9-Day Turkey Road Trip from Istanbul traveling south to Bursa, Izmir, Yalova, and Bolu

Say hello to Istanbul! Your exciting road trip through Turkey is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Istanbul for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Istanbul is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Gülhane Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Istanbul. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Istanbul. 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.

Savor the flavors at Mitani Cafe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Divella Bistro Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Istanbul tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rock Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Turkey!

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.

Make Süleymaniye Mosque your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 53,090 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Basilica Cistern. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 71,523 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this palace every year.

Hagia Sophia is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 129,265 visitors.

When you’re finished at Hagia Sophia, the perfect next stop is Topkapı Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 97,459 reviews. Topkapı Palace attracts approximately 1,932,726 visitors annually.

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.

As you explore more of Istanbul, 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 memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Karga Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Just Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Istanbul, and Fatih. 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.

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 Sultanahmet Square. The park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,594 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,369 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Istanbul, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Fatih may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Fatih, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a remarkable mosque where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 59,048 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 Bursa. Bursa 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 Bursa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Kitap Evi Otel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tabipler Lokali beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Dobruca Derebahçe Sosyal Tesisleri. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at My Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cemil provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Karabağlar, Izmir, and Konak. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Izmir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bursa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Karabağlar. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at İzmir Historical Elevator Building, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,807 reviews.

Izmir’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Karabağlar behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Izmir welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,395 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Izmir, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Izmir. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Izmir by securing a reservation at Tavacı Recep Usta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of turkish, and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, celebrated for its delectable turkish menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Catch. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Stone Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bonema Cafe & Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring 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.

On day 5 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 Izmir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Yalova, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,680 visitors.

Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,479 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Yalova, 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 Yalova. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Dörtyol Kokoreç, a popular restaurant in Yalova. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Yalova at Sandal Balık, 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 Yalova Sütlüsü. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Yalova tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Guitar Heroes, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Divan Teras Cafe & Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Yucca Live Performance. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Beyoğlu, and Üsküdar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bolu, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beyoğlu. This car ride takes around 1 hour 25 min.

Take the opportunity to see Galata Tower. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 172,160 visitors.

Set your GPS to Üsküdar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Üsküdar beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Dolmabahçe Palace. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 77,834 visitors.

Next, make your way to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,341 reviews.

While in Üsküdar, we also recommend a visit to Yıldız Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,811 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 Bolu. Bolu 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bolu, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

After soaking in Bolu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ankara. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 4 min. When you arrive in Ankara, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Anıtkabir, a remarkable mausoleum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 120,860 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Independence Park. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Çankaya. This car ride takes around 11 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Kuğulu Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,340 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Seğmenler Parkı. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,391 travelers.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Gaye Otel, a top-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Oklava. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Bolu, and Sarıyar, 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 Istanbul. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Beyazıt Cami. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 830 reviews.

Golcuk Nature Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,749 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sarıyar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lake Abant. This lake is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,703 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider Resto Han, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day 9 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Istanbul before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Turkey unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Istanbul's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Turkey.

Kick off the day at Beyazıt Square, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 25,152 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Istanbul.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hanzade Terrace Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Istanbul. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!