About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, most operators will tell you that a day trip to Bursa is a "spiritual journey," but let's be real—it's actually a masterclass in logistics and high-volume tourism. In an industry where everyone is chasing a higher RevPAR or squeezing every lead for an upsell, the Istanbul-to-Bursa route remains the bread and butter of the Marmara region. Most of these tours are designed to keep you moving so the occupancy rates stay high, yet there’s something genuinely undeniable about standing under a 600-year-old tree or watching the mist roll off Uludağ. It’s a bit of a whirlwind, sure, and the "shopping stops" are basically a rite of passage at this point, but if you want to escape the Istanbul concrete jungle without planning the ferry schedules yourself, this is how you do it. Just don't expect to see every hidden corner of the city; it's a highlights reel, not a deep dive.
About the Tour
Experience a seamless transition from the chaotic energy of Istanbul to the historic charm of Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. This full-day excursion blends cultural heritage with the rugged landscapes of Uludağ Mountain, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the region's most iconic landmarks.
The Journey Begins
The day kicks off with a morning pick-up (typically between 08:00 and 09:15 AM) from your hotel. You'll leave the city behind and cross the Izmir Gulf via the Osmangazi Bridge or a traditional ferry. For those looking for a bit more adrenaline before the history kicks in, there is an optional ATV Quad Safari stop in Yalova to get the blood pumping.
Flavor and Heritage
Before hitting the heavy-duty historical sites, the tour taps into Bursa’s famous culinary roots. You'll visit:
- Turkish Delight Factory: A chance to see (and taste) why Bursa is a hub for authentic sweets.
- The Ancient Tree (İnkaya): A massive, 630-year-old sycamore that has seen empires rise and fall.
- Preserved Jam House: A look into local, natural homemade jam production.
The Peak of the Day: Uludağ
After a traditional mixed grill lunch, you'll head up to Uludağ Mountain. Known as Turkey’s premier ski destination, it’s equally stunning in the summer. You will have free time to explore the mountain air, with an optional chairlift ride to the summit for panoramic views that make the long drive worth it.
Depending on your selected package and weather conditions, you can descend the mountain via the Teleferik (Cable Car), offering a birds-eye view of the dense forests and the sprawling city of Bursa below.
Cultural Landmarks
Back in the city center, the focus shifts to the "Green" side of Bursa:
- The Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii): Famous for its intricate tile work.
- The Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe): The final resting place of Sultan Mehmed I.
- Silk House (Koza Han): A historic marketplace where the silk trade has thrived for centuries.
The day concludes with the return drive to Istanbul. While we aim for a smooth transition, please keep in mind that Istanbul traffic is the one thing no tour operator can truly control!
Important Note: This is a curated highlights tour. To ensure we return to Istanbul at a reasonable hour, we stick strictly to the listed itinerary and do not visit the entirety of Bursa city.
Highlights
- Feast your eyes on the architecture and interior design of Bursa's Green Mosque
- Savor the vibrant flavors of Turkish cuisine with a local mixed grill lunch
- Marvel at views of the area on the Uludag Mountain cable car (if selected)
- Try out a range of winter sports on the mountain such as skiing or motor skiing
- Sample traditional Turkish products including Turkish delight, honey, and jam