Daily Green Bursa Tour From Istanbul

Explore Bursa’s Highlights on a Day Trip from Istanbul

The Daily Green Bursa Tour from Istanbul offers a compelling way to experience one of Turkey’s most historic cities in a single day. Priced at $68.65 per person, this tour spans approximately 14 hours and includes a ferry ride, visits to iconic sites like the Green Mosque and Green Tomb, and a scenic cable car ascent of Mt. Uludag. The tour is designed for those who want an overview of Bursa’s cultural treasures without overnight stays, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.

The tour starts early at 8:30 am and involves pickup from your Istanbul hotel, providing convenience and ease of access. While the experience features highlights such as the silk market and covered bazaar, potential travelers should be aware of mixed reviews regarding timing and the depth of sightseeing. This tour offers an accessible way to see Bursa’s key sights, though it may feel rushed or somewhat commercial at times.

Key Points

• Includes a ferry ride from Istanbul to Bursa, offering scenic views during the journey.
• Visits the Green Mosque and Green Tomb, with admission tickets included.
• Ascends Mt. Uludag via cable car for impressive panoramic views.
• Tour duration is around 14 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Local lunch and transportation are included, but drinks are not.
• Group size is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring manageable sightseeing.

Ferry Ride from Istanbul to Bursa Sets the Scene

The day begins with a two-hour ferry trip across the Sea of Marmara, which provides travelers with a chance to enjoy water views and a relaxing start to the day. The ferry is part of the experience, connecting Istanbul to Bursa in a scenic, enjoyable way. The journey helps build anticipation for the sights ahead and separates this tour from bus-only trips.

Once in Bursa, the group is transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to the first stop. This setup allows for a comfortable transfer despite the long overall duration. The ferry ride is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy traveling on the water, and it offers a different perspective of Istanbul’s skyline and coast.

Visiting the Historic Green Mosque and Green Tomb

The Green Mosque, built in 1424, is a prominent highlight, known historically as the largest complex of its time. The tour allocates 20 minutes for exploring this architectural marvel, with admission tickets included in the package. Visitors can appreciate the mosque’s intricate tile work and historical significance as a major Ottoman monument.

Next, travelers visit the Green Tomb, the mausoleum of Ottoman Sultan Mehmet Celebi. This site receives about 15 minutes for viewing, and admission is free. It provides insight into Bursa’s Ottoman past and the importance of these monuments within the city’s landscape. These stops are generally regarded as meaningful, although some reviews suggest that time may feel limited for thorough exploration.

Ascending Mt. Uludag by Cable Car for Scenic Views

A key attraction of this tour is the cable car ride up Mt. Uludag, known historically as Mt. Olympus. The 10-minute cable car journey is included in the tour, and it offers an opportunity to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Bursa and the surrounding landscape.

The ascent provides a chance to see the lush scenery from above and imagine the mountain’s role in the region’s history and climate. It’s a favorite feature, especially appreciated by those who enjoy outdoor scenery and fresh mountain air. The cable car ride is usually smooth, and the views are a highlight despite the limited time at the summit.

Uludag National Park and Free Time at the Mountain

The Uludag National Park stop lasts about 2 hours, giving travelers some time to soak in nature and appreciate the mountain environment. The visit is free of additional charges, allowing for flexible exploration. Some may choose to take photos, walk around, or simply relax amidst the natural beauty.

However, some reviews note that the timing can be tight, with limited opportunity for in-depth sightseeing or activities at the park. Still, this stop offers a refreshing break from urban sightseeing and a taste of Bursa’s natural scenery.

Visiting Bursa’s Silk Market and Covered Bazaar

Although the tour mentions a visit to a silk market and covered bazaar, some reviews suggest that the actual visit may be brief or not as extensive as expected. One reviewer notes that the tour arrived at the upper part of Uludag around 5:30 pm and did not include detailed visits to the bustling bazaars or the Green Mosque, indicating possible scheduling constraints.

These markets are typical spots for browsing local textiles, souvenirs, and experiencing Bursa’s trading atmosphere. While included in the itinerary, the time allocated might be limited, and expectations should be adjusted accordingly.

Practical Details: Pickup, Duration, and Group Size

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward for most travelers staying in Istanbul. With a maximum group size of 25 travelers, the experience remains relatively intimate, allowing for easier interaction with guides and fellow participants.

The 14-hour duration is substantial, and the schedule involves some long stretches of travel and sightseeing. Travelers should be prepared for a full day, with the possibility of feeling tired due to the timing and pace. The tour’s mobile ticket system and inclusion of local taxes add convenience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, lunch, local taxes, and an Arabic-speaking guide. Admission tickets for the Green Mosque and the cable car are also covered, simplifying logistics for participants.

However, drinks are not included, so travelers should bring water or purchase beverages during the day. The focus is on sightseeing and cultural highlights, but some may find the time limited to fully appreciate each site.

The Reality Behind the Reviews

While the tour offers many of Bursa’s top attractions, reviews reveal mixed experiences. Some mention long pickup times—around 2 hours—which can be tiring before the sightseeing begins. Others highlight that the tour did not visit certain sites like the tombs or bazaars in depth, or arrived late at Uludag, around 5:30 pm.

Negative reviews point out that the tour can feel “overly commercial” or rushed, with some stops seeming superficial. Conversely, positive comments praise the spectacular views, fabulous lunch, and informative guide. It’s clear that the experience can vary depending on expectations and pacing.

Who Should Consider This Bursa Day Trip?

This tour suits travelers eager to see Bursa’s main sights in one day and enjoy a scenic cable car ride. It’s ideal for those who prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience with hotel pickup and drop-off. However, individuals looking for in-depth exploration of every site or a leisurely pace might feel disappointed, given the tight schedule and some site visits being brief.

It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors to Bursa or those with limited time, as it captures the highlights efficiently. But, anyone deeply interested in Ottoman history or local markets should plan for additional visits or longer stays.

The Sum Up: A Scenic, Convenient Day Trip with Some Limitations

The Daily Green Bursa Tour from Istanbul offers a practical way to glimpse Bursa’s history, architecture, and natural beauty within a single long day. The ferry ride, visits to the Green Mosque and Green Tomb, and the cable car ascent of Mt. Uludag are standout features that many will appreciate.

Nevertheless, potential downsides include long pickup times, quick site visits, and some reviews indicating that the experience might feel rushed or somewhat commercial. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

Overall, with included transportation, a scenic ferry ride, and a local guide, this trip provides good value for those eager to see Bursa’s essential sights in a day, but manageable expectations are key to enjoying the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am with hotel pickup, so travelers should be ready by then.

Is the ferry ride included?
Yes, the two-hour ferry trip from Istanbul to Bursa is part of the tour experience.

What sites are visited during the trip?
The tour includes the Green Mosque, Green Tomb, Uludag National Park, and a cable car ride up Mt. Uludag.

Are meals included?
A lunch is included in the tour, but drinks are not.

How long is the total tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 14 hours.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, ensuring a manageable experience.