5-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa traveling north to Istanbul

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

Set your GPS to Üsküdar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Üsküdar beckons with new experiences!

Dolmabahçe Palace is an impressive palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Istanbul, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Üsküdar to Istanbul may take around 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Istanbul, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Hagia Sophia is an iconic mosque we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Basilica Cistern, a visually striking archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a respected mosque. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Sultanahmet Square, a visually striking and truly unique public square.

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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, where you have 1 night left to stay.

A top thing to do today is to explore Beyoğlu, a must-see neighborhood in Istanbul. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit İstiklal Avenue, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

Make a stop at Topkapı Palace. This widely recognized palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Grand Bazaar located in Istanbul for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Spice Bazaar. Its instagrammable features will captivate you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Beyoğlu, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Beyoğlu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Beyoğlu is Galata Tower, a wondrous observation deck that draws attention for its respected features.

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

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

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

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.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Turkey, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Iznik are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bursa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Istanbul and set your GPS to Iznik. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Iznik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nikeia. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Hagia Sophia Mosque. This increasingly popular mosque is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Süleyman Paşa Madrasa. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the mosque. Next, take your journey to Iznik Turkish Islamic Arts Museum, a locally appreciated museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Iznik Castle, known for its culturally significant features.

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.

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 wonderful meal at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, a top-rated dining spot in Bursa. If you're in the mood for something new, try TANDIR'AZ BURSA, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Labelle Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bursa.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kule Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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