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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Istanbul. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Topkapı Palace is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most impressive places to visit in Istanbul. Next, head to Hagia Sophia, an iconic mosque, known for its symbolic 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 Basilica Cistern. This visually striking archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Gülhane Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Visit Grand Bazaar in Istanbul for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Grand Bazaar has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Just Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

On day 3 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 Istanbul, Fatih, and Eyüpsultan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kocaeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Grand Bazaar, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic market is sure to impress. Next on your list is Spice Bazaar, another must-visit landmark and globally renowned market renowned for its heritage-rich features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Istanbul by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Süleymaniye Mosque. This symbolic mosque is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Istanbul experience. We also recommend visiting Pierre Loti Hill, a captivating observation deck. Nearby, you'll also find Eyüp Sultan Mosque, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a popular restaurant in Kocaeli. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Bolu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ankara, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Kocaeli. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Upper Stone Inn is the perfect place to start. This sightseeing destination is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Kocaeli. Next, head to Beyazıt Cami, an underrated mosque, known for its instagrammable 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 Yesil Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Atatürk Orman Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Livorno Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Filikos Restoran is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at New York Pizza Delivery Anıttepe. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ankara tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Muddy Waters, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Nil Rock Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Always Rock Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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

Immerse yourself in Ankara’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ulucanlar Prison Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the awe-inspiring features of Ankara Castle, a must-visit castle in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a locally renowned museum. For a change of scene, check out Haci Bayram Mosque, known for its heritage-rich features.

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

As you explore more of Ankara, 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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at On An On Rock Cafe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. London Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Altındağ, Çankaya, and Ankara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Eskişehir. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Ankara. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park and a monument. Begin your adventure at Independence Park. This is an interesting park you should not miss. Another must-see is Kuğulu Park, a locally renowned park in Ankara.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Seğmenler Parkı. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Metu Forest, another of the town’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Anıtkabir, a picture-perfect place of interest in the town.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Eskişehir. Eskişehir 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 Eskişehir. 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 Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated dining spot in Eskişehir. If you're in the mood for something new, try Oda Restoran, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Eskişehir.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Immerse yourself in Eskişehir’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. This eye-catching park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, a must-visit aviation museum in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Dede Korkut Park, an intriguing park. For a change of scene, check out Odunpazarı Botanik Park, known for its mesmerizing features. We also recommend visiting Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This zoo is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bursa, 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 Bursa, 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 delicious dinner at Kitap Evi Otel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tabipler Lokali offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Abidin Usta. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bursa.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at My Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cemil offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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