Full Day Guided Tour to Bursa and Uludag With Cable Car And Lunch

Explore Bursa and Uludag on a Full-Day Guided Tour from Istanbul

This full-day tour offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and local flavors. For $75 per person, travelers enjoy hotel pickup, a ferry transfer, cable car rides, and a lunch at Uludag Mountain. The tour lasts approximately 11 to 14 hours, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive day trip from Istanbul.

While the lunch venue has received some criticism for its quality, the overall experience is praised for its well-organized itinerary, pleasant guides, and the opportunity to explore both Bursa’s Ottoman relics and the scenic Uludag Mountain. This tour is perfect for history buffs, mountain lovers, or anyone eager to experience Turkey outside Istanbul.

Key Points

• Price of $75 per person includes transportation, cable car rides, lunch, and entrance fees.
• Duration ranges from 11 to 14 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Visit Bursa’s historic sites, including mausoleums of early Ottoman sultans and the Green Mosque.
• Enjoy Uludag Mountain’s natural beauty, with options like skiing and an ATV quad bike tour.
• Experience a scenic ferry ride over Izmit Bay and the visit to the 610-year-old Inkaya Plane Tree.
• Guided experience with an English-speaking guide, ensuring informative commentary throughout the day.

Starting the Day: Pickup and Early Travel from Istanbul

The tour begins early at 7:30 am, with hotel pickup arranged for convenience. After collecting all participants, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle transports the group toward northwest Turkey. Along the way, the tour features a ferry ride over Izmit Bay, offering travelers their first glimpse of Turkey’s diverse landscape.

This set-up helps maximize sightseeing time while maintaining a relaxed pace. The early start suits those eager to make the most of their day, though it requires an early wake-up in Istanbul.

Visiting Inkaya Cinari and the 610-Year-Old Plane Tree

The first stop is at Inkaya Cinari, where visitors can see the historic Inkaya Plane Tree, which is over 610 years old. This natural landmark provides an opportunity for photos and a moment of nature’s grandeur. The stop also includes a visit to a natural honey shop, where local honey is displayed, and a Turkish delight factory.

These stops highlight local craftsmanship and culinary traditions, giving insight into Turkey’s sweet and honey production. The free admission at these sites allows visitors to appreciate the natural and cultural elements without extra costs.

Discovering Bursa’s Ottoman Heritage

In Bursa, the tour visits the Green Mosque, a notable example of Ottoman architecture and ornamentation. Close by, the mausoleums of early Ottoman sultans offer a chance to uncover Turkey’s imperial past. The guide shares details about the significance of these sites, enriching the experience.

The visit to Bursa’s historic relics is complemented by free time to explore, take photos, or browse local markets. The architecture and ambiance provide a window into the Ottoman Empire’s early period, appealing to those interested in Turkey’s rich heritage.

Uludag Mountain: Scenic Cable Car Ride and Mountain Activities

A highlight of the tour is reaching Uludag Mountain, where cable car rides provide panoramic views of the lush landscape. Travelers have the option to ski for about 30 minutes or enjoy free time to explore the mountain scenery.

The Uludag Mountain House Gökçeören serves as a base for activities, and visitors can partake in additional options such as ATV quad biking or skiing (these extras usually require an additional fee). The mountain’s altitude and scenery make it a refreshing contrast to the city sights, drawing visitors who appreciate outdoor pursuits or scenic vistas.

Lunch at Uludag Mountain with a Mountain View

The tour includes a barbecue lunch at Uludag Mountain, providing a taste of Turkish cuisine amid mountain surroundings. While some feedback mentions the restaurant’s venue and food quality as disappointing, the inclusion of lunch is seen as a value addition for a full-day trip.

It’s advisable to manage expectations regarding the meal, but the setting itself offers a memorable backdrop for dining after mountain activities.

Exploring Bursa’s Cultural Landmarks: The Green Mosque and More

After lunch, the tour leads to the Green Mosque, a splendid example of Ottoman architecture famous for its tile work and historical significance. The site offers an authentic taste of Bursa’s spiritual and artistic history.

Along With the mosque, visitors get free time to browse local markets or enjoy the city atmosphere. The balance of guided visits and free exploration helps visitors absorb Bursa’s unique character at their own pace.

Practical Details: Transportation, Guides, and Group Size

Transportation is organized with air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort throughout the long day. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, who shares historical information and helps navigate the schedule efficiently.

The tour group is capped at 100 travelers, which maintains a lively yet manageable atmosphere. The pickup and drop-off service adds convenience, removing stress from travel planning, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

Considerations: Timing, Pacing, and Physical Demands

The tour spans roughly 11 to 14 hours, so it requires a reasonable level of physical activity, especially at stops like Uludag Mountain and the historic sites. The free time at various stops allows for some flexibility, but travelers should be prepared for a busy day.

The lunch venue has drawn some criticism for its food quality, so bringing snacks or requesting dietary accommodations might be helpful. Weather can also influence the experience, especially at mountain sites, so suitable clothing is recommended.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This guided trip suits those eager to see both natural and historical highlights of Bursa and Uludag in one day. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, mountain lovers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed way to explore outside Istanbul.

The experience offers good value, considering the transport, guiding, cable car rides, and sites included. However, those seeking gourmet meals or a more leisurely pace may find the lunch disappointing.

Final Thoughts on the Bursa and Uludag Tour

This full-day guided tour from Istanbul delivers a well-organized journey through Turkey’s scenic northwest. The combination of historic Bursa, scenic Uludag Mountain, and local culinary stops makes for a varied experience.

While the lunch may not satisfy all, the scenic cable car rides, Ottoman relics, and natural landmarks provide plenty of memorable moments. The tour’s cost-effectiveness and comprehensive itinerary make it suitable for those wanting an active, educational day trip.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to see a different facet of Turkey beyond Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation from Istanbul?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are there options for outdoor activities at Uludag Mountain?
Yes, travelers can ski for about 30 minutes or participate in ATV quad biking as additional activities, which may incur extra costs.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a barbecue lunch is included, served at Uludag Mountain. Some reviews mention the venue and food quality as disappointing.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 14 hours, starting at 7:30 am and ending in the evening.

What sites are visited in Bursa?
The tour visits the Green Mosque, the mausoleums of early Ottoman sultans, and the Inkaya Plane Tree with a natural honey shop and Turkish delight factory.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
While it involves some walking and outdoor activities, most participants with reasonable mobility should manage the schedule comfortably.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, depending on weather conditions.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Middle East Leisure Management LLC, who can be contacted at +971544733020 or via email at [email protected].

This guided trip offers an engaging way to discover Bursa and Uludag’s highlights, with the convenience of organized transportation and insightful guiding.