One-Week Relaxed 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!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the famous Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a breathtaking mosque in Istanbul. Next, go to Sultanahmet Square.

After visiting Sultan Ahmed Mosque and Sultanahmet Square, have a stroll along Istanbul's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Grand Bazaar. This heritage-rich market offers a unique experience. Spice Bazaar is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the most monumental places to visit in Istanbul.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Sankai by Nagaya, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Istanbul is Arkestra, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious fusion menu.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Istanbul and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Reggae Br Shot & Food after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Just Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Turkey, you’ll go deep into Istanbul, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Istanbul, and meet locals along the way!

Istanbul is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a mosque, an archeological site, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the impressive Topkapı Palace and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hagia Sophia, a picture-perfect mosque that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Basilica Cistern, one of the city’s most impressive spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the widely recognized Gülhane Park.

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

Bring home unique finds from Istanbul's bustling shopping hub, Istinye Park. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Istinye Park offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Savor the flavors at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pierre Loti Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Istanbul tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Istanbul and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Turkey!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Turkey promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Beyoğlu and drive in the direction of the town of Üsküdar for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bolu, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Istanbul, including an observation deck, a palace, a public square, a mosque, a park and much more! Start your day at Galata Tower. This history-steeped observation deck is a wondrous place to see in Istanbul. Then, wander over to Dolmabahçe Palace. If romantic sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Ortaköy Square. This history-steeped public square is a favorite among visitors.

Istanbul offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Büyük Mecidiye Mosque is a locally renowned spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the mosque, don’t forget to check out the mesmerizing Yıldız Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned park.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bolu. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ANTEP SOFRASI, a highly-rated dining destination in Bolu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hanımeli Yemek Salonu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kubbealti. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bolu this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Bolu and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Turkey!

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

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Kapankaya Seyir Terası. This locally appreciated observation deck is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Yedigöller National Park, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out Yedigöller Waterfall, one of the most beloved places to see in Bolu. This waterfall is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Serin Lake. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this lake offers.

Turkey makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, an iconic dining spot in Bolu. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oklava, a popular restaurant in Bolu. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bolu Hanzade Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bolu. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Turkey!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Turkey means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bolu. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bolu. 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 Bolu!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bolu, including a rock formation and a park. Start your day at Akkaya Travertenleri. This stunning rock formation is an up-and-coming place to see in Bolu. Then, wander over to Atatürk Orman Park. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Golcuk Nature Park. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Turkey by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bolu. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bolu that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Turkey more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bolu to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Turkey. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bolu, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at GRAND KEBAP BOLU, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hünkar Sofrası (Ahmet Usta'nın Yeri) offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bolçi Cafe Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bolu.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bolu’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Turkey.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Turkey!