10-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa to Istanbul, Eskişehir, Denizli, and Izmir and surrounding area

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Bursa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul, where will spend 2 nights.

Bursa City Museum leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Bursa. Next, head to Bursa Grand Mosque, a notable mosque, known for its stunning 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 Koza Han. This history-steeped market is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Uludag National Park Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Istanbul, 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 Istanbul's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Sankai by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Arkestra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing fusion menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Malt Bar Gayrettepe after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Rounder's Irish Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Head back to your accommodation in Istanbul and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey.

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Bursa. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Istanbul is brimming with adventures.

Whatever your travel style is, Spice Bazaar is an essential stop in Istanbul. This world-famous market provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Grand Bazaar, a standout market, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sultan Ahmed Mosque, an astonishing mosque. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the wondrous Hagia Sophia. Round off your day at Gülhane Park, another gem in Istanbul with history-steeped features to discover.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Turkey. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Istanbul, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mitani Cafe, a highly-rated dining destination in Istanbul. If you're eager to try something different, consider Divella Bistro Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Istanbul this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Reggae Br Shot & Food, known for its lively atmosphere. Just Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Beyoğlu and Üsküdar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Eskişehir, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Üsküdar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Beyoğlu behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Üsküdar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Galata Tower, a world-famous observation deck known for its romantic features.

When you’ve had your share of Beyoğlu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Üsküdar. Your travel time is around 14 min.

Dolmabahçe Palace is a famous palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, a stunning mosque that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Yıldız Park, a standout park.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Eskişehir, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ciğerci Ahmet, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Oda Restoran? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tatlıdil Köftecisi as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Eskişehir.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Turkey.

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Eskişehir, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Catch Dede Korkut Park before the crowds roll in. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Odunpazarı. This car ride takes around 7 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a well-known park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Tepebaşı, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Odunpazarı to Tepebaşı may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tepebaşı, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı, a worthwhile aviation museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Eskişehir, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ada Life Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Muhtelif Eskişehir is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at PİNO. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Eskişehir tonight.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Pamukkale, Denizli, and Nazilli. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Izmir, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Make time for Denizli Gondola, an up-and-coming tramway that is worthwhile a visit in the town.

Upon reaching Pamukkale, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park and explore the awe-inspiring features.

Pamukkale’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Denizli behind. This drive usually takes around 34 min. Pamukkale welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Pamukkale South Gate is a locally appreciated archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour to Travertines Of Pamukkale, an idyllic geothermal field that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Izmir. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Tavacı Recep Usta, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible turkish and traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Adil Müftüoğlu is one of the best restaurants for turkish cuisine in Izmir. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Catch, known for its lively atmosphere. Stone Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Sky Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

On day 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Karabağlar and Konak. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Izmir, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

After soaking in Izmir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Karabağlar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Karabağlar, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is İzmir Historical Elevator Building. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Karabağlar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Konak. Your travel time is around 10 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Konak Square. Then, head to Clock Tower Of İzmir. This locally renowned monument is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Kemeraltı. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the market. Next, take your journey to Hisar Mosque, an increasingly popular mosque.

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

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

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

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

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

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Turkey includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Izmir, Foça, and Tiyelti. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bursa, where you'll spend 1 night.

Let Dolphins Statue set the tone for the day. Bostanlı Günbatımı Seyir Terası is your next stop. This beloved observation deck is one of the best-rated sights in Izmir.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Foça. This car ride takes around 59 min.

Savor the day by heading to Old Foca Coast, a notable beach that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Foça and set your GPS to Tiyelti. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. Upon reaching Tiyelti, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Asclepieion Of Pergamon, a frequently visited archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, an iconic dining spot in Bursa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of TANDIR'AZ BURSA, a popular restaurant in Bursa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Labelle Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bursa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kule Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bursa.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!