From Istanbul: Private Guided Tour to Bursa

Key Points

• Full-day private tour from Istanbul to Bursa costs $908 per group (up to 4 people) and lasts about 12 hours.
• Includes transportation, entrance fees, and an expert guide in both English and Arabic.
• Highlights include the Green Mosque, Green Mausoleum, covered bazaar, and Mount Uludağ via cable car or bus.
• The tour begins with a ferry across the Marmara Sea to Yalova, adding a scenic maritime experience.
• Lunch is included with a focus on Iskender kebabs and other local dishes, but drinks and personal expenses are not covered.
• This tour is ideal for those interested in Ottoman architecture, markets, and mountain views, with wheelchair accessibility and private group options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Bursa’s Ottoman Heritage on a Private Day Trip

This full-day private tour offers an immersive experience into Bursa, Turkey’s first Ottoman capital. Starting from Istanbul, the trip includes a ferry across the Marmara Sea, a comfortable bus transfer, and visits to historic sites and markets. Priced at $908 per group, the tour is designed for groups of up to four, making it both intimate and flexible.

Travel is led by a professional guide fluent in English and Arabic, ensuring engaging commentary throughout the day. The itinerary balances cultural exploration with scenic views, giving visitors a well-rounded taste of Bursa’s history and natural beauty.

Scenic Ferry Crossing from Istanbul to Yalova

The journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Istanbul, followed by a scenic drive to the harbor. From there, a ferry trip across the Marmara Sea provides vistas of Istanbul’s skyline and the sea’s expanse before arriving in Yalova.

This ferry ride adds a memorable maritime element to the day, offering a relaxing start and beautiful views. After docking in Yalova, travelers transfer by bus to Bursa, making the overall experience both comfortable and picturesque.

Visiting the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum

Once in Bursa, the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum take center stage as must-see Ottoman landmarks. The Green Mosque features impressive Ottoman architecture, with intricate tile work and a grand prayer hall. The Green Mausoleum is nearby, where the tomb of Sultan Mehmed I rests, enveloped in lush gardens.

These sites offer insight into Ottoman religious and architectural traditions. The expert guide explains their historical significance, making each visit both educational and visually captivating.

Traditional Lunch Featuring Iskender Kebabs

A highlight of the tour is the lunch stop at a local restaurant, where delicious Iskender kebabs are served alongside other regional dishes. This meal provides a flavorful break during the busy day of sightseeing, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine.

While lunch is included in the tour price, drinks and personal expenses are not covered, so travelers may want to bring some cash for additional beverages or souvenirs.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Bursa’s Covered Bazaar and Silk Markets

Post-lunch, the tour takes visitors through the famous covered bazaar and Silk Market, bustling hubs where vendors display a wide range of goods and souvenirs. These markets are perfect for browsing local crafts, textiles, and jewelry, offering plenty of opportunities to find unique gifts or mementos.

The guide leads you through these lively areas, providing context on the items on display and helping you navigate the busy market streets. It’s a chance to experience Bursa’s commercial life firsthand.

Climbing Mount Uludağ for Stunning Views

A notable feature of this tour is a trip up Mount Uludağ, either by cable car or bus, depending on weather conditions. The mountain is famous for its spectacular views, thermal baths, and as a ski resort.

The cable car ride offers breathtaking panoramas over lush forests and the surrounding landscape. The mountain’s vantage point is an ideal spot for photos and appreciating Bursa’s natural environment, adding a scenic dimension to the historical exploration.

Practical Logistics and Accessibility

The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a live guide, with pickup included from your Istanbul hotel. It is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. The group remains private, ensuring a personalized experience.

Starting times vary, so checking availability is essential. The tour operates with full flexibility on cancellation—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—and allows for reserve now, pay later options, providing peace of mind.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Compared to other Bursa day trips, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines historical sites, markets, and mountain views in one day. The inclusion of the ferry trip adds a scenic maritime element not always present in similar tours. The private group format ensures a more intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable professionals.

While the $908 price might seem higher than some options, it covers all transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide—value for those seeking a hassle-free, in-depth day in Bursa.

Final Thoughts on the From Istanbul: Private Guided Tour to Bursa

This experience offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and natural scenery for those interested in exploring Bursa beyond Istanbul. The full-day itinerary covers essential Ottoman landmarks, lively markets, and Mount Uludağ’s stunning vistas, all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance.

The ferry crossing adds a memorable maritime touch, and the local cuisine enhances the culture. Its private group format makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a personalized, hassle-free day trip.

The main consideration is the price—which reflects the full package—and the long duration of 12 hours. Travelers should be prepared for a busy, active day but will likely return with a wealth of sights, stories, and photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, entrance fees, and a live guide are included. Lunch is also covered, but drinks and personal expenses are not.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 12 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What language guides are available?
Guides speak English and Arabic, providing clear commentary throughout the day.

Does the tour include a visit to Mount Uludağ?
Yes, travelers can go up Mount Uludağ by cable car or bus, depending on the weather.

Is the ferry ride included?
Yes, the ferry trip across the Marmara Sea from Istanbul to Yalova is part of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch featuring Iskender kebabs and local dishes is part of the package.

What are the main highlights of the day?
Visits to the Green Mosque, Green Mausoleum, covered bazaar, Silk Market, and Mount Uludağ views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, some cash for personal expenses, and a camera for scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby