Bursa Tour from Istanbul Included Lunch & Cable Car

Bursa Tour from Istanbul Included Lunch & Cable Car: A Balanced Look at Turkey’s First Ottoman Capital

Starting early from Istanbul, this full-day tour whisks you across the Sea of Marmara to explore Bursa, Turkey’s first Ottoman capital. For around $58, you’ll enjoy an approximately 13-hour journey filled with historic sights, a scenic cable car ride up Uludag Mountain, and a traditional Turkish lunch. What makes this tour charming is its ability to combine history, nature, and local culture — perfect if you’re eager to see beyond Istanbul’s bustling streets.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the small group setting, which enhances intimacy and allows for more personalized attention, and the inclusive cable car ride—a highlight that many reviews praise for its stunning views. On the flip side, be aware that some travelers find the long bus hours and stops at shops less appealing, especially if you’re more about sightseeing than shopping.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive day trip with a mix of cultural landmarks, scenic rides, and local flavor. If you’re okay with a long day in transit and appreciate guided insights, this tour offers excellent value and a taste of authentic Bursa life.

Key Points

• Historic Landmarks: Visit the Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum, exemplifying Bursa’s Ottoman architecture.
• Scenic Cable Car Ride: Enjoy a real cable car up Uludag Mountain with panoramic views.
• Authentic Turkish Cuisine: Savor a barbeque lunch with drinks at a local restaurant.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles, including ferry or bridge crossings.
• Group Size & Guidance: Small groups (15-22 people) with knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.
• Multiple Languages: Tours are available in English and Arabic, catering to diverse visitors.

An In-Depth Look at the Bursa Day Trip

Starting the Day: From Istanbul to Bursa

The tour kicks off early around 8:30 am, with hotel pickups in Istanbul. The coach is air-conditioned, which is a boon given Turkey’s often warm weather — you’ll want to stay comfortable on this 2-hour journey to Pendik Port. We like that the trip includes a ferry or bridge crossing, adding a touch of variety to the transfer; it feels like a mini-adventure before Bursa even begins.

Your guide will be with you from the start, offering insights and answering questions. Several reviews mention guides like Jocob, who are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the long bus rides more bearable. However, keep in mind that the overall experience depends heavily on weather and group dynamics.

Crossing the Sea of Marmara and Entering Bursa

The 30-minute ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara is a highlight for many. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy views of Istanbul’s skyline, and get in the mood for exploring Bursa. Once ashore, the journey continues by minivan through a modern city that still retains echoes of its Ottoman past, with palaces, mosques, and traditional streets.

Some reviews note that the bus ride is long — over two hours — but this is part of the charm of a day trip that covers so much ground. The option to stop at a Turkish delight shop provides a sweet break and a chance to pick up some souvenirs. These stops tend to be popular, especially since Turkish delight is a famous treat.

Exploring Bursa: The Main Landmarks

The core of the tour involves visiting the Green Mosque (Yesil Cami) and the Green Mausoleum (Yesil Turbe). These are celebrated for their pristine architecture and beautiful interior tilework. Visitors often comment on their peaceful ambiance and stunning craftsmanship. One reviewer mentions, “you’ll see why these sites are celebrated for their architecture,” which rings true.

The tour then takes you to Cumalikizik Koyu, an Ottoman-era village where narrow alleys and old houses transport you back in time. No motor vehicles are allowed here, preserving the historic charm. Walking through the village, you’ll see traditional Ottoman civil architecture, providing excellent photo opportunities and a glimpse into daily life centuries ago.

Lunch and Uludag Mountain

A hearty Turkish lunch with soft drinks is included. Many travelers enjoy trying local kebabs and traditional fare, setting the tone for a day full of authentic flavors. Following lunch, you’ll head to the Uludag National Park for a cable car ride. This part is often the most exciting, with expansive views of Bursa and the surrounding mountains.

Here’s where the experience shines. The company emphasizes that they include a “REAL” cable car ride — about 30 minutes long — unlike some tours offering just a brief chairlift. Guests who get to take this ride frequently mention how breathtaking the scenery is, with far-reaching vistas and fresh mountain air. One reviewer called the ride “really exciting,” and many say it’s the highlight of their day.

