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

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Explore the best of Turkey on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bursa, Osmangazi, Eskişehir, Altındağ, Ankara, Çankaya, Bolu, Kocaeli, Eyüpsultan, Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. 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 2 nights in Bursa, 1 night in Eskişehir, 2 nights in Ankara, 1 night in Kocaeli, and 2 nights in Istanbul. 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 Bursa, 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 Anıtkabir.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bursa, Osmangazi, Eskişehir, Altındağ, Ankara, Çankaya, Bolu, Kocaeli, Eyüpsultan, Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
Grand Mosque of BursaKoza HanHan BrassKaragoz MuseumAbdal Bridge
Haci Bayram MosqueUlucanlar Prison MuseumAnkara CastleMuseum of Anatolian Civilizations
Seğmenler ParkıKuğulu ParkIndependence ParkAnıtkabirMTA Sehit Cuma Dag Natural History Museum
Beştepe Millet CamiiYukarı TaşhanBeyazıt CamiOrta Hamam
Eyüp Sultan MosqueGülhane ParkSpice BazaarSüleymaniye MosqueGrand Bazaar

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bursa - Arrival day
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  • İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Bursa and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bursa for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Bursa 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 İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, 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 Bursa. 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 Bursa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kitap Evi Otel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tabipler Lokali offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Abidin Usta. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bursa.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at My Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cemil provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bursa
  • Eskisehir
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Drive 173 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Grand Mosque of Bursa
  • Koza Han
  • Han Brass
  • Karagoz Museum
  • Abdal Bridge
  • More

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

Start your day at Bursa Grand Mosque. This historic mosque is a locally renowned place to see in Bursa. Then, wander over to Koza Han. If visually striking sites excite you, this market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Han Brass.

Bursa offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Karagoz Museum is an increasingly popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the culturally significant Abdal Bridge. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile monument.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ciğerci Ahmet, an iconic dining spot in Eskişehir. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oda Restoran, a popular restaurant in Eskişehir. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Tatlıdil Köftecisi, a hidden gem nestled in Eskişehir. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Eskisehir
  • Ankara
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Drive 244 km, 3 hours 30 min

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Eskişehir today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Haci Bayram Mosque. This photogenic mosque will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Ulucanlar Prison Museum and learn what makes this historic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Ankara Castle. After exploring the castle, head to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This interesting museum is a highlight in Eskişehir.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Filikos Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Muddy Waters after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Nil Rock Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Always Rock Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Ankara
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 7 min

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ankara for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Çankaya, Altındağ, and Ankara to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Ankara, including a park, a monument, and a museum. Start your adventure at Seğmenler Parkı. This notable park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Kuğulu Park located in Ankara for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Independence Park. Its gorgeous features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Anıtkabir. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this monument. Next up is Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, a highly recommended museum.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Golden Pavilion Museum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Afganistan Sofrası. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like On An On Rock Cafe, known for its lively atmosphere. London Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Ankara
  • Kocaeli
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Drive 352 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • Beştepe Millet Camii
  • Yukarı Taşhan
  • Beyazıt Cami
  • Orta Hamam
  • More

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

Beştepe Millet Camii is must-visit mosque and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Upper Stone Inn, an intriguing point of interest, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Beyazıt Cami, an instagrammable mosque, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kocaeli. Kocaeli offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Kocaeli
  • Istanbul
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Drive 116 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Eyüp Sultan Mosque
  • Gülhane Park
  • Spice Bazaar
  • Süleymaniye Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Eyüpsultan, Istanbul, and Fatih. 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Kocaeli. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a mosque, a park, and a market. Begin your adventure at Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This is an astonishing mosque you should not miss. Another must-see is Gülhane Park, a famous park in Kocaeli.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Spice Bazaar. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Süleymaniye Mosque, another of the town’s astonishing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Grand Bazaar, an instagrammable place of interest in the town.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Rounder's Irish Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Istanbul
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Drive 5 km, 44 min

  • Sultanahmet Square
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Topkapı Palace
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Day 7 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.

Today’s agenda in Istanbul includes a public square, an archeological site, a mosque, a palace and much more! Sultanahmet Square is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Basilica Cistern, a widely recognized archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Hagia Sophia, a stunning mosque, also available for your discovery today.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mitani Cafe, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try Divella Bistro Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

Keep the evening going at Reggae Br Shot & Food, 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!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Istanbul
  • Bursa
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Drive 163 km, 2 hours 40 min

  • Galata Tower
  • Dolmabahçe Palace
  • Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque)
  • More

On day 8 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 Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Istanbul promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Galata Tower. This symbolic observation deck is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Dolmabahçe Palace, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, one of the town’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

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.

Dine in style at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, TANDIR'AZ BURSA boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Labelle Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bursa.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kule Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Bursa - Departure day
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  • Heykel
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Day 9 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bursa 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 Heykel, an instagrammable public square before you head out.

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

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Titiz Izgara, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bursa. 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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