From Istanbul: Bursa Day Trip with Lunch and Transfers

Explore Bursa, the First Ottoman Capital, on a Day Trip from Istanbul

For those eager to uncover Turkey’s historical roots while enjoying scenic mountain views, the From Istanbul: Bursa Day Trip with Lunch and Transfers offers a practical and affordable way to do so. At $24 per person, this full-day excursion takes you from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the charming city of Bursa, the original Ottoman capital. The trip lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a long but rewarding adventure suitable for travelers interested in history, nature, and local delights.

This tour stands out for including round-trip transportation, a lunch at a local restaurant, and a cable car ride to Uludag Mountain’s summit. While the tour covers many highlights, it also involves some walking and optional activities like quad riding and skiing, which are not included in the base price. The guide provides clear explanations in English or Arabic, ensuring a smooth experience. However, travelers should be aware that cable car tickets and ski gear are extra, and weather conditions can affect certain activities like the cable car ride.

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Key Points

• Affordable price of $24 includes transportation, guide, and lunch.
• Duration is around 12 hours, with hotel pickup from key locations in Istanbul.
• Highlights include visiting the Green Mosque, Uludag Mountain, and a Turkish delight factory.
• Optional activities like quad riding and skiing are available but not included.
• Tour involves moderate walking and some waiting time during stops.
• The cable car ride offers panoramic views but is weather-dependent.

Starting the Day with Convenient Istanbul Hotel Pickup

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from central locations in Istanbul, including areas like Sultanahmet, Taksim, and Laleli. The air-conditioned coach then transports guests for about 1.5 hours toward the historic city of Bursa. This smooth transfer ensures a comfortable start to the day, especially after an early morning collection.

Once in Bursa, the guide introduces travelers to the city’s rich Ottoman past through a short shopping stop of about 30 minutes. Here, visitors can browse local shops or pick up souvenirs before heading to Uludag Mountain, the highlight for many outdoor enthusiasts.

Visiting Bursa’s Iconic Green Mosque and Historical Sites

The Green Mosque, officially known as Yeşil Camii, is a major highlight in Bursa. The guide explains its stunning architecture and beautiful tile work, making it a must-see in the city. Entrance fees are included, allowing easy access to this significant religious monument.

Along With the mosque, the tour includes a visit to an uludağ Natural Honey Shop and a Turkish delight factory. These stops offer a chance to sample local honey and sweets, giving insight into traditional Turkish specialties. The Nkiya Historical Plane Tree, over 610 years old, is another stop that showcases Bursa’s natural heritage.

Uludag Mountain: Cable Car Rides and Mountain Activities

The trip to Uludag Mountain is a key part of this tour. Visitors enjoy a lunch break in a scenic valley, with the chance to try local dishes at a traditional restaurant. After lunch, there’s about 30 minutes of free time to ski or enjoy the mountain scenery.

The cable car ride to the summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cable car is weather-dependent, so if it’s unavailable due to weather, an alternative activity will be offered. The descent by cable car is a highlight, offering a relaxed way to take in Bursa’s natural beauty from above.

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Optional Adventures and Extra Costs

While quad riding is part of the initial activities, it is not included in the tour price. Travelers can choose to add an ATV quad safari for an extra fee. Similarly, ski equipment, jackets, and chair lifts are not included and need to be rented separately if desired. Drinks and personal expenses are also not covered in the package.

These optional activities allow for more active engagement but should be considered extra expenses. The tour’s focus remains on the historical and scenic sights, with optional adventure activities available for those interested.

The Scenic Ferry Ride Over Izmit Bay

An interesting feature of the tour is the ferry ride over Izmit Bay, which adds a maritime element to the journey. This crossing provides a relaxing break and scenic views of the waterway, blending land-based sightseeing with a quick water transit.

The ferry, included in the tour, helps break up the bus travel and offers a different perspective of the region. It’s a quiet moment amidst the sightseeing itinerary, appreciated for its calming scenery.

The Return Journey and Evening Arrival in Istanbul

After a full day of sightseeing, the bus heads back toward Istanbul. The return trip typically takes about 1.5 hours, with the group arriving back in the city in the evening. The tour concludes with a drop-off at the original pickup points, offering a convenient end to a busy day.

While the day can be long—gelling into the longest part of the experience as one review notes—most find the sights and activities worthwhile. The cost-effective price and packed schedule make this trip appealing to those looking to maximize their day.

Practical Information and Tips for Participants

Participants should wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a camera to capture the scenic views and historic sites. A bottle of water is recommended, especially during the warm months. Passport or ID is required for access to certain sites.

Since the cable car ride is weather-dependent, travelers should be prepared for possible changes in plans. The tour is not suitable for people with back problems or wheelchair users due to the walking involved.

The lunch provided is at a local restaurant and offers vegetarian options, ensuring dietary needs are considered. The small additional costs for activities like quad riding or ski gear should be kept in mind.

Who Will Appreciate This Bursa Day Trip?

This tour appeals most to history enthusiasts interested in the Ottoman Empire’s origins and nature lovers eager to see Uludag Mountain. The affordable price makes it accessible for budget travelers, and the inclusion of lunch and transportation adds convenience.

It’s a good choice for group travelers who enjoy guided excursions, as well as those wanting a comprehensive day out of Istanbul without the hassle of planning. However, long hours and walking mean it might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts on the Bursa Day Trip with Lunch and Transfers

This tour offers a solid introduction to Bursa’s history and natural beauty at an accessible price point. The highlight experiences like the Green Mosque, Uludag Mountain cable car, and local treats stand out as memorable moments. The inclusion of transport, guide, and lunch provides good value, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

While the day is long and packed, most participants find the sights and activities worthwhile. The weather-dependent cable car ride can be a limiting factor, but alternative options are available if needed. This tour is best suited for those eager to explore a historic Ottoman city and enjoy mountain scenery in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the trip from Istanbul to Bursa?
The journey by bus takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, making the total duration around 12 hours including stops.

What is included in the tour price?
The round-trip transportation, live guide in English or Arabic, ferry ride, entrance fee to the Green Mosque, and lunch with one soft drink are included.

Are activities like quad riding or skiing included?
No, activities such as quad riding and ski equipment are not included and are available at an extra cost if desired.

Is the cable car ride guaranteed?
The cable car is weather-dependent; if it’s unavailable due to bad weather, an alternative activity will be provided.

What clothing should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking involved. Light clothing for summer or layers for cooler months are advisable.

Can vegetarians participate in the lunch?
Yes, vegetarian meal options are available at the local restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for children or senior citizens?
It involves moderate walking and some waiting, so it is suitable for most but not recommended for people with back problems or wheelchair users.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a camera, water, comfortable shoes, and passport or ID for site access.

How late does the tour return to Istanbul?
Expect to arrive back in Istanbul in the evening, around 10 pm based on the longer day.

How do I book or cancel this tour?
Reservations can be made with flexibility, as you can reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

This Bursa day trip combines cultural discovery, natural beauty, and local flavors into an accessible, full-day experience. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a cost-effective way to explore Turkey’s early Ottoman history and mountain scenery in one go.

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