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

On day 2 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 Bursa and Osmangazi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Eskişehir, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Bursa. Begin your sightseeing with Bursa Grand Mosque. This popular mosque is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Koza Han, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bursa, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Han Brass. This up-and-coming point of interest is a traveler-favorite.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Osmangazi.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Karagoz Museum, an increasingly popular museum that draws visitors from near and far.

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 Eskişehir. Eskişehir 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 Eskişehir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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.

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 1 vibrant destinations - Altındağ. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Eskişehir, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Altındağ. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 43 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Haci Bayram Mosque is a captivating mosque we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a visually striking museum that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Ankara Castle, a historic castle. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a respected and truly unique museum.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ankara, 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 Ankara's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Ankara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Filikos Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ankara.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Muddy Waters, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Nil Rock Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Always Rock Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the wondrous Anıtkabir, a culturally significant monument in Ankara. Next, go to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi.

When you’ve had your share of Ankara, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Çankaya. Your travel time is around 11 min.

Make your way to Seğmenler Parkı, an interesting park that draws attention for its peaceful features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Kuğulu Park, a romantic park that stands out in the town.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Çankaya, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Altındağ. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Independence Park, an interesting park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 delicious dinner at MARTI RESTAURANT, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Golden Pavilion Museum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Afganistan Sofrası. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ankara.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at On An On Rock Cafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to London Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Üsküdar and Beyoğlu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Istanbul, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Üsküdar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Üsküdar beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a captivating mosque that everyone visiting Üsküdar should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Ortaköy Square. This visually striking public square is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Yıldız Park, a respected park, popular among locals as well as travelers. Dolmabahçe Palace is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this astonishing palace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Beyoğlu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beyoğlu beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Galata Tower. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop.

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 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.

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 delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Rounder's Irish Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the wondrous Spice Bazaar, an eye-catching market in Istanbul. Next, go to Gülhane Park.

After visiting Spice Bazaar and Gülhane Park, take time to explore Istanbul's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilica Cistern. This historic archeological site offers a unique experience. Hagia Sophia is another noteworthy stop.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mitani Cafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Divella Bistro Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

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.

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

On day 8 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Istanbul. Your adventure starts at Topkapı Palace, an astonishing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Sultanahmet Square. This interesting public square is known for its culturally significant 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 Grand Bazaar. This respected market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Beyazıt Square 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.

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 delicious meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pierre Loti Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Turkey!