Green Bursa and Uluda Tour from Istanbul

Explore Bursa and Uludağ on a Full-Day Tour from Istanbul

This full-day tour from Istanbul to Bursa offers a satisfying blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and mountain adventures for just $46.26 per person. Starting early with hotel pickup between 08:00 and 08:30 am, the tour covers approximately 10 hours of sightseeing, with a carefully planned itinerary that includes the famous Uludağ Mountain, the Green Mosque, and the Green Mausoleum. Known for its lush landscapes and vibrant city life, Bursa is the ideal escape from Istanbul’s hustle, especially during summer months when mountain breezes bring welcome relief.

The tour is designed to be accessible and engaging for most travelers. It includes comfortable transportation, a professional guide, a lunch with a soft drink, and entrance fees to major sites like the cable car. While the tour features a busy schedule with many stops, it balances sightseeing with free time, such as the chance to enjoy panoramic views from Uludağ’s highest peaks. The consistent praise from visitors highlights its value for money and the knowledgeable guides who bring Bursa’s history and scenery to life.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day excursion from Istanbul with $46.26 per person
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off and luxury transportation
• Visits Uludağ Mountain, Green Mosque, and Green Mausoleum
• Cable car rides and lunch at Uludağ with traditional Turkish dishes
• Stops at historic Inkaya Tree and Turkish sweet factories
• Tour is suitable for most travelers thanks to its easy pace and ample free time

Convenient Pickup and Comfortable Transport from Istanbul to Bursa

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Istanbul, making the journey seamless from your accommodation. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort throughout the approximately 2-hour drive to Bursa, passing over the iconic Bosphorus Bridge which offers a stunning view of the Europe-Asia divide. The group size is capped at 27 travelers, promoting a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention from the professional guide.

Once onboard, the journey is relaxed, with the guide providing commentary on the history and geography of the region. This setup makes the transition from Istanbul’s busy streets to Bursa’s scenic landscapes smooth and stress-free, ideal for those who prefer a well-organized day trip.

Visiting the 600-Year-Old Inkaya Tree: Bursa’s Natural Landmark

The first stop is the Inkaya Tarihi Cinar, a 600-year-old historic tree that serves as a symbol of Bursa’s long-standing natural heritage. This free attraction allows visitors a quick but memorable photo opportunity amid the sprawling branches of this ancient tree. Its significance as a cultural icon makes it a meaningful start to the day’s exploration.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time for photos and a quick walk around the area. Since it’s free to visit, it’s an easy addition that enriches the overall experience, offering a glimpse into Bursa’s natural history before heading up Uludağ.

Uludağ Mountain: Turkey’s Premier Winter Sports Center

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Uludağ National Park, renowned today as Snow Paradise. The journey includes a drive up the mountain, with a stop at a panoramic view restaurant to enjoy a mixed grill lunch with stunning mountain vistas. This meal provides a taste of local Turkish cuisine amidst the natural beauty.

At the top of Uludağ, visitors have free time to explore or take a chairlift to the mountain’s highest point, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The cable car ride back down to Bursa completes this mountain adventure, with entrance fees included. The free time at the peak is perfect for photo enthusiasts and those wanting to breathe in fresh mountain air, making it a memorable part of the trip.

Discovering the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum

Back in Bursa, the tour visits the Green Mosque (Yeil Camii), a historic mosque famous for its green and blue interior tile decorations. Located in the heart of the old city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site exemplifies Ottoman architecture and spiritual elegance. The one-hour visit allows visitors to admire the intricate tile work and reflect on Bursa’s religious heritage.

Adjacent to the mosque, the Green Mausoleum holds the tomb of Sultan Mehmed I. This Ottoman monument showcases beautiful architectural details and offers insight into Bursa’s importance during the Ottoman period. Both sites are free to explore and provide a peaceful pause amidst the tour’s more active segments.

The Charm of Bursa’s Historic Markets and Turkish Sweets

During the day, stops at local markets and Turkish sweet factories add flavor to the experience. Visitors are encouraged to sample Turkish delight, honey, and jam—products with a long tradition in Bursa’s silk industry. These stops are short but sweet, giving travelers a chance to buy souvenirs and enjoy regional delicacies.

The Grand Covered Bazaar (Koza Han) is included as part of the overall sightseeing, known for its vibrant shops selling scarves, accessories, and silk products. These shopping opportunities highlight Bursa’s reputation as a historic silk hub, making it a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.

Returning to Istanbul with a Full Day of Experiences

The tour wraps up with a return drive to Istanbul, arriving back at your hotel after approximately 2 hours. The drop-off is arranged at the same meeting point, ensuring convenience at the end of a full day. The well-organized schedule and professional guidance have garnered consistent positive feedback, emphasizing ease of travel and enriching sightseeing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This day trip suits travelers looking for a comprehensive, affordable way to explore Bursa’s top sights from Istanbul. It is especially appealing for those interested in mountain scenery, Ottoman architecture, and Turkish culture. The tour’s moderate pace and free time at Uludağ make it accessible for most fitness levels, but travelers should be prepared for potential cold weather on the mountain.

While the schedule is busy, it offers a good balance of guided visits and free exploration. Those seeking a luxury or private experience might find this tour more laid-back, but the value and convenience gain high marks from past participants.

The Sum Up: A Reliable and Rewarding Day Trip from Istanbul to Bursa

This Green Bursa and Uludağ Tour from Istanbul provides a well-rounded experience of history, nature, and local culture for a competitive price. The inclusive package—covering transportation, guide, lunch, and entrance fees—ensures a smooth day of sightseeing.

The highlight is the Uludağ mountain excursion, with spectacular views and free time to enjoy the snow or take the chairlift. The historic sites like the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum add depth, while the stops at traditional markets enrich the cultural experience.

Perfect for those wanting a full day of exploration without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves, this tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors to Bursa or those craving a nature-filled escape during summer months. Just remember to dress warmly for the mountain and enjoy a day packed with scenery, history, and local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 14 days in advance, ensuring availability for the full-day experience.

What is included in the price?
The $46.26 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, lunch with a soft drink, and all entrance fees to sites like the cable car.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking around sites and taking a cable car and chairlift, so travelers should be comfortable with moderate activity and dress warmly for Uludağ.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothes for the mountain, and some cash or cards for souvenirs or additional snacks at markets.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.