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

Day 2 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Istanbul. You have 1 night left in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Topkapı Palace. This impressive palace is an awe-inspiring place to see in Istanbul. Continue your discovery at Hagia Sophia, an UNESCO world heritage-listed mosque with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Istanbul, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Cistern. This top-rated archeological site offers an eye-catching encounter with Istanbul. Next, make your way to Gülhane Park to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Istanbul.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Calipso Fish, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sankai by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese contemporary cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Arkestra. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Reggae Br Shot & Food, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Just Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

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 - Istanbul, Fatih, and Eyüpsultan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kocaeli. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Istanbul is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Grand Bazaar, a timeless market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Spice Bazaar, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Süleymaniye Mosque. This mosque is one of the city’s most top-rated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Istanbul at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Pierre Loti Hill. After exploring the observation deck, head to the top-rated Eyüp Sultan Mosque.

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

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

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

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 4 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 Bolu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ankara, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Upper Stone Inn. Continue your discovery at Beyazıt Cami, a photogenic mosque with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Kocaeli, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Yesil Mosque. This up-and-coming mosque offers a heritage-rich encounter with Kocaeli. Next, make your way to Atatürk Orman Park to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kocaeli.

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

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

Dine in style at Livorno Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Filikos Restoran boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ankara.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Muddy Waters stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Nil Rock Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Always Rock Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Ankara, including a museum, a castle, and a mosque. Start your day at Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a popular place to see in Ankara. Then, wander over to Ankara Castle. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This photogenic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Ankara offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Haci Bayram Mosque is a well-known spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at MARTI RESTAURANT, an iconic dining spot in Ankara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Golden Pavilion Museum, a popular restaurant in Ankara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Afganistan Sofrası, a hidden gem nestled in Ankara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Altındağ, Çankaya, and Ankara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Eskişehir, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Ankara allows for both. Start by heading to Independence Park. This interesting park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Kuğulu Park, a mesmerizing park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Seğmenler Parkı, an interesting park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Metu Forest. Round off your day at Anıtkabir, another gem in Ankara with instagrammable features to discover.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ciğerci Ahmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Oda Restoran offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tatlıdil Köftecisi. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Eskişehir.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, Eskişehir, and Karacaşehir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bursa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the notable Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, an eye-catching park in Eskişehir. Next, go to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı.

After visiting Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark and Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, have a stroll along Eskişehir's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Dede Korkut Park. This gorgeous park offers a unique experience. Odunpazarı Botanik Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Eskişehir.

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

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at My Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bursa. Cemil is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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