Things To Do
in Bursa
Bursa, Turkey, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, lush greenery, and stunning Ottoman architecture. As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, it boasts numerous historical sites, including mosques, thermal baths, and silk markets. The city is also renowned for its natural beauty, nestled at the foot of Mount Uludağ, making it a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Additionally, Bursa is famous for its culinary delights, particularly its kebabs and desserts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture with its stunning calligraphy and serene atmosphere.
Head to Koza Han, a historical silk market, to explore local crafts and enjoy lunch at a nearby café featuring traditional Turkish cuisine.
Conclude your day with a visit to Bursa's historic city center, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and dinner at a local restaurant serving Iskender kebab.
Take a cable car ride up Mount Uludağ for breathtaking views and a chance to explore the national park. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the lush surroundings.
Visit the thermal baths of Çekirge to relax and rejuvenate in the naturally hot mineral waters.
Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Tophane Park, where you can watch the sunset over the city and enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🍕Pizza | $6 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $1 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage
- Delicious local cuisine and dining options
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
- Less vibrant nightlife compared to larger cities
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Evet" - Yes
Places to Visit in Bursa
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning example of Ottoman architecture, this mosque offers beautiful calligraphy and vast prayer halls, perfect for architectural photography.
Capture panoramic views of Bursa from the summit, along with stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
A historical silk market with charming architecture and vibrant colors, ideal for cultural and street photography.
Food in Bursa
Bursa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sliced lamb or beef served over bread, topped with tomato sauce and yogurt.
Must-Try!
A variant of kebab that's marinated and grilled, popular for its tender texture.
Turkish-style flatbread topped with various ingredients like cheese, minced meat, or vegetables.
Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
Candied chestnuts, a sweet treat that is a local specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local snacks.
Famous for its food stalls serving delicious kebabs, gözleme (Turkish flatbread), and sweet pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
Turkish people are known for their hospitality; it is polite to accept offers of tea or snacks when visiting.
It is common to share meals; always wait for the host to start eating before you do.
Safety
Tipping in Bursa
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% for good service in restaurants. However, rounding up the bill is also appreciated.
Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and city exploration.
Warm to hot temperatures can be expected, perfect for mountain excursions but be prepared for some crowds.
Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting for sightseeing.
Cold weather, with occasional snow in the mountains, is perfect for winter sports on Mount Uludağ.
Bursa at Night
Hiking in Bursa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers easy hiking paths through lush forests and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Various hiking trails in this national park cater to all levels, with routes leading to stunning vistas and natural features.
Airports
How to reach Bursa by plane.
Located approximately 50 kilometers from the city center, this airport serves domestic flights and some international routes, offering convenient access to Bursa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Bursa's population consists of ethnic Turks, who have a rich cultural heritage and traditions.
With several universities in the city, Bursa has a vibrant student population that contributes to the city's youthful and dynamic atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Bursa, with local teams like Bursaspor having a passionate following.
In winter, Mount Uludağ becomes a skiing destination, attracting both local and international tourists for winter sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bursa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bursa has several vegetarian-friendly dishes, including pide and vegetable mezes, and many restaurants can accommodate dietary preferences.
Most restaurants in Bursa serve halal food, making it convenient for Muslim travelers.