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Road trips in Turkey

6-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Sakarya and Bursa

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Photo of ships in Golden Horn bay of Istanbul and mosque with Sultanahmet district against blue sky and clouds, Turkey.

Photo of beautiful view on Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey.

6-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Istanbul traveling south to Sakarya and Bursa

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Explore the best of Turkey on a remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, Sakarya, and Bursa.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Turkey. You will spend 3 nights in Istanbul, 1 night in Sakarya, and 1 night in Bursa. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Istanbul, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Galata Tower and Spice Bazaar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Istanbul, Fatih, Beyoğlu, Sakarya, and Bursa, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.

Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!

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Day1

Day 1

Istanbul - Arrival day
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Gülhane Park
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Istanbul and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Istanbul, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Istanbul is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Gülhane Park. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Istanbul. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in 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 Istanbul, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Legacy Ottoman Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Salute Pub & Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Erhan Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Malt Bar Gayrettepe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Rounder's Irish Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Turkey!

Day2

Day 2

Istanbul
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Drive 3 km, 45 min

Hagia Sophia
Basilica Cistern
Sultanahmet Square
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Hagia Sophia is an essential stop in Istanbul. This wondrous mosque provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Basilica Cistern, a photogenic archeological site, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sultanahmet Square, a notable public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the extraordinary Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

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.

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.

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.

Day3

Day 3

Istanbul
Fatih
Beyoğlu
Sakarya
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Drive 154 km, 2 hours 53 min

Grand Bazaar
Süleymaniye Mosque
Spice Bazaar
Topkapı Palace
Galata Tower
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Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Turkey includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Istanbul, Fatih, and Beyoğlu. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sakarya, where you'll spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Grand Bazaar has to offer. This is a world-famous market you should not miss. Another must-see is Spice Bazaar, a world-famous market in Istanbul.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Topkapı Palace.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fatih.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Süleymaniye Mosque, a top-rated mosque that everyone visiting Fatih should see.

After soaking in Istanbul’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beyoğlu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Beyoğlu, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Galata Tower, a world-famous observation deck that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Sakarya 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 Sakarya.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hakiki Rumeli Koftecisi, an iconic dining spot in Sakarya. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kebapcibey, a popular restaurant in Sakarya. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Turkey!

Day4

Day 4

Sakarya
Bursa
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Drive 204 km, 2 hours 37 min

Grand Mosque of Bursa
Koza Han
Heykel
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bursa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bursa, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bursa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bursa beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Bursa is Bursa Grand Mosque, a well-known mosque that draws attention for its breathtaking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Koza Han, a standout market that stands out in the city.

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 Heykel, a beloved public square that offers a unique experience.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kitap Evi Otel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tabipler Lokali? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Abidin Usta as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bursa.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at My Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cemil is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day5

Day 5

Bursa
Istanbul
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 39 min

Green Tomb
Emir Sultan Mosque
Davut Dede Camii
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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 place, which are Bursa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul, where will spend 1 night.

Green Tomb leaves a lasting impression. This monument is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Bursa.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Emir Sultan Mosque. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the mosque before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Davut Dede Camii. This underrated mosque is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Istanbul at Pierre Loti Hotel, 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 By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Istanbul tonight.

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

Day6

Day 6

Istanbul - Departure day
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Beyazıt Square
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Day 6 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Istanbul before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Beyazıt Square, an eye-catching public square before you head out.

For a shopping spree in Istanbul, we recommend the lively Olive City Shopping Center. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Istanbul.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Resto Han, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Istanbul. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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