One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling east to Bursa, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Kocaeli

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Turkey. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Istanbul, 1 night in Bursa, 2 nights in Eskişehir, 1 night in Ankara, and 1 night in Kocaeli. 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. Marvel at the remarkable Grand Bazaar, learn more about the unique Hagia Sophia, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Topkapı Palace.

As you hit the open road and drive through Istanbul, Bursa, Eskişehir, Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, Ankara, Bolu, Kocaeli, Üsküdar, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Gülhane Park
Grand BazaarBasilica CisternHagia SophiaTopkapı Palace
HeykelGrand Mosque of BursaKoza Hanİnkaya Historical Plane TreeEmir Sultan Mosque
Eskisehir Sehr-i Love IslandEskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Aydın Arat ParkVecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Müzesi ve Teknoloji ParkıDede Korkut ParkEskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo
Eskişehir ETİ Archaeological MuseumMuseum of Independence, EskişehirEskişehir Odunpazarı EvleriEskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark
Yukarı TaşhanBeyazıt CamiOrta HamamAtatürk Orman Park
Dolmabahçe PalaceGalata Tower
Spice Bazaar

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Day 1

Wednesday, March 26

  • Istanbul - Arrival day
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  • Gülhane Park
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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 1 night 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 Gülhane Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Istanbul. 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 city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Malt Bar Gayrettepe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Rounder's Irish Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 2

Thursday, March 27

  • Istanbul
  • Bursa
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Drive 158 km, 2 hours 29 min

  • Grand Bazaar
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Topkapı Palace
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul, 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 Bursa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Istanbul covers several incredible sights, including a market, an archeological site, a mosque, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Grand Bazaar. This world-famous market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Basilica Cistern, a must-see archeological site 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 Hagia Sophia. This wondrous mosque offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Topkapı Palace, where you can take in historic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 lovely dining experience at Kitap Evi Otel, a popular restaurant in Bursa. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bursa at Tabipler Lokali, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Abidin Usta. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bursa tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to My Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cemil provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 3

Friday, March 28

  • Bursa
  • Eskisehir
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Drive 170 km, 2 hours 59 min

  • Heykel
  • Grand Mosque of Bursa
  • Koza Han
  • İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
  • Emir Sultan Mosque
  • More

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 Bursa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Eskişehir, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Bursa. Begin your sightseeing with Heykel. This locally appreciated public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Bursa Grand Mosque, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bursa, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Koza Han. This notable market is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Emir Sultan Mosque is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ciğerci Ahmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Oda Restoran offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Eskişehir.

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

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Day 4

Saturday, March 29

  • Eskisehir
  • More

Drive 24 km, 1 hour 11 min

  • Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island
  • Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Aydın Arat Park
  • Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Müzesi ve Teknoloji Parkı
  • Dede Korkut Park
  • Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Eskişehir, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s itinerary in Eskişehir covers several incredible sights, including a park, an aviation museum, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island. This worthwhile park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Aydın Arat Park, a must-see park 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 Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This up-and-coming aviation museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Dede Korkut Park, where you can take in mesmerizing features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Eskişehir.

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

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

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

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Day 5

Sunday, March 30

  • Eskisehir
  • Ankara
  • More

Drive 236 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Eskişehir ETİ Archaeological Museum
  • Museum of Independence, Eskişehir
  • Eskişehir Odunpazarı Evleri
  • Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark
  • More

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Eskişehir, including a museum, a historical landmark, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Eskişehir Etİ Archaeological Museum. This intriguing museum is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Museum Of Independence, Eskişehir, which may be one of the most standout places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Eskişehir 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 Eskişehir Odunpazarı Evleri, an up-and-coming historical landmark in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ankara. Ankara 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 Ankara, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Livorno Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Filikos Restoran? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ankara.

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.

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

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Day 6

Monday, March 31

  • Ankara
  • Kocaeli
  • More

Drive 352 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Yukarı Taşhan
  • Beyazıt Cami
  • Orta Hamam
  • Atatürk Orman Park
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bolu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kocaeli, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Ankara, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Upper Stone Inn, a locally appreciated point of interest in the city. Then, head to Beyazıt Cami and soak in the ambiance of this stunning mosque.

There are many interesting places to see in Ankara, and when you are ready for more, go to Orta Hamam. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated romantic spots of interest. After exploring the spa, visit the beloved Atatürk Orman Park.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kocaeli, 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 Kocaeli's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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Day 7

Tuesday, April 1

  • Kocaeli
  • Istanbul
  • More

Drive 109 km, 2 hours 1 min

  • Dolmabahçe Palace
  • Galata Tower
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Istanbul, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Kocaeli today. One of the most widely recognized attractions included on the itinerary is Dolmabahçe Palace. This enchanting palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Galata Tower and learn what makes this respected observation deck unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Sankai by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Arkestra, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering fusion menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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 to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

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Day 8

Wednesday, April 2

  • Istanbul - Departure day
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  • Spice Bazaar
  • More

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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Spice Bazaar, a standout market before you head out.

On your last day in Turkey, take time to indulge in shopping at Istanbul’s popular marketplace, Olive City Shopping Center. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Dine in style at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pierre Loti Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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