the remarkable Dolmabahçe Palace and learn more about the unique Gülhane Park to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. As you hit the open road and drive through Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir, and Yalova, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.
Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Turkey. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Turkey.
Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Turkey.
You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Turkey has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.
You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.
Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Turkey. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 6 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 6 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.
You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Turkey extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.
The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Turkey today!
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Day 1 – Istanbul - arrival day
Day 1 – Istanbul - arrival day
- Istanbul - Arrival day
- More
- Sultanahmet Square
- More
Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 2 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.
Istanbul has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Sultanahmet Square. This attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30,938 visitors.
When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.
When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Istanbul, Hanzade Terrace Restaurant. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 5,898 customers.
Another of the best restaurants in the city of Istanbul is Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 3,913 customers.
Locals recommend Garden Mezze | Steakhouse Restaurant | Fine Dining | Top Turkish Restaurant | Seafood | Breakfast as one of the best restaurants in the city of Istanbul. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 1,884 customers.
Istanbul also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Istanbul is Arch Bistro. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 798 customers.
Another of the best bars in the city of Istanbul is Flekk. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 576 customers.
Locals also enjoy Harab'be Cafe. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 2,610 customers.
Enjoy toasting the start of your 7-day vacation in Turkey!
Experiences
Day 2 – Bursa
Day 2 – Bursa
- Istanbul
- Bursa
- More
Drive 170 km, 3 hours 13 min
- Grand Bazaar
- Hagia Sophia
- Gülhane Park
- Topkapı Palace
- Spice Bazaar
- More
Day 2 of your road trip through Turkey gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Istanbul and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Bursa. You will stay in Bursa for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!
One of the best places to visit today in Istanbul is the amazing Grand Bazaar. This attraction is a bazaar that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 145,525 visitors.
You could also stop at the incredible minor basilica, Hagia Sophia. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 127,439 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.
Another unforgettable travel destination in the Istanbul is the outstanding Gülhane Park. This popular park and travel destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 59,778 visitors.
The spectacular Topkapı Palace is another popular attraction you can visit today. This fascinating palace and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,040 visitors. In addition, approximately 1,932,726 travelers visit this popular site annually.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the fantastic Spice Bazaar. This attraction is a popular bazaar that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,946 visitors.
You can make the most of your new day in Istanbul by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Turkey. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.
At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Bursa, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.
After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Uzan Et Mangal, one of the best restaurants in the city of Bursa. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,360 customers.
Locals also recommend Kebapçı Hüseyin Usta as one of the best restaurants in the city of Bursa. Kebapçı Hüseyin Usta is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,308 customers.
Another of the best restaurants in the city of Bursa is Fikret Balık Restoran & Balık Market. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,924 customers.
After dinner, visit Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Bursa. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 834 customers.
You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Newcastle Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,399 customers.
Alternatively, Cemil is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Bursa. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 836 customers.
Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Turkey!
Experiences
Day 3 – Karabağlar, Konak, and Izmir
Day 3 – Karabağlar, Konak, and Izmir
- Izmir
- More
Drive 365 km, 4 hours 13 min
- Kemeraltı
- İzmir Tarihi Asansör Binası
- Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi
- Clock Tower of İzmir
- Konak Square
- More
Rise and shine on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you'll wake up in Bursa and embark on a scenic drive to Izmir, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 2 nights. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Bursa and Konak before you reach your end destination for the day.
It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Bursa. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,215 visitors.
Wave goodbye to Karabağlar and continue your journey by car. If you want to break up today’s drive into two, take the opportunity to stop and discover what the city of Konak has to offer.
One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Kemeraltı. This attraction is a bazaar that has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,496 visitors.
If you want to explore more, visit the incredible Clock Tower of İzmir. This best-rated sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,756 reviews.
Another site you could visit today is the top-rated Konak Square. This square and travel destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,681 visitors.
When you're done with your sightseeing in Konak, it's time to continue your drive to the city of Izmir. When you arrive in Izmir you’ll check in at one of the best hotels in the area.
We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like SWISSOTEL BUYUK EFES IZMIR. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,410 customers.
Locals also recommend Kokorecci Asim Usta, another of the best restaurants in Izmir. Kokorecci Asim Usta is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,892 customers.
If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at Sevinç Pastanesi - Alsancak. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,961 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.
After dinner, visit La Puerta Alsancak to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Izmir, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,986 customers.
You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like La Cigale Alsancak. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. La Cigale Alsancak has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,445 customers.
Eko Pub is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,387 customers.
End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Turkey, and look forward to more great days to come!
Experiences
Day 4 – Didim, Kuşadası, and Izmir
Day 4 – Didim, Kuşadası, and Izmir
- Kuşadası
- Izmir
- More
Drive 350 km, 5 hours 9 min
- Altinkum Beach
- Temple of Apollo
- Ladies Beach
- El Heykeli
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Izmir, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
One of the best travel destinations in the town of Kuşadası is Ladies Beach. This amazing attraction is a top-tier point of interest and has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,391 visitors.
El Heykeli is another popular attraction you could visit in the town of Kuşadası. As one of the best-rated attractions in the area, El Heykeli has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,598 visitors.
