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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Topkapı Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,459 visitors. Topkapı Palace welcomes around 1,932,726 visitors every year.

Hagia Sophia is another popular attraction you could visit today. This minor basilica has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 129,265 visitors.

Basilica Cistern is also highly recommended by travelers. This palace has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 71,523 visitors.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 95,369 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Istanbul has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Istanbul offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Istanbul by securing a reservation at Calipso Fish. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Arkestra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Karga Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Just Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

Say good night to Istanbul and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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, and Fatih. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kocaeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Grand Bazaar is a great place to start. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Spice Bazaar. This bazaar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,628 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Süleymaniye Mosque. The mosque has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Pierre Loti Hill. This tea house is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 31,469 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Fatih and set your GPS to Kocaeli. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Upon reaching Kocaeli, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Eyüp Sultan Mosque your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 59,048 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kocaeli, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Kocaeli, 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 book a table at Marina Cafe Sekapark, a popular restaurant in Kocaeli. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kocaeli at Romano Cafe Restaurant, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Cafe Kristo Izmit. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Kocaeli tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting 262 Live Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Babel Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Doping Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day 5 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Ankara. You have 1 night left in Ankara. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Haci Bayram Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,925 visitors.

Next, make your way to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This top attraction is a national museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,978 visitors. Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations welcomes 450,000 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Ankara Castle. This castle is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,722 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,648 travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Golden Pavilion Museum, a highly-rated dining destination in Ankara. If you're eager to try something different, consider Afganistan Sofrası, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ankara this evening.

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 Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fat Boy Bar & Grill provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Çankaya, and Ankara, 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Independence Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Anıtkabir. This mausoleum has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 120,860 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,678 visitors.

Çankaya welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Kuğulu Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,340 reviews.

Next up is Seğmenler Parkı. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,391 visitors.

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.

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

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 3 vibrant destinations - Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, and Eskişehir. 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dede Korkut Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,037 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Odunpazarı, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Eskişehir to Odunpazarı may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Odunpazarı, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,813 reviews.

Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,931 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Odunpazarı, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tepebaşı. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Tepebaşı, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,847 visitors.

Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,091 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bursa, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Kitap Evi Otel, an iconic dining spot in Bursa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tabipler Lokali, a popular restaurant in Bursa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at My Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cemil offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 8 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Üsküdar, and Beyoğlu. 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 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bursa and set your GPS to Üsküdar. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. Upon reaching Üsküdar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,341 visitors.

Yıldız Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,811 visitors.

Dolmabahçe Palace is also highly recommended by travelers. This palace has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 77,834 visitors.

Beyoğlu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Üsküdar behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Beyoğlu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Miniatürk. This miniature park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,484 visitors.

When you’re finished at Miniatürk, head to Galata Tower. This one-of-a-kind tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Resto Han is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.