One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ankara to Sakarya, Istanbul, and Kocaeli

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Çankaya and Ankara, 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Ankara, including a monument, a park, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Anıtkabir. This world-famous monument is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Metu Forest, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Ankara 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 Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, one of the town’s most frequently visited museum.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Çankaya.

Seğmenler Parkı is a notable park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hakiki Rumeli Koftecisi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kebapcibey offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sakarya.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Istanbul for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Beyoğlu and Istanbul.

Set out on a day brimming with a picture-perfect, a historic, a charming, a stunning, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a monumental. Start at the wondrous Grand Bazaar, a history-steeped market in Istanbul. Next, go to Sultanahmet Square.

After visiting Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet Square, take time to explore Istanbul's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This picture-perfect mosque offers a unique experience. Hagia Sophia is another noteworthy stop.

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 Istanbul may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Galata Tower. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Istanbul.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mitani Cafe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Divella Bistro Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Istanbul tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Reggae Br Shot & Food, known for its lively atmosphere. Just Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Fatih and Istanbul. You still have 1 night left in Istanbul.

Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Beyazıt Square. This history-steeped public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Spice Bazaar, a must-visit market in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Gülhane Park, a spectacular park. For a change of scene, check out Topkapı Palace, known for its picture-perfect features.

Set your GPS to Istanbul and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Istanbul beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Süleymaniye Mosque and explore the symbolic features.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pierre Loti Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 Kocaeli, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Üsküdar and set your GPS to Eyüpsultan. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Eyüpsultan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Yıldız Park, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Dolmabahçe Palace, a visually striking palace.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eyüpsultan. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Begin your journey at Eyüp Sultan Mosque and explore the monumental features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Eyüpsultan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Beyoğlu. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Galata Bridge, a popular bascule bridge in Beyoğlu.

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 Kocaeli. Kocaeli 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 Kocaeli. 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 Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, an iconic dining spot in Kocaeli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Altındağ, 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 Kocaeli to Altındağ may take around 3 hours 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Altındağ, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Haci Bayram Mosque, a well-known mosque that everyone visiting Altındağ should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Ankara Castle. This standout castle is one of the most captivating attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a historic museum, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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 MARTI RESTAURANT, 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 Golden Pavilion Museum, 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 Afganistan Sofrası. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Ankara tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into On An On Rock Cafe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, London Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük, another top-rated bar in the area.

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