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

On day 2 of your road trip in Turkey, you’ll start and end your day in Istanbul, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Istanbul, there’s no need to rush. Experience Beyoğlu, Istanbul, and Fatih to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Awaiting your discovery is the impressive Topkapı Palace, a respected palace in Istanbul. Next, go to Hagia Sophia.

After visiting Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, have a stroll along Istanbul's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilica Cistern. This history-steeped archeological site offers a unique experience. Grand Bazaar is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Beyoğlu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Galata Tower and explore the enchanting features.

When you’ve had your share of Fatih, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Istanbul. Your travel time is around 6 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Fatih is Laleli Mosque, an interesting mosque that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Istanbul. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Continue your lively evening at Reggae Br Shot & Food, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Just Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Cumalıkızık and Bursa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bursa, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Istanbul, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cumalıkızık. Your travel time is around 2 hours 2 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cumalikizik Village (unesco), an increasingly popular historical landmark that everyone visiting Cumalıkızık should see.

Emir Sultan Mosque is a popular mosque we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bursa, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cumalıkızık to Bursa may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bursa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Green Tomb, a beloved monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Bursa City Museum and admire its eye-catching features.

When you’re ready, continue to Koza Han, an interesting market beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Bursa Grand Mosque, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bursa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tabipler Lokali is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Abidin Usta. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bursa tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at My Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cemil provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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. Iznik and Şirin Sulhiye are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Istanbul, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bursa 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 8 min. Upon reaching Iznik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Hagia Sophia Mosque, a frequently visited mosque that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Iznik Turkish Islamic Arts Museum and admire its eye-catching features.

When you’re ready, continue to Iznik Castle, an often recommended castle beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Lefke Gate, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Şirin Sulhiye. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kartepe Seyir Tepesi. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated dining spot in Istanbul. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pierre Loti Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Istanbul.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!