One-Week Turkey Road Trip from Ankara to Eskişehir, Bursa, Istanbul, and Sakarya

Say hello to Ankara! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Ankara for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Ankara is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out 50th Year Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Ankara. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ankara. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Filikos Restoran, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at MARTI RESTAURANT as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ankara.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Muddy Waters. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Nil Rock Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Always Rock Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ankara, and Çankaya. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Eskişehir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Independence Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 visitors.

Next, make your way to Anıtkabir. This mausoleum is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 120,860 reviews.

While in Ankara, we also recommend a visit to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,678 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Çansera Kent Bahçesi. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,648 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Ankara.

Set your GPS to Çankaya and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Çankaya beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Seğmenler Parkı. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,391 visitors.

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 Eskişehir. Eskişehir 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Eskişehir's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Oda Restoran is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Eskişehir tonight.

Say good night to Eskişehir and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, and Eskişehir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Dede Korkut Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,037 reviews.

After soaking in Eskişehir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Odunpazarı. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 7 min. When you arrive in Odunpazarı, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,931 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tepebaşı. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,847 visitors.

When you’re finished at Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, head to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This one-of-a-kind zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,091 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. My Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cemil. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Fatih, and Istanbul. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fatih. This car ride takes around 1 hour 57 min.

Journey into the unknown at Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable mosque has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 59,048 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Fatih, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Istanbul. Your travel time is around 17 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Gülhane Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,194 visitors.

Next, make your way to Spice Bazaar. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 168,628 reviews.

While in Istanbul, 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.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Grand Bazaar. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 travelers, this bazaar is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Istanbul.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Istanbul, 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 Istanbul. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Istanbul by securing a table at Calipso Fish. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Sankai by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Arkestra, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for fusion cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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.

Take the opportunity to see Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 visitors.

Basilica Cistern is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 travelers.

Istanbul is also the home of Hagia Sophia. Around 129,265 people have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.8 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.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Istanbul has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Istanbul. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ulus 29. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Karga Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Just Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar, 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 Sakarya. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Beyoğlu, 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 14 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 Miniatürk. This miniature park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Beyoğlu, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,484 visitors.

Galata Tower is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 172,160 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Üsküdar, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Beyoğlu to Üsküdar may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Üsküdar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace. This extraordinary palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,834 visitors.

Next, make your way to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This top attraction is a mosque with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Yıldız Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,811 travelers.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Beytuş Hamburger & Pizza, an iconic dining spot in Sakarya. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mono Cafe - Segafredo, a popular restaurant in Sakarya. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Köfteci İsmail, a hidden gem nestled in Sakarya. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

On day 7 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, and Ankara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bolu. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Atatürk Orman Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,777 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bolu and set your GPS to Ankara. 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 2 hours 3 min. Upon reaching Ankara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Haci Bayram Mosque. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,925 visitors.

Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This national museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 travelers. Up to 450,000 people visit Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations every year.

Ankara is also the home of Ankara Castle. Around 18,722 people have rated this castle an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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.

As you explore more of Ankara, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Golden Pavilion Museum, a popular restaurant in Ankara. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ankara at Afganistan Sofrası, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Ankara tonight.

Continue your lively evening at On An On Rock Cafe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Fat Boy Bar & Grill ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ankara before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Ankara.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zaytung Zone, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Safranhan? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Ankara. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!