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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Istanbul has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Istanbul.

To truly experience Istanbul, make sure to drop by Grand Bazaar. This timeless market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Spice Bazaar, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Yeni Cami Mosque, one of the most popular places to see in Istanbul. This mosque is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Gülhane Park. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this park offers.

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.

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

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Istanbul and Beyoğlu.

One of the most widely recognized attractions included on the itinerary is Topkapı Palace. This picture-perfect palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hagia Sophia and learn what makes this historic mosque unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the spectacular Basilica Cistern.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Istanbul and set your GPS to Beyoğlu. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Beyoğlu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Beyoğlu is Galata Tower, an iconic observation deck that draws attention for its symbolic features.

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

Istanbul is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pierre Loti Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Turkey includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Beyoğlu and Üsküdar. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bolu, where you'll spend 4 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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 9 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Galata Bridge.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Beyoğlu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Üsküdar. This drive usually takes around 9 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Dolmabahçe Palace and explore the symbolic features. Next, make your way to Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, another highlight in Üsküdar. When you’re done exploring the mosque, continue to Ortaköy Square, a history-steeped public square.

Nearby, you will also find Yıldız Park. This locally renowned park is a top place to see in the area.

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

Dine in style at ANTEP SOFRASI, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hanımeli Yemek Salonu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kubbealti. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bolu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Turkey with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Ankara, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Altındağ.

Whether you decide to explore Altındağ on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

After soaking in Ankara’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Altındağ. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 9 min. When you arrive in Altındağ, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Altındağ is Ulucanlar Prison Museum, a well-known museum that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Ankara Castle, a historic castle that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Museum Of Anatolian Civilizations, a locally renowned museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Haci Bayram Mosque, a nearby mosque, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

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.

Dine in style at MARTI RESTAURANT, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Golden Pavilion Museum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Afganistan Sofrası. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ankara.

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.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your road trip in Turkey. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Çankaya, Altındağ, and Ankara. With 1 night to stay in Ankara, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the timeless Anıtkabir and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, a history-steeped museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ankara and set your GPS to Çankaya. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Çankaya, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Seğmenler Parkı, a popular park known for its serene features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Kuğulu Park, an interesting park.

After soaking in Çankaya’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Altındağ. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Altındağ, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Independence Park, a locally renowned park known for its visually striking features.

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 a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Urfalı Hayrağ'nın Yeri, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zaytung Zone offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bade'M Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ankara.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Turkey!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Turkey, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Keçiören and Ankara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Eskişehir, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Visiting Beştepe Millet Camii is always a good idea. This worthwhile mosque is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Keçiören welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Atatürk Bahçesi, a curiosity-inducing park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Gökçek Park, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings.

Next, explore Keçiören Belediyesi Deniz Dünyası, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Eskişehir. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

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

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Turkey.

On day 12 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Odunpazarı, Tepebaşı, and Eskişehir are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the curiosity-inducing Dede Korkut Park, an eye-catching park in Eskişehir.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Odunpazarı, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Eskişehir to Odunpazarı may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Odunpazarı, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Odunpazarı is Eskisehir Sehr-i Love Island, an up-and-coming park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Kentpark, a romantic park that stands out in the town.

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.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vecihi Hürkuş Havacılık Parkı. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the aviation museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Zoo. This worthwhile zoo is a traveler-favorite in the town.

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.

Bursa is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bursa.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bursa.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at My Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cemil. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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