9-Day Turkey Road Trip from Bursa to Bolu, Istanbul, Yalova, and Izmir and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Bolu, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Han Brass. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,719 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Bursa Grand Mosque. This mosque has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 40,156 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Koza Han. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,790 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Uludag National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,535 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bolu, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bolu. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at ANTEP SOFRASI, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hanımeli Yemek Salonu offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kubbealti is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bolu.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bolu, and Sarıyar. 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 2 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Atatürk Orman Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,777 visitors.

Golcuk Nature Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,749 travelers.

Bolu is also the home of Akkaya Travertenleri. Around 3,978 people have rated this park an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sarıyar, 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 Bolu to Sarıyar may take around 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sarıyar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lake Abant. This lake is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,703 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 Istanbul. Istanbul 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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Istanbul by securing a table at Calipso Fish. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Sankai by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Arkestra, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for fusion cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

Day 4 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.

Journey into the unknown at Grand Bazaar, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bazaar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 150,014 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a recommended place to visit. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 95,369 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Istanbul offers an experience you will remember.

Spice Bazaar is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Istanbul. This bazaar promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 168,628 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Gülhane Park. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,194 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ulus 29. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Keep the evening going at Karga Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Just Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Yalova, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beyoğlu and set your GPS to Üsküdar. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Üsküdar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Galata Tower one of your first sightseeing stops in Beyoğlu. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 172,160 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Miniatürk is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This miniature park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,484 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Beyoğlu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Üsküdar. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,834 visitors.

When you’re finished at Dolmabahçe Palace, head to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This one-of-a-kind mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,341 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Yıldız Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,811 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Yalova, 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 Yalova, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Dörtyol Kokoreç, a top-rated dining destination in Yalova. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sandal Balık, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Yalova Sütlüsü. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Yalova this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Guitar Heroes, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Divan Teras Cafe & Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Yucca Live Performance, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Izmir, Konak, and Karabağlar, 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 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Yalova, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Izmir may take around 3 hours 58 min. Upon your arrival in Izmir, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Agora Of Smyrna your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,900 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Izmir, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Konak may take around 3 min. Upon your arrival in Konak, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Kemeraltı, a remarkable bazaar where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 27,982 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Konak Square. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,737 travelers.

Clock Tower Of İzmir is another must-visit attraction. This renowned point of interest offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,286 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Izmir, 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 Izmir. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Izmir by booking a table at Tavacı Recep Usta, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional turkish, and traditional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Adil Müftüoğlu, renowned for its delectable turkish dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Catch, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stone Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bonema Cafe & Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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