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

Day 2 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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Istanbul. Your adventure starts at Topkapı Palace, a spectacular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Hagia Sophia. This iconic mosque is known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Istanbul's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Basilica Cistern. This photogenic archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Gülhane Park is also worth visiting.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Istanbul as you explore Grand Bazaar. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Grand Bazaar offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Just Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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.

Istanbul is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a market, a mosque, and an observation deck. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the timeless Grand Bazaar. Just a short distance away is Spice Bazaar, a historic market that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the city’s most impressive spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Pierre Loti Hill. Last up on today’s itinerary is a mosque. Make your way to Eyüp Sultan Mosque for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Istanbul.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated dining destination in Kocaeli.

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

On day 4 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 Ankara, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Kocaeli’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Upper Stone Inn. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Beyazıt Cami, a must-visit mosque in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Yesil Mosque, a locally appreciated mosque. For a change of scene, check out Atatürk Orman Park, known for its stunning features.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Muddy Waters, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Nil Rock Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ankara. Always Rock Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.

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!

Ankara is home to plenty of attractions that offer photo-friendly spots, historic treasures, and family-friendly attractions! Start at Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a captivating museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Ankara Castle, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This museum is one of the town’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Ankara at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Haci Bayram 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 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at On An On Rock Cafe, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out London Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Altındağ, Çankaya, and Ankara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Eskişehir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Independence Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This awe-inspiring park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Kuğulu Park, another must-visit landmark and interesting park renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Ankara by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Seğmenler Parkı. This awe-inspiring park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Metu Forest also adds charm to your journey, and Anıtkabir wraps up your day with its historic appeal.

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.

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

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Turkey!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, Eskişehir, and Karacaşehir. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Eskişehir is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a captivating park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Dede Korkut Park. This park is one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Eskişehir at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Odunpazarı Botanik Park. After exploring the botanical garden, head to the increasingly popular Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This zoo will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the town.

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.

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.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at My Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cemil. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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