11 Bolu to Bursa via Yalova
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RouteXpert Yannis Papadiotis (wheelboy)
Last edit: 11-04-2026
Route Summary Turkey isn’t just a country, it’s a rider’s playground. This is the 11th of 12 stage journey takes you from Aegean coastlines through mountains, plains, and fairytale valleys all the way to the Black Sea and back west again.
Each leg has its own flavor, so here’s a deeper look.
Route 11:
From Bolu toward the Marmara region, this route delivers a smooth transition from forested highlands to coastal urban landscapes. Flowing provincial roads provide relaxed riding before the dramatic crossing of the Osmangazi Bridge, a modern suspension landmark offering wide sea views over the Gulf of İzmit. In Yalova, the historic Walking Mansion honours Atatürk’s famous decision to move the building to protect a plane tree, creating a memorable cultural stop by the water. The journey continues to Bursa, the Ottoman Empire’s first capital, rich with monuments such as Ulu Cami and Koza Han.
Be aware that this stage includes toll roads and likely the crossing of the Osmangazi Bridge, where motorcycle tolls are approximately ₺700, with additional smaller highway charges. Payments are handled through the HGS, requiring a prepaid tag or sticker linked to your vehicle plate, available at PTT offices and selected fuel stations.
A strong 4* stage blending engineering spectacle, heritage exploration, and comfortable long distance touring flow.
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Verdict
Duration
4h 43m
Mode of travel
Car or motorcycle
Distance
306.84 km
Countries
RouteXpert Review Roughly 220 kilometres after the start, a second fuel stop is recommended before approaching Yalova, where the coastal atmosphere becomes dominant. Just before reaching the city, riders cross one of Turkey’s most impressive modern engineering landmarks, the Osmangazi Bridge. Spanning the Gulf of İzmit, this massive suspension bridge dramatically shortens travel time around the Marmara Sea and offers striking panoramic views over open water and shipping lanes. Riding across it feels exposed and fast, a memorable contrast to the quiet inland roads earlier in the day.
In Yalova, the main cultural stop is the historic Yürüyen Köşk, the “Walking Mansion” built in 1929 for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The residence became famous when it was physically moved several metres on rails to save a centuries-old plane tree from being cut. Today the elegant seaside villa provides excellent photography opportunities, while the nearby municipal café offers a relaxed stop for traditional Turkish coffee or tea by the Sea of Marmara.
A short stroll in the central Çarşı district reveals local character, with shops selling regional honey, floral products, and traditional silk needlework (oya). Parking is generally easy in open public areas or private lots near the ferry port, making exploration on foot convenient.
Continuing toward Bursa, the route enters one of the most historically significant cities in Turkey, once the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. The monumental Ulu Cami dominates the old centre, while the atmospheric Koza Han silk bazaar invites visitors for tea and souvenir shopping. Cultural highlights continue at the richly decorated Green Tomb, and panoramic views can be enjoyed from Tophane Park. Gastronomically, Bursa is famous as the birthplace of İskender kebap, along with traditional sweets such as candied chestnuts.
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Disclaimer
Use of this GPS route is at your own expense and risk. The route has been carefully composed and checked by a MyRoute-app accredited RouteXpert for use on TomTom, Garmin and MyRoute-app Navigation.
Changes may nevertheless have occurred due to changed circumstances, road diversions or seasonal closures. We therefore recommend checking each route before use.
Preferably use the route track in your navigation system. More information about the use of MyRoute-app can be found on the website under 'Community' or 'Academy'.
Changes may nevertheless have occurred due to changed circumstances, road diversions or seasonal closures. We therefore recommend checking each route before use.
Preferably use the route track in your navigation system. More information about the use of MyRoute-app can be found on the website under 'Community' or 'Academy'.
Nearby routes 
Kocaeli
About this region
Kocaeli Province (Turkish: Kocaeli ili, pronounced [koˈdʒaeli]) is a province of Turkey and one of only three to not have the same official name as its capital, İzmit, which is thus also sometimes called Kocaeli. The province is the successor of the Ottoman-era Sanjak of Kocaeli. The largest towns in the province are İzmit and Gebze. The traffic code is 41. The province is located at the easternmost end of the Sea of Marmara around the Gulf of İzmit. Kocaeli is bordered by the province of Istanbul and the Marmara Sea to the west, the Black Sea to the north, the province of Sakarya to the east, the province of Bursa to the south and the province of Yalova to the southwest. The metropolitan area of Istanbul extends to the Kocaeli-Istanbul provincial border. The size and natural conditions of the Bay of İzmit allow for extensive port facilities, including the Gölcük Naval Base. The province is called the industrial capital of Turkey. Kocaeli has an airport named Cengiz Topel Naval Air Station which is used for military and civilian transport. Kocaeli has two universities: Kocaeli University and Gebze Technical University.
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Route Collections in this region Riding Across Turkey Route by Route
This route collection offers a complete journey across Turkey, combining iconic landmarks with diverse landscapes.
Starting from the Aegean coast, you explore Ephesus and Pamukkale before heading inland to Lake Salda and Sagalassos. Cappadocia forms a highlight with its unique rock formations and underground cities. The route then crosses central Anatolia’s wide plains toward the rugged east, where quieter roads and dramatic scenery dominate. A major contrast follows along the Black Sea, with green mountains and coastal views. The return west through Bursa and Pergamon adds rich history.
Overall, this is a well balanced itinerary ideal for travelers seeking variety, culture, and scenic driving.
Starting from the Aegean coast, you explore Ephesus and Pamukkale before heading inland to Lake Salda and Sagalassos. Cappadocia forms a highlight with its unique rock formations and underground cities. The route then crosses central Anatolia’s wide plains toward the rugged east, where quieter roads and dramatic scenery dominate. A major contrast follows along the Black Sea, with green mountains and coastal views. The return west through Bursa and Pergamon adds rich history.
Overall, this is a well balanced itinerary ideal for travelers seeking variety, culture, and scenic driving.
View Route Collection