Bursa - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Bursa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bursa, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bursa and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bursa, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Bursa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bursa

Bursa is a city in northwest Turkey, located about 100 km southeast of Istanbul. It is the fourth most populous city in Turkey, famous for its stunning natural scenery, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage. Bursa was once the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire and is now home to many historical landmarks such as the Grand Mosque, Green Tomb, and the Bursa Castle. The city is also known for its production of silk and is home to an epicurean delight, Iskender kebab. Bursa offers a unique experience to visitors, who can explore the ancient history while enjoying the beauty of nature.

What to visit in Bursa

Sure, I'd be happy to help! Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Bursa along with their descriptions: 1. Bursa Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii) - This is one of the most prominent landmarks in Bursa. It was built in the 14th century by the Ottomans and is known for its intricate design featuring fine tile work and calligraphy. The mosque has 20 domes and two minarets, and the interior is stunningly beautiful.
2. Cumalıkızık Village - This charming village is located on the outskirts of Bursa and is known for its well-preserved Ottoman houses. It's a great place to get a sense of what life was like in Turkey hundreds of years ago. The village also has a market where you can buy local handicrafts and souvenirs.
3. Bursa Castle (Hisar) - Built in the 14th century by the Byzantines, this castle is perched on a hill overlooking the city of Bursa. It offers great views of the surrounding area, and the castle itself is an interesting place to explore.
4. Green Mosque (Yesil Camii) - This 15th-century mosque is known for its beautiful green tiles, which give the mosque its name. It is also one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in Bursa.
5. Bursa City Museum - This museum is located in a former hamam (Turkish bath) and showcases the history and culture of Bursa. There are exhibits on everything from traditional clothing to local cuisine.
6. Tombs of Osman and Orhan - These tombs are located in the city center and are the final resting places of the founders of the Ottoman Empire. They are beautifully decorated and offer a glimpse into Turkey's rich history.
7. Tophane Neighborhood - This historic neighborhood is located near the city center and is known for its narrow streets, traditional houses, and old city walls. It's a great place to take a leisurely walk and soak up some of Bursa's history and culture.
8. Bursa Silk Market - This market is located in the historic Koza Han building and is the best place to buy silk products in Bursa. The market is a hub of activity and offers everything from scarves and shawls to traditional Turkish dresses.
I hope this list helps you plan your trip to Bursa! Let me know if you have any other questions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bursa.

When to go on holiday to Bursa

The best time to visit Bursa is between April and June or September and November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. In summer, the temperatures can be hot and humid, and in winter, it can be quite chilly. However, if you want to experience snow sports in the nearby mountains, winter is a good time to visit. Keep in mind that Bursa can get crowded during peak season, so if you prefer a quieter experience, you may want to consider traveling in the shoulder seasons.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bursa

Bursa can be reached by several modes of transportation: 1. By plane: Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) and Atatürk International Airport (IST) are the nearest international airports to Bursa. Once you land at either airport, you can take a shuttle or a bus to Bursa. The journey takes around 2-3 hours.
2. By bus: Buses to Bursa are available from Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, and other Turkish cities. The journey time varies depending on the starting point, but it usually takes around 3-4 hours from Istanbul.
3. By car: Bursa is well connected to Istanbul and other major cities in Turkey through a network of highways. The drive from Istanbul takes about 2-3 hours depending on the traffic.
4. By ferry: You can take a ferry from Istanbul to Yalova, which is a short distance from Bursa. From Yalova, you can take a bus or a taxi to Bursa. The ferry trip takes about an hour.
I recommend checking the schedules and prices of each option to find the most convenient and affordable one for your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bursa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bursa

Some of the typical foods of Bursa, Turkey are: 1. Iskender Kebab: A popular dish made of grilled lamb, tomato sauce and fresh butter served on a bed of fried bread and yogurt. 2. Manti: Small dumplings made with dough and stuffed with minced meat or cheese and served with garlic yogurt sauce and melted butter. 3. Inegol Kofte: Grilled meatballs made of ground lamb or beef mixed with spices, bread crumbs, and onion, typically served with a side of salad and pide (Turkish bread). 4. Kumpir: Baked potatoes filled with a range of toppings including cheese, sausage, corn, pickles, and olives. 5. Kemalpasa Tatli: A sweet dessert made of pastry balls infused with simple syrup and topped with clotted cream or kaymak. 6. Sutlac: A rice pudding-like dessert made with milk, sugar, and rice, topped with nuts or raisins. 7. Kestane Seker: Sweet chestnuts roasted with sugar syrup and served as a traditional Turkish sweet.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Bursa an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other destinations in Turkey, such as Istanbul, Bursa can be considered slightly less expensive. However, the cost of traveling to and within Bursa will depend on your individual travel preferences and budget. Accommodation and dining options can range from budget to high-end, so it is possible to travel to Bursa on a budget or to splurge on luxury experiences. Additionally, entrance fees to historic sites and attractions may also be a factor in your budget planning. Overall, Bursa can be considered a reasonably priced destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Bursa

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Bursa in Turkey are: 1. Cumalikizik: A charming Ottoman village located on the outskirts of Bursa with traditional wooden houses and cobblestone streets.
2. Uludag National Park: A popular area for outdoor activities and skiing in the winter months.
3. Mudanya: A coastal town with a picturesque harbor and seafood restaurants.
4. City Center: The heart of Bursa with easy access to the city's historical sites, markets, and restaurants.
5. Osmangazi: A modern district with shopping centers and a lively nightlife scene.
It's important to consider your personal preferences and travel itinerary when choosing accommodation in Bursa.
You can check hotel prices at Bursa here:
Booking.com

Is Bursa a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bursa is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. The crime rate in Bursa is relatively low and the city is well-equipped with law enforcement and security personnel to keep visitors and locals safe. However, as with any travel destination, it's always important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone late at night, keeping your valuables secure, and being cautious in crowded areas and tourist spots.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bursa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bursa the most?

Bursa, Turkey is a place that offers something for all types of travelers. It has a rich history, beautiful architecture, thermal baths, and scenic nature, which appeal to families, couples, and young people alike.
For families, one of the top attractions is the Bursa Zoo, where children can see various animals up close. The city's parks and gardens, such as the Bursa City Park, Cumalikizik Village, and Emirsultan Park, are also ideal places for families to spend time together.
Couples can enjoy the romantic ambiance of the city's iconic Ulu Cami Mosque and the historic Cumalikizik Village. The thermal baths are also a perfect romantic experience for couples.
Young people looking for fun can explore the vibrant nightlife of the city, starting with Karagoz Museum and Moving Toy Museum, cafes, and restaurants.
Therefore, Bursa, Turkey, is a place where everyone can enjoy their trip and create unforgettable memories.

How to get around Bursa

In Bursa, you can use various modes of transportation to move around, including buses, minibusses (called dolmuş), taxis, and the metro. The metro is a convenient option for traveling between different districts of Bursa, while the minibusses and taxis are more suitable for getting around within a specific area. Additionally, walking is a great way to explore the city, especially in the historic areas.

What to see around Bursa

Here are some great places to visit on a day trip from Bursa: 1. Cumalikizik Village - This charming village is located on the outskirts of Bursa and is known for its traditional Ottoman-style houses and tranquil atmosphere.
2. Green Tomb (Yesil Turbe) - This historic mausoleum is located in the neighboring district of Muradiye and is an important landmark for the Ottoman Empire.
3. Iznik (Nicaea) - This ancient city is located about 70 kilometers from Bursa and is known for its impressive Byzantine architecture, including the famous Hagia Sophia of Iznik.
4. Uludag National Park - This stunning natural park is located just outside of Bursa and boasts scenic mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
5. Mudanya - This picturesque seaside town is located about 25 kilometers from Bursa and is known for its scenic waterfront, fish markets, and charming Ottoman-era buildings.
6. Tophane - This historic district is located in the heart of Bursa and is home to several important Ottoman-era landmarks, including the Tophane Clock Tower and the Grand Mosque.
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