Things To Do
in Osmangazi
Osmangazi sits in the heart of Bursa Province, where centuries of Ottoman heritage meet modern urban life. The district blends historic mosques, bustling markets, and riverside promenades with a lively, approachable food scene. It serves as a gateway to Uludağ, Bursa's tallest mountain and year-round outdoor playground.
Visitors can wander the narrow lanes of the old town, savor Iskender kebab, and experience a welcoming, city-centered atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bursa Grand Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and intricate calligraphy. After absorbing the tranquility of the mosque, head to the nearby Koza Han, a historical silk market, where you can enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at one of the charming cafes. Take a leisurely stroll through the bustling market, admiring the silk products and local crafts on display.
In the afternoon, delve into Bursa's rich history by visiting the Green Mosque and the adjacent Green Tomb, notable for their exquisite tile work. Afterward, enjoy a scenic walk in the nearby Emir Sultan Mosque complex, where you can soak in the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens. As you explore, take time to sample local delicacies at one of the nearby eateries, such as the famous İskender kebab.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at one of the rooftop restaurants overlooking the city to enjoy a delicious dinner. Savor traditional Ottoman dishes while taking in panoramic views of the historic skyline. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through the city's vibrant streets, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of Bursa at night.
Begin your day early by traveling to Uludağ National Park, a stunning natural retreat just a short drive from Osmangazi. Upon arrival, breathe in the fresh mountain air as you embark on a guided hiking trail that leads you through lush forests and picturesque landscapes. Look out for local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature as you trek deeper into the park.
After a morning of hiking, find a scenic picnic spot to enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the beauty of the mountains. Post-lunch, take advantage of the park’s facilities by renting a bike or going for a gentle nature walk along the serene paths. Be sure to capture the breathtaking views from various lookout points, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
As the day winds down, return to the city and select a local restaurant where you can unwind with a hearty meal. Reflect on the natural beauty you experienced throughout the day while enjoying local specialties. Before heading back to your accommodation, take a leisurely evening stroll at the local park, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚶Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-110 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture in the old town
- Gateway to Uludağ for year-round outdoor activities
- Friendly locals and affordable food
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger Turkish cities
- Some streets are hilly and cobbled, not ideal for strollers or wheelchairs
- Summer heat can be humid and crowded around popular spots
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Bursa'da ne tavsiye edersiniz?" - What do you recommend in Bursa?
- "Hesap, lütfen" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Osmangazi
Visit one of these nice places.
Architectural arches, minarets and courtyards great for wide-angle shots at golden hour.
Timber-framed shopfronts and the courtyard bathed in warm light; ideal for interior shots and reflections.
Intricate Iznik tiles and serene courtyard; a classic Bursa skyline photography backdrop.
Cobblestone lanes and historic timber houses that evoke Ottoman-era street scenes.
Food in Osmangazi
Osmangazi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly sliced doner meat served over pide bread, topped with tomato sauce and yogurt; a Bursa specialty found in most lokantas and kebab houses.
Must-Try!
Fried meatballs served on sliced bread with tomato sauce and melted butter; a comforting staple in many Bursa eateries.
Tiny dumplings topped with garlicky yogurt and a spiced butter sauce; widely available in traditional restaurants.
Roasted chestnuts sold by street vendors in the city center, especially in cooler months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic silk market area with tea houses, snacks, and a chance to pick up local sweets and crafts.
Weekly and daily markets offering fresh produce, olives, cheeses, borek, simit and other street bites.
Casual stalls offering gözleme, simit, ayran and other quick bites ideal for a stroll-walk.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; remove shoes before entering mosques; women may cover hair in some venues; speak softly.
A firm handshake is common; greet with 'Merhaba' and 'Nasılsınız?'; accepting tea offered by locals is common.
Bargaining is common in markets but is done politely; tipping practice follows local service norms.
Safety
Tipping in Osmangazi
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% tip is appreciated if service is not included; rounding up taxis is common.
Turkish Lira is widely used; major cards are accepted in most venues; cash is handy for street stalls and small shops; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with intermittent showers; perfect for walking tours and garden photography.
Warm to hot days; drink water and plan outings early or late to avoid heat; Uludağ offers cooler air.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for city and hillside photography.
Cold with possible snow on Uludağ; many indoor museums and markets are cozy refuges.
Osmangazi at Night
Hiking in Osmangazi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive alpine trails through pine forests and meadows, suitable for varying abilities.
A popular trailhead with scenic viewpoints and picnic areas for easy-to-moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Osmangazi by plane.
Regional airport serving Bursa; small and mostly domestic or seasonal flights; about a 60–70 minute drive from Osmangazi.
Large international hub; about 2–3 hours by road/train from Bursa depending on traffic.
Istanbul’s other major airport; similar travel time to IST; convenient for connections to Asia and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population supports a vibrant cafe and nightlife scene around universities within the Bursa metro area.
Many families live in traditional neighborhoods and newer housing developments surrounding the city center.
Long-standing communities with strong ties to the city’s history and craft traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Bursa has a strong football culture with local clubs and public viewing in stadiums and bars.
Local clubs and community courts support regular games and pick-up matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Osmangazi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many meze, eggplant dishes, lentil soups and vegetable stews are readily available; ask for no meat broths and opt for olive oil-based preparations.