One-Week Relaxed Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul to Bolu

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Istanbul, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Turkey are extraordinary.

Visiting Sultan Ahmed Mosque is always a good idea. This famous mosque is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the grand wonders of Sultanahmet Square, a must-see public square in the city.

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 Grand Bazaar. This world-famous market offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Spice Bazaar, where you can take in respected features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Turkey. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Turkey and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Istanbul, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Arkestra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Istanbul. The bars in Istanbul make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue your lively evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Just Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Istanbul!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Turkey means 24 hours of making the best memories in Istanbul. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Istanbul. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Istanbul!

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the impressive Topkapı Palace and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hagia Sophia, an UNESCO world heritage-designated mosque that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Basilica Cistern, one of the city’s most extraordinary spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the astonishing Gülhane Park.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Turkey more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Istanbul offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Istanbul has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Istanbul. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Turkey!

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Turkey offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Beyoğlu and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Üsküdar and Bolu. You’ll stay in Bolu for 3 nights.

Galata Tower brings Istanbul's character to life. This visually striking observation deck is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Dolmabahçe Palace, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ortaköy Square, one of the town’s most captivating attractions, known for its inviting features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This respected mosque is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Yıldız Park, an interesting park, and take a stroll around the area.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Turkey as you make your way to Bolu. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bolu, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a highly-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bolu. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Turkey!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Turkey, you’ll go deep into Bolu, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the region’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the region's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bolu, and meet locals along the way!

Your adventure in Bolu is only getting started when you visit Kapankaya Seyir Terası, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Yedigöller National Park. This well-known national park is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bolu's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Yedigöller Waterfall. This awe-inspiring waterfall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Serin Lake is also worth visiting.

Turkey makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Turkey also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, a top-rated dining spot in Bolu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Oklava, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bolu Hanzade Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bolu.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bolu and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bolu can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Turkey!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bolu, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Turkey are extraordinary.

Enjoy all that Akkaya Travertenleri has to offer. This is a worthwhile rock formation you should not miss. Another must-see is Atatürk Orman Park, a beloved park in Bolu.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Golcuk Nature Park.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Turkey by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bolu. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bolu that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Turkey more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bolu to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Bolu offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri) boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bolu.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bolu.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Turkey!