One-Week Turkey Road Trip from Bursa to Izmir, Canakkale, Istanbul, and Sakarya and surrounding area

Welcome to Bursa, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Turkey! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bursa's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bursa is a beautiful region with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bursa. 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 region.

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

Reserve your spot at Kebapçı Hüseyin Usta, a popular local restaurant in Bursa. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,308 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte during your stay in Bursa. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,249 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Bursa Kebapcisi, a popular local gem in Bursa. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,329 satisfied guests.

When you’ve finished dinner and you’re in the mood for a drink, we recommend visiting one of the best bars in Bursa. Tabipler Lokali offers plenty of drink options for every taste and budget. Around 653 customers have given this bar an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Alternatively, go to a bar that locals recommend, like Kitap Evi Otel. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,257 customers.

If you're looking for something else, check out Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi. This bar is one of the best places to enjoy a drink and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 834 customers.

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Bursa and Izmir, 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 Izmir. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Koza Han, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,333 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Grand Mosque of Bursa is a recommended place to visit. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 39,387 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Bursa is Han Brass. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,660 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Bursa offers an experience you will remember.

Uludag National Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Bursa. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,535 reviews.

Set your GPS to Izmir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Izmir beckons with new experiences!

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

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

Transform your dining experience at Tavacı Recep Usta, one of the top luxury restaurants in Izmir. Offering a diverse menu focusing on turkish and traditional cuisine, Tavacı Recep Usta has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ristorante Pizzeria Venedik, a popular restaurant in Izmir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,262 discerning diners.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the region, go to La Cigale Alsancak. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,445 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Eko Pub. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,387 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is La Puerta Alsancak. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,986 customers.

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

On day 3 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 Karabağlar, Konak, and Canakkale. In the evening, you’ll end up in Canakkale, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Canakkale, 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 Izmir to Canakkale may take around 4 hours 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Canakkale. Canakkale offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Canakkale.

Reserve a table at Mori Bistro, a renowned restaurant in Canakkale. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 720 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Revgan Çanakkale while in Canakkale. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 769 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Canakkale at Sardalye, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 5,024 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Canakkale, Hangover Cafe Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,257 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend Hotel Akol. This bar has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,612 customers.

Lodos Bar is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,163 customers.

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 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Beyoğlu and Istanbul. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Canakkale and set your GPS to Istanbul. 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 3 hours 36 min. Upon reaching Istanbul, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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 region.

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

Elevate your stay in Istanbul by dining at this luxury restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Calipso Fish consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional seafood cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Istanbul is Sankai by Nagaya, which holds a rating of 1 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting atmosphere and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its japanese contemporary menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to Sankai by Nagaya’s culinary excellence.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, consider reserving a table at Arkestra. This celebrated dining spot in Istanbul is renowned for its creative meals and fusion menu. Countless guests have praised this restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star status.

One of the best bars in Istanbul you could visit tonight after your dinner is Arch Bistro. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 798 customers.

Another popular bar in the region is Harab'be Cafe. This bar is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 2,610 customers.

Locals also enjoy Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,447 customers.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House while you’re in Istanbul. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 2,112 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Istanbul is Divella Bistro Restaurant. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,711 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

While in Istanbul, enjoy Turkish Cuisine’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,399 satisfied guests.

If you’re up for getting a drink after dinner, Last Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant is a great place to go. Around 1,647 customers have rated this popular bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Red River Pub has an atmosphere and drink selection that guests especially enjoy. Red River Pub has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,343 reviews and is considered one of the best you can experience in the region.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop. If this is where the night will take you, you’re in for a fun time in Istanbul. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 874 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Üsküdar and Sakarya. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sakarya. Sakarya will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Istanbul, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sakarya. Your travel time is around 1 hour 41 min.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sakarya, 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 Sakarya. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Köfteci Hacıbekir while you’re in Sakarya. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 2,824 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Sakarya is Beytuş Hamburger & Pizza. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 735 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

While in Sakarya, enjoy Kebapcibey’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 870 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit Meraklı Köfteci (Hakan Şef), which is considered one of the best bars in the region of Sakarya. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 114 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Baytar Steakhouse - Serdivan. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 464 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend Pub Radio Performance Hall. This bar, rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 381 customers, is one of the best bars in the region of Sakarya.

Say good night to Sakarya and look forward to another great 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 2 destinations, Bolu and Bursa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sakarya, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bolu. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Bursa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bolu behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 7 min. Bursa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bursa. Bursa offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Make sure to book a table at Kucuk Saray Pideli Kofte Salonlari, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 501 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Pidecioglu during your stay in Bursa. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 500 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Abidin Usta, a renowned dining destination in Bursa. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 349 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at a bar. Labelle Bar is a great place to continue your night. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 303 customers.

If you want to know where locals go, check out Cemil. This bar has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 836 customers.

Another popular bar in the region is Tepe Cafe & Restaurant. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 894 customers.

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 Bursa before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Optimize your last day in Turkey and go on a shopping spree in Bursa’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Turkey, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bursa. 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!