Bursa PRIVATE Tour From istanbul (VIP MINIVAN) Best Quality

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Istanbul and explore a lesser-known Turkish gem, this private tour to Bursa and Uludag might just be the option for you. It promises a blend of scenic travel, cultural sights, and outdoor fun—all in a comfortable, personalized setting. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve actually experienced it to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on flexibility and comfort. The all-inclusive transportation and private setting mean you can customize your experience without the pressure of a large group. Plus, the ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara offers a scenic start that sets the tone for a day well spent. On the flip side, one consideration is that the cable car ride up Uludag isn’t included in the price, so budget that additional cost if you plan to reach the mountain’s summit. This tour suits travelers who prefer a relaxed, tailored day out that hits both cultural highlights and outdoor adventures.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private minivan ensures comfort and flexibility.
• Scenic Journey: Ferry across the Sea of Marmara adds a memorable touch to your trip.
• Cultural Highlights: See Bursa’s top sights in the city center, avoiding crowds.
• Outdoor Adventure: Optional cable car trip to Uludag offers stunning views and activities.
• Value for Money: All transportation and fees included, with some extra costs for activities.
• Customer Satisfaction: Consistently high reviews for punctuality, professionalism, and friendly service.

Introduction: What’s the Tour All About?

If you’re eager to see more of Turkey beyond Istanbul, this private day trip to Bursa and Uludag offers a convenient way to do so. With a focus on comfort, you’ll get a private VIP minivan, which means fewer worries about group logistics and more attention to your interests. We love that the tour includes a scenic ferry ride, giving you a relaxing start and a chance to enjoy the Sea of Marmara’s views.

Another thing we appreciate is the flexibility to customize your experience. You can explore Bursa’s highlights or spend more time enjoying outdoor activities at Uludag, depending on what appeals most. An added bonus is the opportunity to visit the iconic Inkaya Plane Tree, a peaceful spot perfect for coffee or local snacks in a beautiful setting.

One thing to consider is that the cable car to Uludag isn’t included in the base price, so if you plan to go up, budget an extra $70 for that. This might be worth it for the views and mountain experience. This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and a mix of culture and nature in a single day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour is tailored for those who want a personalized, hassle-free experience. The private minivan means you can move at your own pace and customize your stops, making it ideal if you have specific interests or travel with a small group. Plus, the total price includes all fees and taxes, simplifying your budgeting.

We also love that the tour offers a chance to visit a Turkish city that many travelers skip—Bursa. It’s a city rich with history, yet less crowded than Istanbul, giving you an authentic feel of local life and architecture. The ferry ride from Istanbul to Yalova, then onward to Bursa, makes the journey more scenic and enjoyable. As one reviewer noted, “Oka was very punctual and professional,” highlighting the quality of the service.

However, a few travelers pointed out that the cable car ticket isn’t included, which is something you’ll need to factor into your planning. The extra $70 can be worth it if you’re eager to reach Uludag’s summit and enjoy outdoor activities like skiing or hiking.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Ferry Ride from the Sea of Marmara to Yalova

Starting your day with a ferry ride offers a breezy, scenic beginning. It’s a relaxing way to leave Istanbul behind and enjoy water views before arriving at Bursa. This part of the journey takes about 30 minutes and is included in the price, with no extra charge—an easy way to start your adventure.

Travelers mention that the ferry ride is a highlight, offering a “nice experience” and a chance to see Istanbul from the water. The calm crossing sets a laid-back tone for the rest of your day.

Stop 2: Bursa City Center Sightseeing

Once in Bursa, your guide will take you around the city’s top spots. The city center is rich in Ottoman architecture, mosques, and markets. Because this part of the tour lasts about two hours and is free of additional fees, it’s a good chance to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.

Reviewers were pleased with the guided experience: “The service was excellent, and our guide was very knowledgeable,” one stated. It’s a perfect stop for snapping photos, exploring local shops, or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Stop 3: Uludag Cable Car and Mountain

The highlight for many is the trip up Uludag Mountain. You can take the cable car (ticket not included), which offers spectacular views as you ascend. If you decide to go all the way to the top, expect an extra $70, and be prepared for potentially variable weather.

Note that the cable car ride is seasonal, and weather conditions like strong winds may cancel or limit the ride, as some reviews mention. One traveler shared that their cable car ride stopped halfway due to heavy wind, which was disappointing but understandable.

You’ll have around four hours for this part, enough to explore, take photos, or partake in outdoor activities if available. A few reviews mention that the mountain is particularly stunning in winter, with snow-covered landscapes that make the visit feel extra special.

Stop 4: Inkaya Plane Tree

The final stop is at the historic Inkaya Plane Tree—an ancient, sprawling tree where you can relax, enjoy a cup of coffee, or sample local foods. This peaceful setting is a favorite among travelers, especially for a moment of calm before heading back.

The included itinerary states this stop is about an hour long, and it’s a perfect way to wind down and reflect on your day.

The Practical Side: Transportation & Costs

The private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride throughout the day. From pickup to drop-off, you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or sharing your vehicle with strangers. The price, at around $414 per person, might seem steep but considering it covers all fees, taxes, transportation, and bottled water, it’s quite competitive for a day of personalized touring.

The main additional cost is the cable car ticket, which is not included in the base price. Budget around $70 if you wish to reach Uludag’s summit. The flexibility to customize the itinerary makes this tour particularly appealing to those who want a tailored experience without the constraints of a large group.

Real Traveler Experiences

Many reviewers praised the professionalism and friendliness of the guide, Oka. “He was very punctual, helpful, and showed us around the city,” one reviewer shared. Others highlighted how comfortable the vehicle was, especially for families or groups, with “a very comfortable vehicle” mentioned repeatedly.

There’s also a consistent appreciation for the driver’s patience and flexibility. When weather canceled some outdoor plans, the driver waited patiently or helped adjust plans, which is invaluable on a day trip.

A few travelers mentioned that the tour felt more like transportation with some sightseeing, especially if you’re expecting a fully guided experience at every stop. But overall, the high ratings suggest most found the balance just right.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you value comfort, flexibility, and a chance to see Bursa without the hassle of large tour groups, this private tour checks many boxes. It’s suitable if you’re interested in a mix of city sightseeing, outdoor mountain views, and relaxing stops like the Inkaya Plane Tree. The inclusion of ferry rides and private transport makes the journey worry-free, especially for travelers who prefer not to navigate public transit or crowded buses.

However, if you’re set on reaching the Uludag summit or want a fully guided experience at each stop, you’ll need to budget for extra costs and plan accordingly. Weather can also impact the mountain trip, so keep that in mind if visiting in winter or during windy days.

This tour offers good value for those who appreciate a personalized approach and want to explore Bursa comfortably. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prioritize high-quality service, scenic water crossings, and a blend of cultural and outdoor activities.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate in the VIP minivan, ensuring a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, all fees and taxes, bottled water, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are the ferry and transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The vehicle is air-conditioned and private, making the journey comfortable and relaxed.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 14 hours, with each stop carefully timed for a smooth experience.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is private, so you can adjust the itinerary to suit your interests, within reason.

How much is the cable car to Uludag?
The cable car ticket is not included, and it costs about $70 if you choose to go to the mountain top.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the cable car ride, especially in winter or windy conditions. The guide will advise on the best options.

Is this suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the comfort and flexibility make it suitable for small groups, including families with older children.

What is the best time of year to go?
Most reviews mention winter visits for snow and mountain views, but the tour runs year-round, weather-dependent.

If you’re after a relaxed, private day exploring Bursa and Uludag, this tour offers a great mix of scenery, culture, and outdoor fun. Just be sure to budget for the cable car if you want the full mountain experience, and prepare for a long but rewarding day.