One-Week Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Izmir traveling north to Bursa, Istanbul, and Kocaeli

Greet day 2 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Izmir for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Konak and Izmir.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Clock Tower Of İzmir, a breathtaking monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Kemeraltı, one of the town’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Hisar Mosque. When you're finished at the mosque, Ahmed Adnan Saygun Sanat Merkezi awaits your visit. This concert hall is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Izmir by securing a table at Tavacı Recep Usta. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional turkish and traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Adil Müftüoğlu, famous for its scrumptious turkish dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Chaos Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Tattoo Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Dinosaur Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Say good night to Izmir 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 3 vibrant destinations - Izmir, Foça, and Bergama. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Izmir. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Dolphins Statue is the perfect place to start. This point of interest is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Izmir. Next, head to Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası, an intriguing observation deck, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Old Foca Coast. This standout beach is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Red Basilica. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bursa. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bursa. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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 Abidin Usta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bursa tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting My Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cemil also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 4 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Istanbul. 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 2 nights.

Bursa is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Spice Bazaar, a world-famous market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Gülhane Park, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is one of the city’s most famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bursa at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Hagia Sophia. After exploring the mosque, head to the timeless Grand Bazaar.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, 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 your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Turkey. With 1 night left in Istanbul, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the captivating Miniatürk, an instagrammable museum in Istanbul. Next, go to Galata Tower.

After visiting Miniatürk and Galata Tower, have a stroll along Istanbul's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This historic mosque offers a unique experience. Galata Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Maiden's Tower, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Istanbul.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Istanbul and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mitani Cafe, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Divella Bistro Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Reggae Br Shot & Food, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Just Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

On day 6 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 Üsküdar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kocaeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Istanbul. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a palace, a museum, a public square, a mosque, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Dolmabahçe Palace. This is a spectacular palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Naval Museum, a frequently visited museum in Istanbul.

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

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kocaeli, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top-rated dining spot in Kocaeli.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!