9-Day Turkey Road Trip from Ankara to Eskişehir, Bursa, Istanbul, and Sakarya

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Çankaya, and Ankara. You still have 1 night left in Ankara.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Anıtkabir. This mausoleum is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 120,860 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Çansera Kent Bahçesi. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,648 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,678 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ankara and set your GPS to Çankaya. 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 9 min. Upon reaching Çankaya, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Kuğulu Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,340 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Seğmenler Parkı. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,391 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Ankara and your accommodation.

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.

Savor the flavors at Golden Pavilion Museum, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Afganistan Sofrası beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ankara tonight.

Continue your lively evening at On An On Rock Cafe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Fat Boy Bar & Grill ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, and Eskişehir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Dede Korkut Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,037 reviews.

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 Odunpazarı. Your travel time is around 7 min.

Drop by the renowned Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,931 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Eskişehir Odunpazarı Evleri. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,683 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Odunpazarı, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tepebaşı. This drive usually takes around 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,091 visitors.

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 Bursa. Bursa 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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at My Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cemil, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Fatih, and 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 Istanbul. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fatih. This car ride takes around 1 hour 57 min.

Take the opportunity to see Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 59,048 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Istanbul, 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 Fatih to Istanbul may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Istanbul, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Gülhane Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,194 reviews.

Next up is Spice Bazaar. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque has been rated 4.9 out of 5 stars in 53,090 reviews.

Grand Bazaar is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Istanbul, 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Istanbul by reserving a table at Calipso Fish. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Sankai by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Arkestra, a local favorite known for its delightful fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning fusion foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rock Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Rounder's Irish Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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 6 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Topkapı Palace, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 97,459 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 1,932,726 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Hagia Sophia. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 129,265 travelers.

Basilica Cistern is another must-visit attraction. This renowned palace offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This well-loved mosque boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 95,369 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Istanbul, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Istanbul 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.

Dine in style at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ulus 29. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Karga Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Just Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

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 Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sakarya, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Üsküdar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Üsküdar beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Galata Tower. This tower is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Beyoğlu, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 visitors.

Miniatürk is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,484 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Üsküdar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Beyoğlu behind. This drive usually takes around 13 min. Üsküdar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,834 reviews.

Continue your journey at Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This mosque is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,341 travelers from near and far.

Üsküdar is also the home of Yıldız Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 visitors.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sakarya. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Beytuş Hamburger & Pizza, a highly-rated dining destination in Sakarya. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mono Cafe - Segafredo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Köfteci İsmail. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sakarya this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bolu, and Ankara. 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.

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 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Atatürk Orman Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,777 reviews.

After soaking in Bolu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ankara. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 3 min. When you arrive in Ankara, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Haci Bayram Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,925 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,978 reviews. Usually, around 450,000 people visit Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Ankara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,722 visitors.

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.

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

Dine in style at Zaytung Zone, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Safranhan boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bogazici Lokantasi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ankara.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Soul Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. O Ses Sensin - Karaoke is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Celt Irish Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!