One-Week Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling east to Bursa, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Bolu

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Explore the best of Turkey on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Istanbul, Bursa, Gölyazı, İnegöl, Eskişehir, Ankara, Çankaya, Bolu, and Beyoğlu. This road trip itinerary in Turkey seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Istanbul, 1 night in Bursa, 1 night in Eskişehir, 1 night in Ankara, and 1 night in Bolu. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Istanbul, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Galata Tower and Spice Bazaar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Istanbul, Bursa, Gölyazı, İnegöl, Eskişehir, Ankara, Çankaya, Bolu, and Beyoğlu, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.

Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Istanbul - arrival day

  • Istanbul - Arrival day
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  • Beyazit Square
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Say hello to Istanbul! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Istanbul for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Istanbul is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Beyazıt Square or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Istanbul. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Divella Bistro Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rock Pub, 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.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Istanbul

  • Istanbul
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Drive 5 km, 48 min

  • Topkapi Palace Museum
  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
  • Basilica Cistern
  • The Blue Mosque
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Istanbul. You have 1 night left in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Topkapı Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 97,459 visitors. Attracting more than 1,932,726 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Topkapı Palace, head to Hagia Sophia. This one-of-a-kind minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 129,265 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Basilica Cistern. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 visitors.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Istanbul has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Istanbul offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

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 city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Calipso Fish delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Sankai by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Arkestra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Karga Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Just Bar is another popular option for a drink or two.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Istanbul, and Bursa

  • Bursa
  • Istanbul
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Drive 162 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Grand Bazaar
  • Suleymaniye Mosque
  • Egyptian Bazaar
  • Grand Mosque of Bursa
  • Koza Han
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Istanbul, 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 see some sights, Grand Bazaar is a great place to start. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 53,090 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Spice Bazaar. The bazaar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Istanbul, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bursa. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bursa Grand Mosque is a great place to start. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 40,156 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Koza Han. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,790 travelers.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bursa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tabipler Lokali, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bursa this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting My Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cemil also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Bursa, Gölyazı, İnegöl, and Eskişehir

  • Eskisehir
  • Bursa
  • Gölyazı
  • İnegöl
  • More

Drive 246 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Green Tomb
  • Emir Sultan Mosque
  • Ağlayan Çınar
  • More

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 3 vibrant destinations - Bursa, Gölyazı, and İnegöl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Eskişehir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Journey into the unknown at Green Tomb, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,396 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Emir Sultan Mosque is a recommended place to visit. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 10,128 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gölyazı, 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 Bursa to Gölyazı may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gölyazı, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Ağlayan Çınar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 14,658 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Eskişehir, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Eskişehir, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ciğerci Ahmet, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Oda Restoran offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tatlıdil Köftecisi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Eskişehir.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Eskişehir, Ankara, and Çankaya

  • Ankara
  • Çankaya
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Drive 246 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • MTA Sehit Cuma Dag Natural History Museum
  • Anıtkabir
  • Kuğulu Park
  • Seğmenler Parkı
  • Independence Park
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Ankara, and Çankaya, 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 Ankara. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Eskişehir, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ankara. Your travel time is around 2 hours 33 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,678 reviews.

Next up is Anıtkabir. This mausoleum has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 120,860 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Independence Park. This park has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Çankaya.

Journey into the unknown at Kuğulu Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,340 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Seğmenler Parkı is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,391 reviews.

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 Ankara. Ankara 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 Ankara. 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 Filikos Restoran, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of MARTI RESTAURANT, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Muddy Waters is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Nil Rock Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Always Rock Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Ankara, and Bolu

  • Bolu
  • Ankara
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Drive 194 km, 3 hours

  • Ulucanlar Prison Museum
  • Ankara Castle
  • Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
  • Haci Bayram Mosque
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Ankara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bolu, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,648 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ankara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,978 visitors. Up to 450,000 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Haci Bayram Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,925 visitors.

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

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

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 satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Bolu, Beyoğlu, and Istanbul

  • Istanbul
  • Bolu
  • Beyoğlu
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Drive 302 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Golcuk Nature Park
  • Miniaturk
  • Rahmi M. Koç Museum
  • Galata Tower
  • More

On day 7 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 Bolu, and Beyoğlu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Golcuk Nature Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bolu, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,749 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beyoğlu. This car ride takes around 3 hours 5 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Miniatürk. Previous visitors have rated this miniature park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,484 reviews.

Rahmi M. Koç Museum is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 24,022 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Galata Tower. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

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 city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, 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 Resto Han, 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 Old English Pub ® Cafe & 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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Turkey!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Istanbul - departure day

  • Istanbul - Departure day
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  • Gülhane Park
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Day 8 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Istanbul before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Gülhane Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,194 reviews.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanzade Terrace Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Istanbul. 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!

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