One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Istanbul, Canakkale, Selçuk, and Pamukkale and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Üsküdar, Beyoğlu, Fatih, and Istanbul. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Dolmabahçe Palace. This top-rated palace is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Galata Tower, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the most impressive places to see in Bursa. This mosque is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Basilica Cistern. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this archeological site offers. Then, head to Hagia Sophia, a top-rated mosque that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Salute Pub & Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Erhan Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Malt Bar Gayrettepe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 3 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.

A visit to Sultanahmet in Istanbul is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out İstiklal Avenue as well, a street that adds another layer to your exploration.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Istanbul. Begin your sightseeing with Topkapı Palace. This impressive palace is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Sultan Ahmed Mosque, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Istanbul, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Grand Bazaar. This timeless market is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Spice Bazaar, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Just Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Eceabat and Bigalı. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Canakkale, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Istanbul covers several incredible sights, including a war memorial, a battlefield, and a museum. Start your adventure at Seyit Onbaşi. This beloved war memorial is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, a must-see battlefield in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Atatürk Evi. This beloved museum offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Canakkale. Canakkale offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Akava Lounge Food & Drink, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hayal Kahvesi Çanakkale beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cevahir Ev Yemekleri. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Canakkale tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Valhalla Metal Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gergedan, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Macleren's Doors also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Say good night to Canakkale 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 2 vibrant destinations - Selçuk and Izmir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Selçuk. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of Saint John. This intriguing church is a stunning place to see in Canakkale. Continue your discovery at Ephesus Archaeological Museum, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Canakkale, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to House Of Virgin Mary. This increasingly popular church offers a stunning encounter with Canakkale. Next, make your way to The Temple Of Artemis to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Canakkale.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Selçuk, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Selçuk. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Turkey and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Selçuk, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Hierapolis Ancient Theater, an often recommended archeological site in the village. Then, head to Pamukkale Theatre and soak in the ambiance of this historic archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Selçuk, and when you are ready for more, go to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing UNESCO world heritage-listed spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the extraordinary Travertines Of Pamukkale. Not far away, you'll also find Natural Park. This park is an enchanting highlight in Selçuk.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Traverten Pide, a top-rated dining spot in Pamukkale. If you're in the mood for something new, try Seven Spices İndian restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pamukkale.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Marina Clup stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Afyonkarahisar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Pamukkale. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! People's Bath is the perfect place to start. This spa is one of the most beloved places to visit in Pamukkale. Next, head to Afyonkarahisar Castle, a beloved castle, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Afyonkarahisar Archaeological Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bursa. Bursa offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, TANDIR'AZ BURSA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Labelle Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bursa.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kule Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!