Full Day Guided Tour to Bursa and Uludag

Discover the Full-Day Guided Tour to Bursa and Uludag from Istanbul

For those seeking a day full of scenic views, cultural insights, and outdoor adventures, the Full Day Guided Tour to Bursa and Uludag offers a comprehensive experience. Priced at $90 per person, this 11 to 14-hour journey departs early from Istanbul, with a pickup service included, making logistics smooth and hassle-free. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its booking pattern—most travelers reserve their spot about 116 days in advance.

This tour brings together history, nature, and leisure activities at a relaxed pace suitable for most travelers. Visitors get a chance to explore Bursa, the “Green City” and former Ottoman capital, then venture into Uludag Mountain for breathtaking mountain views, a cable car ride, and a hearty barbecue lunch. The option to add activities like skiing or quad biking adds extra excitement to the day.

While the tour covers a lot of ground, it maintains a well-organized schedule that balances sightseeing with free time, allowing visitors to savor each experience. The overall customer rating of 5.0 based on 4 reviews indicates high satisfaction, especially for the scenic views and the knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Istanbul to Bursa and Uludag lasting approximately 11-14 hours
• Price of $90 includes hotel pickup, ferry transfer, entrance fees, cable car ride, and lunch
• Visit Bursa’s Ottoman relics, Turkish delight factory, and honey shop
• Drive to Uludag Mountain for panoramic views, a **cable car ride, and optional activities like skiing and quad biking
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100 and good weather requirement
• Highly praised for the scenic views, friendly guides, and well-organized itinerary

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup and Scenic Ferry Ride

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am with a hotel pickup in Istanbul, ensuring a comfortable start. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, the journey begins with a ferry transfer over Izmit Bay, offering travelers their first taste of the scenic beauty ahead. The ferry ride provides a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views, setting the tone for the day.

The first stop in Bursa is the Turkish delight factory, where visitors see how this sweet treat is made and can browse for souvenirs. Next, the tour visits a honey shop for tastings and to learn about local honey varieties. These stops are quick yet meaningful, giving a glimpse into local culinary traditions.

Exploring Bursa’s Ottoman Heritage and Natural Sites

Bursa, a city rich in Ottoman history, is the first major destination. The tour includes a visit to nkaya Historical Plane Tree, which has stood for over 610 years, marking it as a natural marvel. The guide shares insights into Bursa’s significance as an early Ottoman capital and its many relics.

Travelers have time to wander and take photographs before heading toward Uludag Mountain. The scenic drive offers glimpses of lush greenery and mountain vistas, making it clear why Bursa is called the “Green City.” The tour provides ample time for visitors to enjoy the natural scenery and cultural sites.

Uludag Mountain: Cable Car, Snowfall, and Scenic Views

The highlight of the trip is reaching Uludag Mountain, where visitors get to experience a stunning view from the top. The cable car ride down the mountain is a standout feature praised for its smoothness and panoramic vistas. It offers a bird’s-eye perspective of the surrounding peaks and forests.

During winter months, the opportunity to see snowfall and experience snow-covered landscapes makes Uludag particularly enchanting. For those interested in outdoor activities, the tour allows about 30 minutes of free time for skiing, depending on the weather and snow conditions. The mountain’s summit and cable car rides are consistently highlighted as memorable moments.

Delicious Barbecue Lunch with Mountain Views

A barbecue lunch is served in a picturesque valley after descending from the mountain. The lunch provides a satisfying break and a chance to relax while enjoying mountain scenery. The meal is included in the tour price, contributing to the overall value and convenience.

Optional Activities: Quad Biking and More

For travelers craving additional adventure, the tour offers the option to add an ATV quad bike ride or engage in other outdoor pursuits. Details about these extras are flexible, allowing visitors to customize their experience based on their interests and weather conditions.

Comfortable Transportation and Guided Support

Throughout the day, visitors travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with the support of an English-speaking guide. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach are often praised, helping make the day more engaging and informative. The group size is limited to 100 people, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere.

The tour concludes with a cable car ride back down Uludag, then some free time for shopping or further exploration before returning to Istanbul. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed yet enriching, with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This makes it easier to plan, especially for travelers with unpredictable schedules or weather concerns. If the weather conditions are poor, the tour provider offers alternative dates or full refunds.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits history buffs, outdoor lovers, and those wanting a scenic escape from Istanbul. The mix of cultural sites, mountain views, and optional snow activities appeals broadly, while the included amenities make it a practical choice for a full day trip. The well-organized schedule and friendly guides ensure a smooth experience, even for first-time visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Bursa and Uludag Full-Day Tour

With a high rating and positive reviews, this tour offers a compelling combination of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and outdoor activities. The $90 price covers all major expenses, making it an economical way to explore Bursa and Uludag Mountain without the hassle of planning transportation or meals.

While the tour is quite full, the pacing allows visitors to enjoy each stop comfortably. The cable car rides, scenic views, and authentic local treats like Turkish delight and honey are authentic highlights. Most travelers find the experience well-organized, enjoyable, and worth the early start.

This tour is especially recommended for adventurous travelers and history enthusiasts eager to see a different side of Turkey beyond Istanbul’s city streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 11 to 14 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price of $90 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ferry transfer, entrance fees, cable car rides, and lunch.

Can I add activities like skiing or quad biking?
Yes, skiing is available for about 30 minutes of free time, and an ATV quad bike option can be added for extra excitement.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the physical activity involved may be more suitable for those comfortable with outdoor walking and mountain environments.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 116 days in advance, especially during peak seasons or winter months for snow.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds offered if canceled early.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, air-conditioned transportation is included throughout the day.

What is the meeting point or start time?
The tour departs at 8:30 am with a hotel pickup in Istanbul.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses are not included and are payable separately if desired.

How do the reviews describe the experience?
Reviews consistently highlight beautiful views, friendly guides, and well-organized logistics, with many emphasizing the cable car ride and snowfall experience as particular highlights.