From Istanbul: Green Bursa Full-Day Excursion

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Istanbul for a day and explore a city rich in gardens, history, and local culture, the Green Bursa tour might catch your eye. This full-day trip takes you from the bustling European side of Istanbul to the charming city of Bursa, once the Ottoman Empire’s capital. While it’s not a hidden secret, it’s a popular choice—and for good reason.

What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to enjoy breathtaking views from the cable car to Uludag, and to wander through beautiful gardens and historic landmarks. The tour offers a nice mix of nature, history, and shopping, which can make for a well-rounded day out. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the day can feel a bit long, especially with a lot of stops that some might see as geared towards shopping rather than sightseeing.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see more of Turkey beyond Istanbul, especially those interested in Ottoman history, scenic views, and Turkish culture. If you’re okay with a long day on the road and don’t mind a few commercial stops, you’ll probably enjoy this trip.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned bus makes the long day manageable.
• Guided tours provide insight into Bursa’s key landmarks, thanks to licensed guides.
• The cable car ride offers stunning views of Uludag and is a highlight for many travelers.
• The tour includes lunch and entry fees, offering good value for the price.
• Some reviews mention an abundance of shopping stops, which might not appeal to everyone.
• The total duration of 14 hours means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day away from Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect from the Day

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from the European side of Istanbul, which is a real convenience but also means you’ll spend some time in transit before reaching Bursa. The journey typically takes around an hour, during which your guide may share some background on Bursa’s history and significance.

Once in Bursa, you’ll get about 45 minutes in the city for personal exploration. This break is enough to stretch your legs, maybe grab a quick coffee, or browse a bit—though keep an eye on the clock, as the tour keeps a busy pace.

Uludag and the Cable Car Ride

One of the most memorable moments is the cable car trip up Mount Uludag. The views from the teleferik are often praised—it’s a fantastic way to see the city from above and get a sense of Bursa’s natural beauty. The cable car ride is a definite highlight, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities or scenic vistas. If weather conditions prevent the cable car from operating, there’s a backup plan involving a minibus to the ski slopes, so you still get to experience the mountain.

Gardens, Mosques, and Monuments

Back in the city center, your guide will lead you through Bursa’s green spaces and parks. The city is known as Yesil or Green Bursa because of its lush gardens, which provide a peaceful contrast to the busy streets.

The visit includes the Green (Grand) Mosque and the Green Mausoleum—both iconic landmarks showcasing Ottoman architecture and craftsmanship. These sites are great for history buffs or anyone interested in Turkish culture and religion. Expect to spend some time soaking in the intricate tile work and historical ambiance.

The Old Silk Market and Shopping

A visit to Bursa isn’t complete without exploring its ancient silk market. Here, you’ll have a chance to browse traditional textiles, souvenirs, and local crafts. As some reviews suggest, the shopping aspect can dominate the tour slightly—many travelers feel there are too many stops for shopping, which might take away from sightseeing. If you’re not into shopping, it’s worth noting that you might want to keep a firm eye on your schedule or communicate your preferences with your guide.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Rest Breaks

The tour includes a barbeque lunch, typically served at a local restaurant. This offers a chance to rest and enjoy some traditional Turkish fare. While the meal is included in the price, the quality can vary depending on the restaurant, but most travelers find it satisfying enough to fuel the rest of their day.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences

Guides and Value
Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Haytham and Dilek, who manage the group well and share insights into Bursa’s sights. For the price—around $48 per person—the tour offers reasonable value, including transportation, entry fees, and lunch.

Long Day, Heavy on Shopping Stops
Some travelers feel the day is a bit too long, especially since there are quite a few shopping stops. One review specifically mentioned that removing some shopping could make the tour more enjoyable for those who prefer sightseeing over commercial visits.

Scenic Highlights
The cable car ride is consistently highlighted as a must-do. The views of Mount Uludag are stunning, and many say it’s worth the trip alone. The gardens and historical landmarks are also well-loved, offering a glimpse into Bursa’s Ottoman past.

Timing and Comfort
The 14-hour duration, with early pickup and late return, means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day. The bus ride itself can be tiring, especially if traffic causes delays or if you’re not accustomed to long group excursions. Still, the air-conditioned bus and the convenience of hotel pickup make this manageable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys history, scenic views, and a taste of Turkish culture without spending too much time planning, this tour covers those bases pretty well. It’s particularly suitable for travelers staying on the European side of Istanbul who want a comprehensive yet relaxed look at Bursa.

However, if your priority is exploring local life or avoiding commercial stops, you might find some aspects a bit too touristy or shopping-focused. The long day also makes it less ideal if you prefer shorter trips or traveling with young children who might tire easily.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and culture at a reasonable price point. The guides get high marks for their knowledge and management, and the cable car ride alone makes it worth considering. The gardens, mosques, and historical sites provide meaningful insights into Bursa’s Ottoman past, which is fascinating for history lovers.

On the flip side, the long duration and multiple shopping stops might not suit everyone. If you’re someone who prefers more authentic, less commercialized experiences, you might find parts of it a bit too touristy.

This is a solid choice for those wanting to see a different side of Turkey in a day, especially if you’re comfortable with long hours and group tours. It’s a chance to enjoy some stunning scenery, historical beauty, and a taste of local life—all in one trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels on the European side of Istanbul, like Sultanahmet, Laleli, Taksim, and nearby areas.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and your passport or ID card are recommended, as there will be quite a bit of walking and some sightseeing.

Is the cable car ride guaranteed?
The cable car is a highlight, but if weather conditions prevent operation, a backup plan involving a minibus to the ski slopes is in place.

Can I skip the shopping stops?
The itinerary includes several shopping stops, which some travelers find too many, but the tour doesn’t seem to offer a way to skip them.

What about lunch?
Lunch is included, typically a barbeque, giving you a break and a taste of local cuisine.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets and electric wheelchairs are not permitted on the tour.

How does the guide enhance the experience?
Guides like Haytham are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the trip more engaging and informative.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but with long hours and some walking on uneven surfaces, it’s better for those comfortable with a full day out.

What if I want to explore Uludag more?
While the cable car ride offers great views, more extensive mountain activities would require separate arrangements.

If you’re ready for a day of scenic views, historic sights, and a bit of Turkish shopping, this Bursa tour from Istanbul is a decent pick. Just pack comfy shoes, keep an eye on the clock, and enjoy the ride!

You can check availability for your dates here: