7-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Izmir, and Yalova

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Grand Bazaar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 visitors.

Hagia Sophia is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 travelers.

Istanbul is also the home of Gülhane Park. Around 61,194 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Topkapı Palace, which hosts up to 1,932,726 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 97,459 reviews, a visit to this palace is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Istanbul is also your chance to admire Spice Bazaar. This must-visit bazaar enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 reviews.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Continue your lively evening at My Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cemil ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Konak, Karabağlar, and Izmir. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Konak. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Kemeraltı. This extraordinary bazaar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,982 visitors.

Next, make your way to Clock Tower Of İzmir. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,286 reviews.

While in Konak, we also recommend a visit to Konak Square. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,737 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Konak, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Karabağlar may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Karabağlar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to İzmir Historical Elevator Building. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Karabağlar, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,807 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Izmir, 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of turkish, and traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Adil Müftüoğlu, renowned for its delicious turkish dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Catch, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stone Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bonema Cafe & Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Yalova, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Üsküdar may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Üsküdar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This mosque is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Üsküdar, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 visitors.

Yıldız Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Dolmabahçe Palace. Visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Üsküdar and set your GPS to Beyoğlu. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Beyoğlu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Miniatürk. This popular miniature park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,484 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Galata Tower. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 visitors, this tower deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Karga Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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