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

Day 2 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 route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Topkapı Palace. This extraordinary palace is a historic place to see in Istanbul. Continue your discovery at Hagia Sophia, a picture-perfect mosque with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Istanbul, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Cistern. This impressive archeological site offers a visually striking encounter with Istanbul. Next, make your way to Gülhane Park to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Istanbul.

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.

Visit Olive City Shopping Center in Istanbul for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Olive City Shopping Center has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Calipso Fish offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Sankai by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Arkestra, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional fusion menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Reggae Br Shot & Food stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Just Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

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 Istanbul, Fatih, and Eyüpsultan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kocaeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Istanbul. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a market, a mosque, and an observation deck. Begin your adventure at Grand Bazaar. This is a wondrous market you should not miss. Another must-see is Spice Bazaar, an iconic market in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Süleymaniye Mosque. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Pierre Loti Hill, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a stunning place of interest in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kocaeli. 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 Kocaeli. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, highly recommended for tonight's dining.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bolu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ankara, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Kocaeli allows for both. Start by heading to Upper Stone Inn. This worthwhile sightseeing destination provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Beyazıt Cami, a culturally significant mosque, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Yesil Mosque, a beloved mosque. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Atatürk Orman Park.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Livorno Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Filikos Restoran offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ankara.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Muddy Waters, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Nil Rock Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Always Rock Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 5 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 Altındağ to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Start by visiting Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Ankara Castle, another must-visit landmark and captivating castle renowned for its stunning features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Ankara by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This heritage-rich museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Ankara experience. We also recommend visiting Haci Bayram Mosque, a well-known mosque.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at MARTI RESTAURANT, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Golden Pavilion Museum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Afganistan Sofrası as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ankara.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, On An On Rock Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, London Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Altındağ, Çankaya, and Ankara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Eskişehir, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Ankara. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Independence Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most notable places to visit in Ankara. Next, head to Kuğulu Park, a locally renowned park, known for its mesmerizing features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Seğmenler Parkı. This idyllic park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Metu Forest and Anıtkabir. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Eskişehir, 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 Eskişehir. 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 Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated dining destination in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Oda Restoran, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Eskişehir this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, Eskişehir, and Karacaşehir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bursa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. This popular park is a serene place to see in Eskişehir. Continue your discovery at Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, a photogenic aviation museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Eskişehir, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Dede Korkut Park. This increasingly popular park offers a gorgeous encounter with Eskişehir. Next, make your way to Odunpazarı Botanik Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, an up-and-coming zoo that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Eskişehir.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bursa. 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 Bursa's best restaurants.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting My Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cemil likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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