Bursa Nature Tour with Lunch & Cable Car (optional)

Experience the Magic of Bursa with the Nature Tour, Including Lunch and Cable Car Rides

If you’re craving a day away from Istanbul’s hustle, the Bursa Nature Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s lush landscapes, historic sites, and local delights. Spanning about 12 hours, this tour whisks you from the city to the mountains, blending sightseeing, tasty treats, and panoramic views. You’ll visit Uludağ Mountain, hop on a cable car, explore ancient trees, and even enjoy some winter sports if the season allows.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances cultural highlights with natural beauty. The stunning cable car ride over Bursa’s green valleys is a real highlight—imagine soaring above treetops with a bird’s-eye view of the city and mountains. Plus, the visit to the historic plane tree, over 600 years old, offers a quiet moment of awe amid nature.

One thing to consider is that some parts like ski equipment and quad safaris are not included in the standard package, which might require additional planning if you’re looking for winter sports.

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a full-day escape that combines history, scenery, and delicious local flavors, especially if you enjoy authentic experiences and stunning vistas. It’s suitable for those who prefer organized trips with a knowledgeable guide and appreciate a good mix of relaxation and activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining natural beauty, history, and local treats
• Stunning cable car ride offers panoramic views of Bursa and Uludağ
• Authentic experiences like Turkish delight and jam tastings
• Flexible options for lunch and optional cable car or ski activities
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling and cultural context
• Good value for a full-day tour that covers diverse interests

A Thorough Look at the Bursa Nature Tour Experience

Starting early from Istanbul, the tour typically begins with hotel pickup between 07:45 and 09:00, giving you a head start on your adventure. We appreciated how smoothly the logistics are handled, with a comfortable transfer to Bursa, crossing the Osmangazi Bridge or a ferry, which adds a touch of excitement before you even arrive. The journey itself sets the tone for the day—relaxing, scenic, and well-organized.

First Stop: Turkish Delight and Jam Shops

The tour kickstarts with a sweet introduction—a visit to a Turkish delight shop, where you can sample and purchase these chewy, fragrant confections. Based on reviews, many travelers found this stop delightful, enjoying the free tastings and the chance to take home some authentic treats. It’s a sensory experience that immediately immerses you in Turkey’s famous flavors.

Next, a visit to a jam shop follows. Guests rave about tasting organic jams, which are often described as “flavorful” and “unlike anything in the city”. It’s a perfect chance to savor a taste of local produce and maybe pick up some jars as souvenirs.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After these sweet stops, your group heads to a local restaurant for lunch. The focus is on Turkish cuisine, offering a hearty meal that reflects Bursa’s culinary traditions. While reviews don’t specify the exact dishes, the emphasis on local food suggests a flavorful experience. This break gives you a chance to recharge and discuss your impressions so far amid a friendly, communal setting.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Historic Plane Tree: Nature and History

Post-lunch, the tour visits the 638-year-old plane tree—a highlight for many. Travelers like Ishak Bin Mohamad remark on its massive branches and beautiful surroundings. It’s a quiet, natural spot that’s perfect for photos and appreciating the longevity of Turkey’s natural heritage. Spending some time here offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city, and the tree’s age makes it a living testament to Bursa’s history.

Uludağ Mountain: Mountain Majesty and Views

The next leg takes you up to Uludağ—Turkey’s premier winter sports destination. Whether you’re into skiing, motor skiing, or simply soaking in the breathtaking vistas, this part of the trip is often the most memorable.

Our favorite aspect, as noted in reviews, is the mountain scenery. We loved the way the landscape opens up, giving you sweeping views of the Bursa valley. It’s a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air and marvel at the natural beauty that makes Uludağ a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Cable Car Ride: Birds-Eye View of Bursa

From the mountain top, the tour continues with a cable car ride back down to the city center. The 25-minute ride offers a spectacular panorama of Bursa’s forests, cityscape, and distant mountains. Many travelers mention this as a “must-do”, describing it as “soaring over treetops like a bird”.

The cable car not only provides an impressive view but also a sense of adventure, especially for those who enjoy heights and scenic rides. The experience is smooth, with knowledgeable guides offering insights along the way.

Historic Bath Turned Souvenir Shop & Cultural Sites

Back in the city, the tour visits a historical bath that’s now a souvenir shop. It’s a quirky, charming spot where you can browse local crafts and memorabilia. Many appreciate the authenticity of this stop—rather than a generic shop, it feels like a part of Bursa’s living history.

Finally, visits to the Yeil Mosque and Yeil Tomb round out your culture. These sites are important for their architectural and historical significance, and many travelers find them quietly impressive. The guides typically share stories that deepen your understanding of Bursa’s place in Ottoman history.

Return Journey and Reflection

As the day winds down, the tour heads back to Istanbul, often with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty to talk about. Guests like Chloe comment on the peaceful nature setting and great cable car ride, which made the trip feel like a true escape.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour is priced to include hotel pick-up and drop-off, ferry or bridge crossing, entrance fees to Uludağ, a lunch with soft drinks, and a live English-speaking guide. This comprehensive package offers good value, especially considering the variety of experiences packed into the 12 hours.

While additional activities like ATV safaris or ski equipment are extra, the core tour provides a well-rounded day—perfect for those who want an introduction to Bursa’s natural beauty and history without the hassle of organizing each stop.

The small group atmosphere (if included) ensures you can ask questions and get personalized insights, making the experience more enriching. The flexible booking policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind for planning.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour works well for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural scenery, cultural sites, and local flavors. It’s particularly suited for those interested in panoramic views, outdoor scenery, and historic sights. It also appeals to visitors who enjoy guided experiences, as the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

If you’re looking for winter sports or more time to explore Bursa independently, you might need to plan additional activities, but for a full-day overview, this tour hits many highlights.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone eager to see Bursa’s mountains, historic sites, and natural beauty comfortably in one day, this tour offers a lot of value. The cable car ride, historic trees, and local tastings create memorable moments—especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights.

It’s a great option for those who prefer a structured, worry-free day that includes transportation, entrance fees, and meals. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this tour a convenient way to experience Bursa beyond the typical city sights.

While not a venture for adventure seekers looking for extreme sports (those are optional and extra), it’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic views, cultural sites, and authentic local flavors.

This tour provides a genuine taste of Bursa’s natural and cultural charm—well-paced, friendly, and thoughtfully organized.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with pickup times between 07:45 and 09:00. You’ll be informed of your specific time a day before.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 12 hours, making it a full-day experience. Expect to start early and return in the evening.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch at a local restaurant and soft drinks are part of the package, offering a chance to enjoy authentic Bursa cuisine.

Can I do winter sports like skiing?
While the tour includes Uludağ and cable car rides, ski equipment and gloves are not included. You might find options for winter sports on-site, but they come at extra cost.

Is the cable car ride scenic?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight the breathtaking views during the 25-minute ride, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families who enjoy scenic outings and cultural sites. Just keep in mind the full-day commitment and the weather conditions, especially in winter.

This Bursa Nature Tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic, and scenic day out that combines Turkey’s natural beauty with its rich history. Whether you’re after panoramic views, historic sites, or local flavors, you’ll find plenty to love—making it one of the more rewarding day trips from Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here: