Istanbul route: Istanbul Apartment to Galata Bridge, 33 km
This 33.3 km route through Istanbul, Turkey connects the Istanbul Apartment to the Galata Bridge, marking the departure point before heading toward Cappadocia instead of the original Georgia plan. The journey captures the transition from urban Istanbul to open-road travel in a converted Land Rover Defender.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Istanbul Apartment
- End
- Cappadocia
- Stops
- 4
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Istanbul Apartment — Eva's apartment in Istanbul where she spent a week editing before departure
- Galata Bridge — Historic bridge crossing from Europe to Asia; departure point for eastbound drive
- Original plan: Georgia — Caucasus nation known for ancient wine traditions, dramatic mountain landscapes, and historic churches perched on cliffsides and mountain peaks.
- Cappadocia — Alternative destination chosen instead of Georgia due to cold weather and sleeping space constraints
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Galata Bridge connects Europe and Asia in Istanbul. You can drive across it to transition from Europe to Asia.
- Avoid
- Central Istanbul streets are very narrow with almost no parking spots. Parking is extremely difficult in the city center.
- Transport
- Google Maps may route you through difficult off-road muddy dirt patches instead of easier main roads. Check alternative routes carefully.
- Timing
- Mountain areas in Georgia get very cold, especially in tents. Consider visiting in warmer months or opt for southern Turkey instead.
- Tip
- Turkish locals offer generous help to travelers. Locals may assist with fire-starting materials like pitch-pine wood and provide tools like tongs.
- Tip
- Turkish hospitality includes offering çay (tea) and inviting visitors to their homes. Expect friendly interactions from locals.
- Where to stay
- Cappadocia is touristy and commercialized but visually stunning. Despite crowds, the natural landscape justifies a visit.
- Transport
- Land Rover Defenders can get stuck in mud despite being 4x4 vehicles. Be prepared for potential getting stuck situations on rough terrain.
- Transport
- When driving manual 4x4 vehicles at speeds over 80 km/h, cabin noise is very loud, making conversation difficult.
Video on this route
This Was NOT the Plan (Back to Living in My Truck)