5-Day Istanbul Road Trip Adventure

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on August 20, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring delicious cheeses, olives, and fresh bread.
Located in the Cihangir neighborhood, this is a perfect way to fuel up before a day of sightseeing.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the grand Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture that transitioned from a cathedral to a mosque.
A 10-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
TRY300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy delicious Turkish meatballs known as 'köfte' at this historical eatery.
Located near the Sultanahmet area, perfect after visiting the Hagia Sophia.
TRY150, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through the Basilica Cistern

Uncover the ancient underground cistern, featuring stunning columns and a unique ambiance.
A short 5-minute walk from lunch.
TRY200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Topkapi Palace

Wander through the imperial rooms and gardens of the former palace of Ottoman sultans.
Only a 10-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern.
TRY350, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Aheste

Indulge in a delightful dining experience featuring traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist.
Located in the nearby Karaköy district.
TRY400, 2 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Bursa

Bursa, Turkey on August 21, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Bursa.
Make sure to check out early for a full day in Bursa.
TRY100, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Bursa

Set off on your two-hour drive to Bursa, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture.
Driving via the D575 road.
N/A, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Green Mosque

Marvel at the exquisite tilework and striking architecture of the Green Mosque (Yesil Mosque).
Located in the heart of Bursa.
TRY200, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Koza Han

Wander through this historic silk market filled with shops and cafes, perfect for souvenirs.
Just a 10-minute walk from the Green Mosque.
FREE, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at İskender Kebap

Treat yourself to the famous Iskender kebab, a culinary experience you won’t forget.
Located near Koza Han.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Uludağ National Park

Head to this beautiful national park for stunning views and leisurely walks in nature.
Drive about 30 minutes from the city center.
TRY100, 3 hours

6:30PM

Drive back to Istanbul

Return to Istanbul after a day filled with experiences.
The drive takes around 2 hours.
N/A, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Çiya Sofrası

Experience diverse Anatolian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, a perfect way to end the day.
Located on the Asian side, easily accessible from your hotel.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Retreat in Sapanca

Sapanca, Turkey on August 22, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading out to Sapanca.
Aim to leave early for a refreshing day in nature.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sapanca

Enjoy the scenic drive to Sapanca, known for its serene lake and lush pine forests.
The drive will take about an hour via the D100 road.
N/A, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sapanca Lake

Relax by the lake, take photos, or rent a paddle boat for a leisurely ride.
Direct access from the parking area near the lake.
TRY150, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Lakeside Restaurant

Dine with a view at this restaurant known for fresh fish and refreshing salads.
A short walk from the lake.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Nature Walk in Maşukiye Valley

Embark on a peaceful nature walk in the picturesque Maşukiye Valley, surrounded by nature.
A 20-minute drive from the lake.
FREE, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Kartepe

Explore Kartepe, famous for its panoramic views and outdoor activities.
Drive approximately 30 minutes from Maşukiye.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Drive to Kocaeli

Make your way to Kocaeli for the night's stay, about a 30-minute drive.
Via the D100 route.
N/A, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Check-in to Hotel

Relax and freshen up after a long day of exploration.
Choose a hotel near the coastal area for beautiful views.
TRY600, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Fıstık Kebap

Delight in wonderful local kebabs at this popular restaurant.
Situated near the hotel.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Kocaeli

Kocaeli, Turkey on August 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore Kocaeli.
Don’t forget to grab a coffee to go!
TRY100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Seka Park

Take a soothing morning stroll in Seka Park, situated right along the coast.
Just a short drive from your hotel.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Kocaeli Museum

Dive into the rich history of Kocaeli in this fascinating museum.
A short drive from Seka Park.
TRY150, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tavanarasi

Sample delicious Turkish dishes while enjoying the waterfront views.
Located near the museum.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kartepe Ski Resort

Explore this popular ski resort, which offers splendid views and summer hiking trails.
Drive approximately 30 minutes from the restaurant.
FREE, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Kocaeli town center

Take the short drive back to the town center to rest and freshen up.
Back to the hotel for a chill-out session.
N/A, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Yenikoy Meyhanesi

Finish the day with a delightful meal featuring local seafood and mezes.
Located nearby, within walking distance.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on August 24, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Kocaeli and prepare for the return to Istanbul.
Check out of the hotel after breakfast.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Istanbul

Make the journey back to Istanbul, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
The drive will take approximately 1.5 hours.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Grand Bazaar

Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar for last-minute shopping and souvenir hunting.
Located in the heart of Istanbul.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Savor traditional Turkish fare in picturesque surroundings within the Spice Bazaar.
Just a 10-minute walk from the Grand Bazaar.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Spice Bazaar

Wander through the aromatic Spice Bazaar, sampling local delights and picking up herbs.
Next to Pandeli, easily walkable.
FREE, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus, witnessing the beauty of Istanbul from the water.
Depart from nearby docks.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Meze by LemonTree

A fabulous way to end the trip with exquisite mezes and stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Located in the Uskudar neighborhood.
TRY400, 2 hours
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