Bursa Uludag Tour from Istanbul - with Lunch & Cable Car

Traveling from Istanbul to explore Bursa’s lush nature, historic landmarks, and mountain scenery makes for a refreshing escape. This full-day tour, priced around a reasonable fee, packs in visits to a 638-year-old plane tree, a traditional Turkish bath-turned-souvenir shop, a scenic cable car ride up Uludag, and some time for winter sports or just soaking in the views.

The tour lasts about 12 hours, with convenience built in through hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to enjoy without the hassle of planning transport. What we especially appreciate is how well it balances cultural highlights with natural beauty—and the inclusion of lunch and admission fees in the price simplifies things.

Two features stand out: the spectacular cable car ride offering panoramic views of Bursa and Uludag, and the chance to enjoy authentic local cuisine in a modest restaurant. The tour also allows free time at Uludag for winter sports like skiing, or simply wandering the mountain’s trails.

However, a point to consider is that the duration of 12 hours can be long, especially if you’re not used to such packed days. Also, while the cable car ride is unforgettable, the weather can sometimes obscure the views—something to keep in mind if you’re visiting in less clear conditions.

This trip suits travelers keen on covering a lot of ground in one day—those interested in history, nature, and local food. If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience that combines sightseeing with cultural flavor, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

Comprehensive day trip from Istanbul covering Bursa’s highlights
Includes cable car ride with breathtaking views of Uludag Mountain
Authentic local experience with visits to Turkish delight and jam shops
Perfect for those seeking a mix of natural scenery, history, and cuisine
Long but rewarding day, ideal for energetic travelers
Great value considering transportation, entrance fees, and lunch are covered

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Exploring the Bursa Uludag Tour in Detail

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Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Travel

One of the first things we appreciate about this tour is the hotel pick-up from Istanbul, either from Fatih or Beyolu, which saves the trouble of arranging your own transport. The journey to Bursa takes about two hours by bus or coach, crossing either a ferry or the Osmangazi Bridge—both scenic routes that give you a glimpse of Turkey’s diverse landscape.

Traveling in a group with a professional guide, you’ll find the ride comfortable and informative, setting the tone for a day packed with highlights. The small group size combined with friendly guides makes for a more personal experience, as several reviews noted.

First Stops: Sweet and Savory Delights

Arriving in Bursa, your first stop is a Turkish delight shop. Here, you’ll enjoy free tastings of these soft, chewy confections—an irresistible introduction to Turkey’s sweet side. The shop offers a variety of flavors, and many travelers find it hard to resist buying extra packages to take home.

Next, a jam shop awaits with an assortment of organic jams, olives, and spreads. The variety surprises many, transforming the simple act of tasting into discovering new flavors and products you might not expect, like exotic spreads or local olive varieties.

Lunch: Savoring Bursa’s Flavors

After these sweet and savory tastings, the tour continues to a local restaurant. Lunch is generous, featuring local cuisine—think succulent chicken, hearty red meat, fresh salad, bread, and wheat rice—all served with a soft drink included. Several travelers, like Christa from Johannesburg, praise the value for money, mentioning that the meal exceeded expectations in both quantity and taste.

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The Historic Plane Tree: A Living Landmark

Post-lunch, the group visits the 638-year-old historic plane tree. It’s a peaceful spot to stretch your legs, take photos, and appreciate a living piece of Bursa’s history. The tree’s age and size make it a fascinating stop, with reviews highlighting it as a must-see.

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Uludag Mountain: Peak Views and Mountain Fun

The highlight for many is the drive up to Uludağ, Turkey’s famous ski resort and natural attraction. The journey itself is scenic, and the mountain offers stunning vistas in summer and snow-covered landscapes in winter. You’ll have about two hours of free time—plenty of opportunity to enjoy the scenery, take photos, or even try winter sports if you’re inclined.

Most notable is the cable car ride from the mountain’s summit down to Bursa’s city center. This gondola trip lasts around 20-25 minutes and covers a distance of almost 10 kilometers—one of the longest cable car rides in the world, according to reviews. We loved the feeling of soaring above the trees and taking in views that stretch across the landscape. If the weather’s clear, this might be the highlight of your day.

Cultural and Historic Stops in Bursa’s Center

Back in the city, you’ll visit a former Ottoman bath that’s now a souvenir shop—perfect for picking up unique gifts. Then, the Yeil Mosque and Yeil Tomb offer a glimpse into Bursa’s religious and cultural heritage, providing a peaceful conclusion to your sightseeing.

Wrapping Up: Return to Istanbul

After this busy day, the tour concludes with the return journey to Istanbul, where you’ll be dropped back at your hotel. Many reviews mention how smooth and well-organized this part is, making it a hassle-free way to see Bursa without the stress of planning your own trip.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Considering the transport, entrance fees, lunch, and guided service are included, many travelers comment on the cost-effectiveness of this package. The reviews frequently praise the professionalism of the guides and the well-coordinated stops, which keep the day flowing smoothly.

The tour’s focus on authentic experiences—from local food to historic sites—adds a rich layer of value, especially if you’re short on time but want to see a lot of Bursa’s highlights.

Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While the day is packed, it’s also quite long, with some travelers noting that 12 hours can be tiring. If you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or have mobility issues, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the weather conditions in winter could affect views from Uludag, so if you’re visiting during rainy or foggy days, the panoramic vistas might not be as spectacular.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive look at Bursa in one day. If you’re curious about local cuisine, natural scenery, and historical sites, this tour hits all those marks. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery—plus, the inclusion of free time at Uludag makes it great for winter sports enthusiasts or those wanting a breather from the busy schedule.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from either Fatih or Beyolu in Istanbul, making it convenient for travelers.

How long is the coach journey from Istanbul to Bursa?
The trip takes approximately two hours, crossing either a ferry or the Osmangazi Bridge, both offering scenic views.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a full meal with soft drinks is included at a local restaurant, and reviews mention it surpassing expectations in both taste and quantity.

What are the main highlights of the day?
Highlights include the Turkish delight and jam shops, the historic plane tree, a scenic cable car ride on Uludag, and visits to Yeil Mosque and Tomb.

Can I try winter sports?
Yes, you can try skiing or motor skiing during your free time at Uludag. Equipment and gear are not included, but the opportunity is available.

Is the cable car ride long?
The cable car ride lasts about 20-25 minutes and covers nearly 10 kilometers, offering some of the longest gondola rides in the world.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are advised. If visiting in winter, bring warm clothing, gloves, and a jacket for the mountain.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses, additional activities like ATV safaris, and ski equipment are not included. Shopping at souvenir shops is optional.

How is the tour guided?
An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing narration and assistance throughout the day.

Would this tour suit families or groups?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially with the outdoor and cultural activities, but be mindful of the long day’s duration.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a well-rounded day trip that combines history, culture, stunning natural scenery, and local flavor, this Bursa Uludag tour offers excellent value. The inclusion of scenic cable car rides, authentic meals, and meaningful stops make it a satisfying experience, especially if you’re eager to see both urban and mountain landscapes in one go.

While the schedule is intensive, the variety of highlights keeps the day engaging. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and the chance to enjoy some winter sports keep many visitors returning with fond memories. It’s a good fit for adventurous, curious travelers who don’t mind a full day and want to make the most of their time in Turkey’s vibrant northwest.

Whether you’re interested in historic sites, natural beauty, or just a fun day out, this tour provides a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Bursa’s many charms.