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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Istanbul. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Topkapı Palace is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Istanbul. Next, head to Hagia Sophia, a world-famous mosque, known for its breathtaking 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 Basilica Cistern. This photogenic archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Gülhane Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 Grand Bazaar 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 Grand Bazaar has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 symphony of flavors at Calipso Fish in Istanbul by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Calipso Fish delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Sankai by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Arkestra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Just Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul, Fatih, and Eyüpsultan, 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 Kocaeli. You’ll stay here 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 and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Spice Bazaar, a photogenic market that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the city’s most spectacular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Pierre Loti Hill. When you're finished at the observation deck, Eyüp Sultan Mosque awaits your visit. This mosque is a breathtaking highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated dining destination in Kocaeli.

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.

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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Kocaeli. Your adventure starts at Upper Stone Inn, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Beyazıt Cami.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Kocaeli's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Yesil Mosque. This inviting mosque offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Atatürk Orman Park is also worth visiting.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Livorno Pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're eager to try something different, consider Filikos Restoran, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Muddy Waters, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Nil Rock Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Always Rock Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Ankara promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This visually striking museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Ankara Castle, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, one of the town’s most well-known attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Haci Bayram Mosque. This heritage-rich mosque is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Ankara.

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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting On An On Rock Cafe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, London Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Ankara and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Ankara. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park and a monument. Begin your adventure at Independence Park. This is an interesting park you should not miss. Another must-see is Kuğulu Park, a popular park in Ankara.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Seğmenler Parkı. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Metu Forest, another of the town’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Anıtkabir, a breathtaking place of interest in the town.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated dining spot in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood for something new, try Oda Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Eskişehir.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, Eskişehir, and Karacaşehir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Eskişehir, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a well-known park in the town. Then, head to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı and soak in the ambiance of this historic aviation museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Eskişehir, and when you are ready for more, go to Dede Korkut Park. This is one of the town’s most underrated awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the locally appreciated Odunpazarı Botanik Park. Not far away, you'll also find Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This zoo is a picture-perfect highlight in Eskişehir.

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 Kitap Evi Otel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tabipler Lokali boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Abidin Usta. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bursa.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting My Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cemil also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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