Ultimate 14-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Istanbul, Turkey

Day 1: Introduction to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your journey with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring menemen and fresh bread.
Located in Cihangir, you can easily reach it from the center of Istanbul.
TRY80, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Marvel at the stunning architecture and history of Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Walk to Sultanahmet Square where Hagia Sophia is situated.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs served with rice and fresh salad.
Located right next to Hagia Sophia, making it a convenient stop.
TRY100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Discover the former residence of Ottoman sultans with its incredible collections and stunning gardens.
It's only a 10-minute walk from Sultanahmet.
TRY300, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zubeyir Ocakbasi

Relish grilled meats in a lively atmosphere, a favorite among locals.
A short 10-minute drive from Topkapi Palace.
TRY250, 2 hours
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Day 2: Culture and Shopping

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Çınaraltı Cafe

Savor a leisurely breakfast by the Bosphorus with a view.
Take a drive to the Ortaköy area of Istanbul.
TRY90, 1 hour

9:30AM

Walk around Ortaköy Mosque

Experience the beauty of this picturesque mosque on the water's edge.
It’s within walking distance from the café.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Grand Bazaar

Shop for souvenirs and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market.
Head back towards the city center to find the bazaar.
VARIES, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy exquisite Turkish cuisine inside the bazaar.
Located within the Grand Bazaar.
TRY120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Spice Bazaar

Sample and purchase a range of spices and sweets unique to the region.
A short walk from the Grand Bazaar.
FREE, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Finish the day with a delicious kebab dinner overlooking the Golden Horn.
Drive about 15 minutes from the Spice Bazaar.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historical Insights

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at MOC Istanbul

Enjoy specialty coffee and a breakfast with a local twist.
Located in the trendy Galata neighborhood.
TRY80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Galata Tower

Climb to the top of this medieval stone tower for panoramic views of the city.
It’s a short walk from the café.
TRY150, 1 hour

11:00AM

Walk down Istiklal Street

Stroll along this historic shopping street filled with shops and eateries.
Continue walking from Galata Tower down to Istiklal.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lades Restaurant

Taste delicious traditional Turkish pide (flatbread) in a cozy setting.
Located off Istiklal Street.
TRY100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Explore the lavish palace that combines European and Ottoman architectural styles.
Drive or take the tram to Beşiktaş.
TRY250, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Beşir's

Enjoy traditional dishes like sarma and stuffed grape leaves in a homely atmosphere.
Located a short drive away from the palace in Beşiktaş.
TRY180, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Bursa, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Home

Fuel up with a simple breakfast before setting off.
Prepare and pack food for your journey.
TRY50, 30 mins

9:00AM

Drive to Bursa

Enjoy scenic views on your journey to Bursa.
Take the D575 highway; it’s about a 2-hour drive.
FREE, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Uludağ National Park

Explore the beautiful nature and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or skiing, depending on the season.
Head directly to the national park entrance.
TRY65, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Kebapçı İskender

Savor the famous Iskender kebab for a truly local experience.
Located in the heart of Bursa, easily accessible.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Koza Han

Explore this historic silk market and shop for local textiles.
It’s a short drive from the restaurant.
FREE, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ceylan Restaurant

Choose from a variety of delicious Turkish dishes in a warm atmosphere.
Close to Koza Han.
TRY180, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Historical Exploration

Iznik, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hotel breakfast to get energized for the day.
Located at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Iznik

Travel 1 hour to reach the historic town of Iznik.
Take the D575 road.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Iznik's Ancient Walls

Explore the remains of the ancient city walls of Iznik.
Located within the city.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Hagia Sophia of Iznik

A beautiful example of Byzantine architecture and history.
Short drive from the walls.
TRY150, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Mavi Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal with lakeside views.
Located near the lake.
TRY130, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Iznik Tile Museum

Discover the exquisite historical ceramics that made Iznik famous.
Located within the town center.
TRY80, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive back to Bursa

Return to Bursa for a relaxing evening.
Travel back to the same route.
FREE, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner atç Turşucu Emmi

Enjoy classic Turkish dishes, especially fresh pickles.
Located in the city center.
TRY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Natural Beauty

Sapanca, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with your breakfast at the hotel.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sapanca

Experience a picturesque 1.5-hour drive to Sapanca.
Via Sakarya - D100 road.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Sapanca Lake

Relax by the lake or try activities like cycling or picnicking.
Easily accessible from the main road.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cennet Gölü Restaurant

Enjoy your meal with a beautiful lakeside view and fresh fish dishes.
Located by the lake.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Maşukiye

Discover the lush greenery and waterfalls in this scenic area.
Just a short drive from Sapanca Lake.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Maşukiye Restaurant

Enjoy dinner with a focus on local cuisine, especially trout.
Located in Maşukiye.
TRY180, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Local Delights

Adapazarı, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Start your day with some local bread and cheese.
Find a nearby café in Sapanca.
TRY50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Adapazarı

It's a quick 30-minute drive to reach Adapazarı.
Follow the D100 road.
FREE, 30 mins

10:00AM

Visit Sakarya Museum

Learn about the region's history and culture.
Located in the city center.
TRY40, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Explore the City Park

Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery at this centrally located park.
Just a short walk from the museum.
FREE, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kebabçı Sadi

Try the famous Adapazarı kebabs for a delicious meal.
Located near the park.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Lake Sapanca

Enjoy some leisure time or partake in water activities.
Drive back to Sapanca.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Kırkpınar Restaurant

Indulge in delicious local dishes with an emphasis on seafood.
Located by the lake.
TRY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Leisurely Return

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Home

Enjoy a home-cooked breakfast before hitting the road.
Prepare at your accommodation.
TRY50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Istanbul

Travel back to Istanbul for a restful day.
A 1.5-hour drive following the same route.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Rest at Hotel

Check in and relax at your chosen accommodation.
Find a hotel in the central area.
TRY700, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pideci Selim Usta

Enjoy delicious pide while resting after your journeys.
Located in the Fatih District.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Explore the ancient cistern with stunning columns and a tranquil atmosphere.
Take a short walk from the restaurant.
TRY180, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Neyzen Restaurant

Indulge in exquisite seafood options in a comfortable setting.
Located nearby in Sultanahmet.
TRY225, 2 hours
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Day 9: A Cultural Journey

Edirne, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before leaving for Edirne.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Edirne

Embark on a 2.5-hour drive towards Edirne.
Follow the D100 road towards Edirne.
FREE, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Selimiye Mosque

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Central Edirne, easily accessed.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Üç Şerefeli Mosque Cafe

Enjoy regional specialties in a historic setting.
Close to Selimiye Mosque.
TRY120, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Edirne's City Center

Wander through the charming streets and enjoy the local culture.
A short walk from the café.
FREE, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Old Mosque

Discover the historic architecture of this mosque with its simple yet beautiful design.
A quick walk from the city center.
FREE, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Hünkar Restaurant

Savor regional dishes with a focus on lamb and local flavors.
Located in Edirne city center.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Seaside Serenity

Tekirdağ, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting out.
Conveniently located at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Tekirdağ

Travel 1.5 hours to reach this coastal city.
Take the E5 highway towards Tekirdağ.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk along the Tekirdağ Promenade

Relax by the sea and enjoy the beautiful views.
The promenade is easily accessible from the city center.
FREE, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tekirdağ Köfteci

Taste the famous Tekirdağ meatballs, a local specialty.
Located near the promenade.
TRY120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Rakoczi Museum

Explore the fascinating history of this museum dedicated to a Hungarian leader.
A short distance from the restaurant.
FREE, 1 hour

3:30PM

Enjoy Doğan Beer

Taste local beer while enjoying the waterfront.
Easy access from the museum.
TRY80, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Kumburgaz Seafood Restaurant

Delight in fresh seafood with stunning sea views.
Located along the coast.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Countryside and Culture

Kırklareli, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kırklareli

Explore your way to Kırklareli in 1.5 hours.
Take E5 towards Kırklareli.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kırklareli Museum

Learn about the cultural heritage of the region.
Located in the city center.
TRY60, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore the City Park

Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Walking distance from the museum.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kırklareli Pide

Try the delicious local pide, a must-try dish.
Nearby the park.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Dupnisa Cave

Explore this fascinating natural cave just outside the city.
A short drive from the city.
TRY20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Kırklareli Sofrası

Enjoy traditional cuisine with a warm atmosphere.
Back in Kırklareli.
TRY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Shopping Day

Çorlu, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel to kickstart your day.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Çorlu

Make the 1-hour drive to get to Çorlu.
Via D100 road.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Çorlu Shopping Center

Enjoy shopping for unique local products.
Located in the city center.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at GırGır Cafe

Savor turkish café dishes in a friendly setting.
Close to the shopping center.
TRY70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Local Markets

Explore the colorful local markets and mingle with locals.
Easily accessible from the café.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tarihi Çorlu Kebabçısı

Try some legendary Çorlu kebabs for dinner.
Located in the heart of Çorlu.
TRY130, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Top Spots in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relax with a satisfying breakfast at your hotel as you prepare for a full day.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Chora Church

Marvel at the stunning mosaics in this historical religious site.
Travel to the Edirnekapı area.
TRY100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kariye Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine with a refreshing atmosphere.
Located right next to the church.
TRY120, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museums

Dive into the rich history of Turkey with fascinating artifacts.
A short drive from the restaurant.
TRY300, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Istiklal Street

Enjoy shopping and people-watching in this lively part of the city.
Revisit this famous street.
FREE, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mikla

Experience a fine dining experience with a view of the city skyline.
Located at the Marmara Pera Hotel.
TRY550, 2 hours
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Day 14: Departure Day

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing final breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Last-minute Shopping

Pick up some souvenirs from the Grand Bazaar or local shops.
Head to Grand Bazaar.
VARIES, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy a farewell lunch and relish your experiences in Istanbul.
Close to the Grand Bazaar.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Return to Hotel and Check-out

Relax a bit before preparing for departure.
Back to your accommodation.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Transfer to Airport

Head to the airport for your departing flight.
Use local transport or arrange an airport taxi.
TRY150, 1 hour
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