Relaxed 9-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul to Bolu

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Turkey means 24 hours of making the best memories in Istanbul. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Istanbul. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Istanbul!

Istanbul is brimming with adventures.

No visit to Istanbul is complete without Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This spectacular mosque is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Basilica Cistern, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Istanbul, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Hagia Sophia. This iconic mosque is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Topkapı Palace, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Turkey makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Turkey also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Istanbul.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Reggae Br Shot & Food, known for its inviting atmosphere. Just Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Turkey!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Turkey offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Istanbul and drive in the direction of Fatih for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Bolu, where you’ll stay for 5 nights.

Check out the timeless market, Grand Bazaar. Afterward, continue to Spice Bazaar, a market every traveler should visit. As you explore Istanbul’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Süleymaniye Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is an essential stop. Following that, head to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bolu. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Turkey.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bolu has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining spot in Bolu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kubbealti. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bolu.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bolu.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Turkey.

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Turkey, you’ll go deep into Bolu, where you'll stay for 4 nights, and see some of the region’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the region's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bolu, and meet locals along the way!

One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Lake Abant. This serene lake will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Akkaya Travertenleri and learn what makes this visually striking rock formation unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Atatürk Orman Park. After exploring the park, head to Golcuk Nature Park. This notable park is a highlight in Bolu.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Turkey more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bolu offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Bolu offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Oklava offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bolu Hanzade Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bolu.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bolu.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Turkey. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Turkey tomorrow with new energy.

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bolu, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Turkey are extraordinary.

Your adventure in Bolu is only getting started when you visit Kapankaya Seyir Terası, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Yedigöller National Park. This notable national park is known for its serene appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bolu's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Yedigöller Waterfall. This romantic waterfall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Turkey. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Turkey and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Turkey, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Bolu.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, a top-rated dining spot in Bolu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri), another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bolu.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bolu and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Turkey!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Turkey, you’ll explore the area around Bolu, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Bolu will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Turkey.

Your adventure in Bolu is only getting started when you visit Kocahan, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary. This up-and-coming bird watching area is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bolu's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Davutoglu National Park.

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

Exploring the food culture in Bolu offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kaybedenler Kulübü Meyhane Bolu, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kasri Kebap Bolu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KÖFTECİ HASAN. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Turkey!

On day 8 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Turkey, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Enjoy all that Dolmabahçe Palace has to offer. This is a spectacular palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Ortaköy Square, a notable public square in Bolu.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Yıldız Park, another of the town’s interesting attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Galata Tower, a culturally significant place of interest in the town.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Istanbul. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Turkey, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.

Make sure to reserve a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pierre Loti Hotel, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Istanbul and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Istanbul!