Bursa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Istanbul

Exploring Bursa from Istanbul: A Full-Day Dive into Turkey’s First Ottoman Capital

If you’re craving a day trip that combines history, nature, and shopping, the Bursa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Istanbul offers an appealing option. For around $79 per person, we spend approximately 12 hours exploring Turkey’s first Ottoman capital, discovering its lush parks, historic mosques, and lively markets. Our journey begins early, with pickup from central Istanbul hotels, and takes us across the Sea of Marmara via ferry, adding a dash of nautical adventure to the experience.

Two things stand out immediately: first, the chance to visit the Green Mosque and the Green Mausoleum, famed for their stunning Iznik tiles, which are truly Instagram-worthy. Second, the cable car ride up Mount Uludağ delivers sweeping views and a feeling of being in the mountains—especially enjoyable if the weather is clear. However, a potential downside is that the tour can be quite lengthy, with some reviews mentioning long waits and down time, which might test your patience after a long day.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, scenic vistas, and a bit of shopping. It’s especially good for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides—many reviewers highlight their guide’s ability to pack in information. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and enjoy guided group experiences, this could be a rewarding way to get a taste of Bursa’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation yourself.

Key Points

Historic and cultural highlights: Visit the Green Mosque and Mausoleum, renowned for their beautiful Iznik tiles.
Natural beauty and vistas: Ride the cable car up Mount Uludağ for panoramic mountain views.
Shopping: Explore the old Silk Market and buy local handmade products and Turkish Delight.
Convenience: Includes transportation, lunch, and ferry crossing, making it a hassle-free experience.
Long but rich day: Expect a packed schedule with some down time, as noted by previous travelers.
Guide quality: Guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, enhancing the experience.

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A Deep Dive into the Bursa Day Trip

Starting Early with Pickup and Transport
The tour kicks off around 8 a.m. with free pickup from centrally located Istanbul hotels. The ride to Bursa involves a ferry crossing of the Sea of Marmara—a scenic part of the journey that adds a maritime touch and offers lovely views of Istanbul’s skyline. This ferry ride, which is included, makes the transfer more enjoyable and breaks up what could otherwise be a long bus ride.

Arriving in Bursa: The Historic Heart
By noon, we arrive in Bursa, a city that bears the marks of its glorious Ottoman past. The tour offers a brief pause to stretch and grab some personal needs—this is a good moment to start soaking in the ambiance. The highlight here is the chance to visit the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum, both famous for the intricacy of their Iznik tiles. The mausoleum, in particular, is a peaceful spot to appreciate Ottoman architecture and craftsmanship.

Shopping in the Silk Market
Next, we explore Bursa’s historic Silk Market, a lively place where bargaining is encouraged. You’ll find handmade souvenirs, textiles, and Turkish delights—an excellent opportunity to pick up authentic gifts or treats for yourself. While the market is charming and offers a taste of local life, some travelers have expressed frustration over inconsistent prices or feeling that they paid more than necessary, as one review pointed out: “We found out that people on the same tour paid $33 and we paid $100 per person. Such a rip off.” This highlights the importance of bargaining and being aware of prices.

Mount Uludağ and the Cable Car
Perhaps the most memorable part of the tour is the teleferik (cable car) ride up Mount Uludağ, the mountain that dominates Bursa’s skyline. The cable car delivers stunning vistas over the surrounding forests and the city below. We loved the way the ride added a sense of adventure and connected us with nature. However, if weather conditions are poor, the cable car might be unavailable, in which case the bus will take you partway up the mountain instead.

A Mountain Lunch & Nature
A hot barbeque lunch is served at a mountain restaurant, giving us a taste of Turkish cuisine amidst scenic surroundings. After eating, there’s free time to explore the flora and fauna of the national park—an appreciated break from the busy sightseeing. As one traveler noted, this part of the tour allowed them to enjoy the mountain’s beauty and breathe in fresh air, a rare treat after a morning of cultural touring.

Visiting the Old Plane Tree & Tea Break
On the way back to Istanbul, we visit a 600-year-old plane tree in İnkaya—a striking sight and a popular photo spot. A quick tea break offers a moment of relaxation before heading home. The return journey includes some shopping opportunities, so you can pick up last-minute souvenirs, though be prepared for some long drive time.

Drop-off & Overall Duration
The day wraps up with hotel drop-offs in late evening. The tour is comprehensive but long, and some reviews mention that it’s a lot of hours for a single day. One traveler mentioned, “The tour could be done quicker, as it is a long day,” emphasizing that patience and comfort with group travel are important.

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What We Like About This Tour

One of the biggest perks is the guided experience. Many reviews praise guides for their knowledge, which makes touring more engaging and helps you understand the significance of each site. The inclusion of transportation, ferry crossing, and lunch makes for a smooth experience—no need to worry about logistics.

We also loved the combination of cultural sites and natural scenery. Visiting the Green Mosque and Mausoleum gave us insight into Ottoman artistry, while the cable car ride and mountain walk offered a refreshing escape into nature. For those who appreciate a mix of activities, this tour hits several marks.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

While the itinerary is packed, some travelers found the day a bit too lengthy and the stops too short. The reviews mention long waits and downtime, which can feel frustrating when you’re eager to explore more actively. Also, the price point may seem high compared to what some others pay for similar experiences, especially if you’re comfortable exploring independently; as one traveler put it, “we paid $100 and others paid $33,” indicating that the value may vary depending on how you approach the tour.

Weather can also impact the experience, particularly the cable car ride—if it’s foggy or windy, you might not get the stunning views you’re hoping for. It’s worth checking the forecast and being prepared for possible changes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for history enthusiasts interested in Ottoman architecture and culture, nature lovers wanting mountain vistas, and shoppers looking for authentic souvenirs. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy guided tours, as the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. If you’re comfortable with a full day of activity and don’t mind some long hours, this trip can provide a memorable overview of Bursa’s charm.

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Final Thoughts

This Bursa full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s first Ottoman capital, combining rich history, natural beauty, and local markets. The guided aspect enhances the experience, making sites more meaningful through expert commentary. While the long hours and some downtime might test your patience, the convenience of transportation and the scenic cable car ride are definite highlights.

For those seeking a structured, hassle-free introduction to Bursa without the need to navigate transport or language barriers, this tour provides solid value. Just remember to manage expectations about the pace and be ready for a full day of diverse activities. If you’re after an authentic experience that mixes culture, scenery, and shopping, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.

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FAQ About the Bursa Full Day Sightseeing Tour

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins around 08:00 with free pick-up from hotels in central Istanbul.

How do I know if the ferry crossing is included?
The ferry crossing from Istanbul to Bursa is part of the tour package, included in the price.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You will visit the Green Mosque, Green Mausoleum, the Silk Market, and Mount Uludağ via cable car, along with a mountain restaurant.

Is lunch included in the price?
Yes, a barbeque lunch at the mountain is included in the tour fee.

Can I buy souvenirs during the trip?
Yes, the Silk Market offers local handmade products and Turkish delights, and shopping is encouraged.

What happens if the cable car doesn’t operate?
If weather conditions prevent the cable car from running, the bus will take you partway up the mountain instead.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, returning to Istanbul late in the evening.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?
The tour involves some walking and a cable car ride, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, and dress comfortably for a full day of sightseeing and mountain weather.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether the Bursa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Istanbul fits your travel style, ensuring you get the most out of your Turkish adventure.