Bursa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Istanbul

Discover Bursa: Turkey’s First Ottoman Capital in a Full-Day Tour from Istanbul

This Bursa Full Day Sightseeing Tour offers an engaging way to explore Turkey’s first Ottoman capital, just a day trip from Istanbul. Priced at $79 per person, this 12-hour journey takes you through Bursa’s highlights, including its famous Green Mosque, Green Mausoleum, and a cable car ride up Mount Uludağ. The tour is ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, and nature, with plenty of shopping opportunities along the way.

While the tour covers many attractions, it does involve a long day with some waiting periods, and the price can vary depending on booking sources. The tour includes transportation, guide services in English or Arabic, and lunch, making it a convenient option for those looking to experience Bursa without the hassle of planning every detail.

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Key Points

• Price: $79 per person, including transportation and lunch
• Duration: 12 hours, departing from Istanbul around 8:00 AM
• Highlights: Green Mosque, Green Mausoleum, Mount Uludağ cable car, Silk Market
• Transport: Air-conditioned bus with ferry crossings and teleferic fee included
• Guides: Available in English and Arabic
• Additional options: ATV or snow motorbike rides at the activity center (extra charge)

Starting Point and Travel Logistics in Istanbul

The tour begins in central Istanbul, with free pick-up from most hotel locations within the city. Pickup times are typically between 07:30 and 08:30, depending on your hotel’s location, and the shuttle ride to the port takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Passengers are advised to provide their hotel name during booking and to call the local provider afterward for confirmation of exact pickup times.

The journey to Bursa includes a ferry crossing over the Sea of Marmara, offering a scenic start to the day’s adventures. This crossing helps connect Istanbul to Yalova, from where the bus continues toward Bursa, making for a smooth and relaxed transfer.

Visiting Bursa: The First Ottoman Capital and Its Green Spaces

Arriving in Bursa around noon, the tour offers a short break for personal needs, giving travelers a chance to stretch or grab a quick snack. The city is renowned for its lush parks and green spaces, which have earned it the nickname “Green Bursa”.

The sightseeing includes visiting the Green Mosque, famous for its Iznik tiles, and the Green Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed I. Both sites provide insight into Bursa’s Ottoman architectural style and religious history. The tour also includes a visit to the Historical Silk Market, where bargaining for local handmade products and Turkish Delight adds a lively shopping element.

Mount Uludağ: Cable Car Ride and Mountain Discoveries

One of the standout features of this tour is the cable car (teleferic) ride to Uludağ Mountain. This scenic teleferic takes you up the mountain’s slopes, revealing panoramic views of Bursa and its surrounding forests.

If the weather does not permit the cable car operation, the tour team will substitute with a drive up the mountain by minibus to ensure you still experience the mountain’s ambiance. At the summit or mountain base, a barbeque lunch is served at a mountain restaurant, offering a taste of local cuisine amidst the natural setting.

After lunch, the tour provides free time for exploring the flora and fauna of the Ulungöl National Park area. This segment is perfect for those who want to enjoy the mountain’s peaceful environment and take photos of the stunning landscape.

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Exploring Bursa’s Historical Landmarks and Local Crafts

Post-lunch, the itinerary includes a visit to the 600-year-old Plane Tree at Nakiya village, a popular spot for a tea break and some leisure time. The tree is a historic natural landmark, offering a quiet moment in the midst of a busy sightseeing day.

On the way back, the tour makes shopping stops, giving travelers the opportunity to purchase local handmade products and Turkish delights. These shopping opportunities are convenient and help support Bursa’s artisans, although some may find the timing limited after a long day of touring.

The Transportation and Tour Structure

The entire trip combines various modes of transportation, including air-conditioned buses, ferry crossings, and mountain cable cars. The tour’s pacing is designed to fit many attractions within a 12-hour window, but reviews note that some parts could feel rushed or involve waiting, as the schedule is quite full.

Guides are available in English and Arabic, and they generally provide informative commentary about Bursa’s history, architecture, and natural environment. However, the long duration and some downtime mean travelers should prepare for a day with periods of waiting and some walking.

Optional Activities and Additional Costs

Along With the main itinerary, the Activity Center offers ATV rides or snow motorbikes, which are available at extra cost. These activities provide an extra adventure element for those interested in outdoor thrill rides, though they are not included in the base tour price.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the tour involves a full day of activity, comfortable footwear and clothing suitable for the weather are recommended. Travelers should remember to bring their passport or ID card for identification during the trip.

Smoking is not allowed during the tour, and it’s advisable to confirm the pickup time with the local supplier after booking. The tour requires a minimum of 6 guests to operate, so it might be canceled if the group is too small.

The Experience from a Review Perspective

This tour features a knowledgeable guide who provides lots of information, which enhances the overall experience. The stops at key sites like the Green Mosque and Mount Uludağ are highlights. However, some reviews mention that the long day can involve downtime and waiting, which could be tiring.

Pricing discrepancies are noted, with some guests paying significantly less for similar tours elsewhere, which is worth considering when evaluating value. Weather conditions can also impact the experience, especially regarding the cable car ride.

Final Thoughts on the Bursa Full Day Tour from Istanbul

This full-day trip to Bursa offers a manageable way to see Turkey’s first Ottoman capital, combined with scenic mountain views and cultural sites. The inclusion of ferry crossings, guided commentary, and lunch makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a rundown in a single day.

However, those seeking a more relaxed pace or a deep dive into each site might find the schedule a little rushed. The guided experience and shopping stops are good value, but be prepared for a long day with some waiting. This tour is best suited for curious visitors interested in history, nature, and local crafts who don’t mind the pace and are comfortable with group travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
Yes, free pick-up and drop-off are included from central Istanbul hotels.

How long does the ferry crossing take?
The ferry ride from Istanbul to Yalova takes about 45 to 60 minutes.

Is the cable car ride guaranteed?
The cable car is included in the fee, but its operation depends on weather conditions. If it is not operational, the guide will arrange an alternative activity.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. Smoking is not allowed during the tour.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a barbeque lunch is included at the mountain.

Can I participate in optional activities?
Yes, ATV or snow motorbike rides are available at the additional cost at the activity center.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the long duration and walking involved suggest it is better suited for older children and adults.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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