Bursa Day Trip from Istanbul

Travel from Istanbul to the historic city of Bursa with this full-day tour that covers key landmarks, a scenic cable car ride, and a local lunch. Priced at $43.88 per person, this 12-hour experience offers a convenient way to explore Bursa’s rich heritage, with hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and admission to key attractions included.

The tour is well-suited for those interested in history, architecture, and nature, with the highlight being a cable car ride up Mount Olympos that provides stunning views of the city. While the itinerary offers a rundown of Bursa, some reviews note that the long travel hours and crowded bus conditions may not appeal to everyone. Still, if you’re eager to see Bursa’s famous mosques, tombs, and mountain scenery, this tour delivers a practical and accessible option.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day trip combining Istanbul and Bursa with hotel transfers included
• Visit iconic sites like the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum with local guide explanations
• Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to Mount Olympos, with admission included
• Sample authentic Turkish cuisine during a lunch break at Uludag Mountain
• Includes ferry crossing over the Marmara Sea for added scenic views
• Tour duration is approximately 12 hours, with some reviews noting the long travel time

From Istanbul to Bursa: Ferry Crossing Over the Marmara Sea

The journey begins in Istanbul with a hotel pickup and a drive to a local harbor. Here, a ferry ride takes travelers across the Marmara Sea, offering impressive sights of the Bosporus, bridges, and the city skyline. The ferry portion lasts about 2 hours and provides a relaxing start to the day, with views that many find photo-worthy.

This part of the trip is particularly noteworthy because it combines transportation with sightseeing, allowing travelers to enjoy scenic panoramas as they transition from Europe to Asia. The ferry is free, but the experience enriches the overall journey by breaking up the long drive.

Arriving in Bursa: Exploring the Historic Old Town

Once in Bursa, the bus makes a stop at a Turkish delight shop, perfect for indulging in this famous sweet treat. Visitors have the chance to pick up authentic turkish delights as souvenirs or gifts, making this stop more than just a quick taste.

Following this, the tour heads to the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii), one of Bursa’s most important religious sites. The mosque’s interior is decorated with green tiles, and it includes a library and tombs, contributing to Bursa’s Islamic architectural heritage. The guide provides insights into its design and historical significance, making the visit both visually and educationally rewarding.

Highlight: The Cable Car Ride Up Mount Olympos

One of the major draws of this tour is the cable car ride to Mount Olympos, which lasts around 30 minutes. Unlike shorter chairlift options, this tour’s cable car ride offers a genuine mountain experience in a cabinet—not just a quick lift.

This ride presents breathtaking views of Bursa and the surrounding landscape. Travelers often find the climb up the mountain to be a highlight, as it provides a panoramic perspective of the city and the lush natural scenery. After arriving, the group visits a 600-year-old plane tree before heading to a local restaurant for lunch.

Uludag Mountain: Lunch, Free Time, and Scenic Views

The lunch spot on Uludag Mountain offers a delicious meal in a peaceful setting, giving travelers a chance to relax amid mountain scenery. Afterward, there’s free time to explore the area, whether to enjoy the fresh air or capture photos of the surrounding nature.

This part of the tour emphasizes the natural beauty of Bursa’s highlands, with opportunities to enjoy the cooler mountain climate and scenic vistas. The free time is flexible, letting visitors customize their experience—though some reviews suggest the overall time here could feel rushed.

Visiting Bursa’s Green Mosque and Tombs

Back in Bursa city center, the tour visits the Green Mosque—a highlight for its intricate tile work and spacious interior. The mosque’s architecture and decoration showcase Ottoman design at its finest, and the tombs of notable figures are located on-site.

The library within the mosque complex adds to the cultural experience, allowing visitors to appreciate Bursa’s religious and architectural history in one cohesive site. The admission is included, making it easy to explore without extra costs.

Return Journey: From Bursa to Istanbul

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour departs Bursa and retraces the route back to Istanbul. The return journey takes approximately 2 hours, following the same route over the ferry and highway. The bus ride can be lengthy, with some reviews indicating the long hours of travel and crowded bus conditions.

The tour concludes with hotel drop-off in Istanbul, typically during the night, allowing travelers to rest after a day of exploration.

Practical Tips and Considerations for Bursa Day Trip

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. The air-conditioned vehicle helps mitigate the long travel hours, although some guests note that the bus seats can be tight, and the air conditioning may not be powerful enough for very hot days.

The cable car ride is included, providing a genuine mountain experience, but travelers should be prepared for potential crowds and longer wait times during peak hours. The lunch is a highlight, offering authentic Turkish cuisine, though exact menu details are not specified.

Given the duration of approximately 12 hours, this trip suits those comfortable with long days of travel. It offers value for the price, especially with admission fees and transportation included, but some reviews caution about overly commercial stops and long bus rides.

Final Thoughts on the Bursa Day Trip from Istanbul

This tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of Bursa’s highlights, including historic mosques, scenic mountain views, and a ferry crossing. The scenic cable car ride up Mount Olympos is a standout feature, offering memorable vistas and a real mountain experience.

While the long hours and crowded bus conditions may not appeal to everyone, the inclusion of local guides, authentic food, and admission to key sites make this a practical option for visitors eager to see Bursa in a day. It’s especially suitable for those with an interest in architecture, history, and mountain scenery.

Travelers should prepare for long travel times and consider their comfort with bus journeys, but overall the tour balances value, convenience, and iconic sights well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour generally suits most travelers, but those with mobility issues or difficulty with long bus rides should consider their comfort levels, as the journey is approximately 12 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a ferry ride, cable car admission, local guide, and lunch. Food and drinks outside the provided meal are not included.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car ride lasts about 30 minutes and offers spectacular views of Bursa and Mount Olympos.

Are there any extra costs not mentioned?
Some stops, like ATV rides or shopping, may have extra costs. Additional activities are optional and not included in the tour price.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for mountain weather, and layers are recommended. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and camera for photos, especially during the cable car and mountain stops.