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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Bursa. Your adventure starts at Dolmabahçe Palace, an extraordinary local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Galata Tower. This timeless observation deck is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bursa's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Süleymaniye Mosque. This historic mosque offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Basilica Cistern is also worth visiting, along with Hagia Sophia. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try Salute Pub & Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Erhan Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Istanbul by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Sultanahmet, a must-see neighborhood in Istanbul. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit İstiklal Avenue, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, including a palace, a mosque, and a market. Start your day with a visit to Topkapı Palace. This widely recognized palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Sultan Ahmed Mosque, which may be one of the most stunning 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 Grand Bazaar, a globally renowned market in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Spice Bazaar.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Reggae Br Shot & Food, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Just Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Eceabat and Bigalı. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Canakkale, where you’ll be staying 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 often recommended war memorial is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking 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 locally appreciated museum offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Canakkale, 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 Canakkale. 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 Akava Lounge Food & Drink, an iconic dining spot in Canakkale. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hayal Kahvesi Çanakkale, a popular restaurant in Canakkale. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cevahir Ev Yemekleri, a hidden gem nestled in Canakkale. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Valhalla Metal Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gergedan offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Macleren's Doors. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Canakkale today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Basilica Of Saint John. This picture-perfect church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Ephesus Archaeological Museum and learn what makes this heritage-rich museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing House Of Virgin Mary. After exploring the church, head to The Temple Of Artemis. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a highlight in Canakkale.

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

As you explore more of Selçuk, 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.

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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the increasingly popular Hierapolis Ancient Theater, a culturally significant archeological site in Selçuk. Next, go to Pamukkale Theatre.

After visiting Hierapolis Ancient Theater and Pamukkale Theatre, have a stroll along Selçuk's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. This standout museum offers a unique experience. Travertines Of Pamukkale is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Natural Park, one of the most visually striking places to visit 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Traverten Pide, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Seven Spices İndian restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at YAĞMUR RESTAURANT & BATTALBEY ÇİĞ KÖFTE. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pamukkale tonight.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Afyonkarahisar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Pamukkale, including a spa, a castle, and a museum. Start your day at People's Bath. This heritage-rich spa is an intriguing place to see in Pamukkale. Then, wander over to Afyonkarahisar Castle. If visually striking sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Afyonkarahisar Archaeological Museum. This historic museum is a favorite among visitors.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Labelle Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Keep the evening going at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kule Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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