However, a few reviews note that weather conditions — wind or wind-related safety concerns — may cancel the cable car. If this happens, you’ll need to adjust expectations, but the guide should provide alternative activities or viewpoints.

Return to Bursa and Final Stops

Back in the city, the tour visits the Green Tomb, where Sultan Mehmet I was laid to rest. The tomb’s architecture and interior work are often praised for their historical significance and aesthetic beauty.

The last stop takes you to Cumalikizik village again, offering a final chance to soak in Ottoman village life. It’s a quiet, picturesque area perfect for strolling, with no motor vehicles, offering a peaceful end to your busy day.

Finally, the return journey involves crossing the ferry back to Istanbul, with the tour wrapping up around 10 pm. The long day can feel tiring, but the scenic and cultural rewards often outweigh the hours spent on the bus.

What Do Travelers Say?

Reviews provide a balanced perspective. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, especially on the cable car and in Bursa city. For example, one mentions, “the guide was good, and the trip was excellent,” highlighting the value of having a helpful guide leading the way.

Others appreciate the value for money, noting that the tour covers many key sights, includes a delicious lunch, and offers a memorable cable car ride. One reviewer called it a “highly comprehensive trip,” and another said, “for the price you don’t want to miss it.”

Of course, some travelers found the long bus rides and frequent shop stops less appealing. Multiple reviews mention the stops at commercialized shops, feeling that it takes away from sightseeing. A few felt the tour was overly focused on shopping or felt the schedule was too lengthy for what was seen.

Weather-related cancellations of the cable car also appear in reviews, which can be disappointing, but guides generally manage expectations well.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Prepare for a long day: Expect to leave early and return late, with about 13 hours total.
• Dress comfortably: Layers help, especially if the mountain is cooler.
• Carry some cash: For souvenirs or extra snacks, as some stops may tempt you.
• Be aware of shop stops: If shopping isn’t your thing, arrive with a clear plan to maximize sightseeing.
• Weather can change quickly: The cable car ride depends on conditions; be flexible.
• Group size matters: Small groups (15-22 people) make for more personal experiences but expect some bus activity.
• Language options: Tours in English and Arabic accommodate diverse groups.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an immersive day that combines history, nature, and local flavors, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those eager to understand Ottoman heritage through visits to mosques and tombs, and who enjoy scenic mountain views via cable car.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace with fewer stops or dislike long bus rides, this might not be ideal. The tour does involve some commercial stops, so if shopping isn’t your thing, you may want to consider how much time you want to spend in those spots.

This tour offers great value for the price, especially given the included lunch and cable car ride, and the chance to explore Bursa’s most iconic sites in one day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making the start and end of your day more convenient.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara takes about 30 minutes, providing a relaxing break during the journey.

What type of cable car ride is included?
It’s a real cable car ride lasting approximately 30 minutes, offering panoramic views of Bursa and Uludag Mountain.

What if the cable car ride is canceled?
Weather conditions, especially wind, can cause cancellations. The tour guides usually provide alternatives, but be prepared for possible schedule adjustments.

Are there any shopping stops?
Yes, stops at Turkish delight shops and souvenir stores are common, though some feel they detract from sightseeing.

What is the main benefit of this tour?
The combination of historic sites, scenic cable car ride, and authentic local lunch provides a well-rounded day trip at a reasonable price.

Who should avoid this tour?
If you dislike long bus rides or prefer a more flexible, less scheduled experience, this might not be your best pick.

To sum it up, this Bursa day trip from Istanbul packs a lot into one long day — from exploring Ottoman architecture and savoring Turkish delights to enjoying mountain vistas from a cable car. It’s especially good for travelers who want a structured, guided experience with inclusions like lunch and transportation, and who don’t mind spending hours in transit. If you’re after a taste of Turkey’s historic and natural beauty without the hassle of planning, this tour offers solid value and memorable sights.