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

On day 2 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.

Today’s itinerary in Istanbul covers several incredible sights, including a park, an archeological site, a mosque, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Gülhane Park. This impressive park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Basilica Cistern, a must-see archeological site in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Hagia Sophia. This wondrous mosque offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Topkapı Palace, where you can take in breathtaking features.

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 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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Reggae Br Shot & Food is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Just Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Istanbul, Fatih, and Eyüpsultan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bolu, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

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

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Istanbul by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Süleymaniye Mosque. This awe-inspiring mosque is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Eyüp Sultan Mosque also adds charm to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bolu. Bolu 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 Bolu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hanımeli Yemek Salonu beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kubbealti. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bolu tonight.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Turkey promises a magnificent time exploring Bolu. You have 1 night left in Bolu. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Yedigöller National Park. This notable national park is an eye-catching place to see in Bolu. Continue your discovery at Yedigöller Waterfall, a majestic waterfall with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bolu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this region so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Serin Lake. This intriguing lake offers an eye-catching encounter with Bolu.

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 Bolu. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Et Evi -Bolu Çiftliği, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Oklava beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bolu Hanzade Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bolu tonight.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bolu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ankara. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your adventure at Upper Stone Inn. This up-and-coming sightseeing destination is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Beyazıt Cami, a must-see mosque in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Orta Hamam. This beloved spa offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Golcuk Nature Park, where you can take in instagrammable features.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Ankara's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Muddy Waters, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Nil Rock Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Always Rock Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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.

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Ankara, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Set out on a day brimming with picturesque spots, history-rich sites, and family-friendly attractions. Start at the notable Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a history-steeped museum in Ankara. Next, go to Ankara Castle.

After visiting Ulucanlar Prison Museum and Ankara Castle, take time to explore Ankara's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations. This standout museum offers a unique experience. Haci Bayram Mosque is another noteworthy stop.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Ankara's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Golden Pavilion Museum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Afganistan Sofrası. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ankara tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at On An On Rock Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, London Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Nefes Bar // Bi' Nefes Özgürlük offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

Today’s itinerary in Ankara covers several incredible sights, including a park, a monument, and a museum. Start your adventure at Seğmenler Parkı. This captivating park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Kuğulu Park, a must-see park in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Independence Park. This notable park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Anıtkabir, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi. This historic museum offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a popular restaurant in Ankara. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ankara at Zaytung Zone, 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 Bade'M Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ankara tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Fat Boy Bar & Grill. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to 21 Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Soul Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Keçiören and Ankara, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Eskişehir. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and sacred landmarks in Ankara. Begin your sightseeing with Keçiören Belediyesi Deniz Dünyası. This frequently visited aquarium is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Keçiören Evcil Hayvanlar Parkı, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Ankara, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Beştepe Millet Camii. This worthwhile mosque is a traveler-favorite.

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.

As you explore more of Eskişehir, 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 a lovely meal at Ciğerci Ahmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Oda Restoran is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Eskişehir tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 9 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 Odunpazarı, Eskişehir, and Tepebaşı. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Eskişehir’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark. This instagrammable park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of Eskişehir Etİ Archaeological Museum, a must-visit 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, a frequently visited park. For a change of scene, check out Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, known for its picture-perfect features.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bursa. 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 Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tabipler Lokali, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Abidin Usta. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, My Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cemil is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Turkey!