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

On day 2 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Izmir, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Izmir for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Konak and Izmir to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Immerse yourself in Izmir’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. This romantic concert hall is sure to ignite your curiosity.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Izmir. This car ride takes around 15 min.

After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Clock Tower Of İzmir, a captivating monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Kemeraltı and uncover the details of this photogenic market. Make sure to also explore Hisar Mosque, a locally appreciated mosque that offers a unique experience.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Izmir by reserving a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Adil Müftüoğlu, recognized for its delicious turkish dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Continue your lively evening at Chaos Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Tattoo Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Dinosaur Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Izmir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This often recommended park is a mesmerizing place to see in Izmir. Continue your discovery at Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası, a romantic observation deck with stories to tell.

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 Bursa. Bursa 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar, Eyüpsultan, and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Üsküdar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Üsküdar beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the mosque before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Yıldız Park. This captivating park is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Dolmabahçe Palace. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the palace.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Üsküdar, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Eyüpsultan may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Eyüpsultan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Miniatürk. Spend some time admiring the noteworthy features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Eyüpsultan’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 20 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Galata Tower, a timeless observation deck known for its visually striking features.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Say good night to Istanbul and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 1 vibrant destinations - Istanbul. 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, including a market, a park, and a mosque. Start your day with a visit to Grand Bazaar. This globally renowned market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Spice Bazaar, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Istanbul on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Gülhane Park, one of the city’s most widely recognized park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hagia Sophia and Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a popular restaurant in Kocaeli. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

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