You can also make your new day in Turkey more epic with one of the most popular tours you can take part in today. The tour allows travelers to experience the enjoyment of exploring some of Turkey’s most popular attractions and hidden treasures. Make sure to check out all options below to find the perfect adventure for you.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation near the city of Izmir.
When you arrive, we recommend eating at a restaurant that locals enjoy, like Bostanlı Tuzu Biberi -Kahvaltı Bistro Cafe. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,160 customers.
AKIN'IN YERİ BALIK RESTAURANT is one of the top restaurants in the city of Izmir. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,194 customers.
Another of the best restaurants in the city of Izmir is Ristorante Pizzeria Venedik. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,262 customers.
After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city of Izmir, Yolo Art&Lounge. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 726 customers.
If you’d prefer one of the top bar experiences that locals enjoy in the city of Izmir, we recommend the cocktails at Peruş'un Meyhane Lezzetleri ~ Çeşme Ciğercisi. This bar has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 220 customers.
Another of the best bars in the city of Izmir is Yüzde Yüz Food & Drink & Grill. This bar is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 1,410 customers.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day in the city of Izmir!
Experiences
Day 5 – Izmir and Yalova
Day 5 – Izmir and Yalova
- Izmir
- Yalova
- More
Drive 469 km, 5 hours 19 min
- İnciraltı Kent Ormanı
- Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası
- Izmir Wildlife Park
- More
As you rise to greet the dawn on day 5 of your epic road trip in Turkey, you'll awaken to the bustling city of Izmir. Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Yalova. You’ll stay in Yalova for 1 night. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Izmir’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.
If you’re curious to see more of Izmir, start your day with a visit to the amazing İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This much-appreciated park and attraction is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,347 visitors.
You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası. This best-rated sightseeing destination and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,399 visitors.
We also recommend you spend some time at the popular İzmir Wildlife Park to make the most of your road trip across Turkey. The spectacular İzmir Wildlife Park is a zoo that has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,576 visitors.
After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Izmir has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Yalova. Yalova offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.
After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular Öncü Fırın Cafe. This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,690 reviews.
The remarkable Kardeşler İşkembe & pide kebap sarayı is another top restaurant in Yalova we recommend. This restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,073 customers.
If you would rather go somewhere else, the famous Coffee Chefs Lounge is also an excellent choice. This well-loved restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 523 customers.
After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Yalova, the fantastic Aksoy Et & Izgara. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 596 customers.
To end your night the best way possible, we recommend going to the wonderful Özbaşkanlar Kasap Izgara. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 488 customers.
Another bar with a great atmosphere is İHSAN IZGARA. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 406 customers, so don’t forget to check this one out as well!
Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Turkey!
Experiences
Day 6 – Beyoğlu, Üsküdar, and Istanbul
Day 6 – Beyoğlu, Üsküdar, and Istanbul
- Istanbul
- More
Drive 117 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque)
- Yıldız Park
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Miniatürk
- Galata Tower
- More
Rise and shine on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you'll wake up in Yalova and embark on a scenic drive to Istanbul, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 1 night. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Yalova and Üsküdar before you reach your end destination for the day.
It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Yalova. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful Miniatürk. This attraction is a miniature park that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,760 visitors.
You could also stop at the incredible Galata Tower. This attraction, a beloved tower, has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 169,479 visitors.
Wave goodbye to Beyoğlu and continue your journey by car. If you want to break up today’s drive into two, take the opportunity to stop and discover what the city of Üsküdar has to offer.
One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque). This attraction is a mosque that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 32,994 visitors.
If you want to explore more, visit the incredible Yıldız Park. This park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,205 reviews.
Another site you could visit today is the top-rated Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace and travel destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 75,692 visitors.
When you're done with your sightseeing in Üsküdar, it's time to continue your drive to the city of Istanbul. When you arrive in Istanbul you’ll check in at one of the best hotels in the area.
We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like Saltanat Fish & Kebab House. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,112 customers.
Locals also recommend Divella Bistro Restaurant, another of the best restaurants in Istanbul. Divella Bistro Restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,711 customers.
If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at Turkish Cuisine. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,399 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.
After dinner, visit Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Istanbul, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,447 customers.
You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Joker No.19. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Joker No.19 has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,483 customers.
Corner Irish Pub is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,406 customers.
End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Turkey, and look forward to more great days to come!
Experiences
Day 7 – Istanbul - departure day
Day 7 – Istanbul - departure day
- Istanbul - Departure day
- More
- Beyazıt Square
- More
Day 7 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Istanbul before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.
Beyazıt Square is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Istanbul. This square and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,941 visitors.
Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Istanbul and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Turkey.
You could then enjoy your last meal in the city of Istanbul at İstanbul kebab cafe & restaurant before you travel home. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,220 customers.
Alternatively, we also recommend Byzantion Bistro Restaurant for your last chance at a meal in the city of Istanbul. The Byzantion Bistro Restaurant restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,165 customers.
If you'd prefer a popular restaurant that locals enjoy, try Gulhane Sark Sofrasi. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,078 customers.
You’ll then say farewell to Istanbul. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Turkey!
Experiences
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