Daily Green Bursa Tour From Istanbul

If you’re considering a day trip from Istanbul to explore Bursa, this tour might be on your radar. We’ve looked into the experience from multiple angles, and while it’s not perfect, it offers a decent glimpse into what this fascinating city has to offer. Think of it as a whirlwind taste of Ottoman history and mountain scenery, wrapped into a 14-hour adventure.

What we really like about this tour is the combination of scenic travel and cultural sights—starting with the ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara, which adds a layer of relaxation and fun, and visiting the Green Mosque and Green Tomb, both landmarks that give you a solid feel for Bursa’s Ottoman past. Plus, the cable car ride up Mt. Uludag is a highlight for those who enjoy nature or want a break from the city chaos.

However, a potential snag is the timing and tour organization. Several reviews mention that the schedule can be inconsistent, with some visitors arriving late or missing key sites like the Green Mosque and Mausoleum altogether. The long bus ride from Istanbul (about 2 hours each way) can also be tiring, especially if you’re not a fan of long group trips. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who don’t mind a busy day and are eager to see highlights without too many surprises.

This experience could work well if you’re after a cost-effective, guided introduction to Bursa and don’t mind the occasional logistical hiccup. It’s more about ticking boxes than fully enjoying every site, so if that sounds good, read on for a detailed look.

Key Points

• It combines a ferry ride with sightseeing, making for a varied day trip.
• The tour includes a cable car ascent up Mt. Uludag, offering stunning views.
• Some sites may be skipped or rushed, so manage your expectations.
• The lunch included is a highlight, with good local food and tapas.
• Long pickup process might tire you out before the tour really begins.
• Tour size is limited to 25 people, keeping things relatively intimate.
• Reviews are mixed—some travelers love the experience, others find it disappointing.
• Best for those wanting a quick overview of Bursa without a lot of hassle.

What It’s Like to Visit Bursa on This Tour

We’re looking at a full-day adventure that kicks off early, with a pickup at your hotel in Istanbul. It’s a 14-hour trip, so be prepared for a long day, but with plenty of moments to look forward to. The day begins with a ferry crossing that lasts around two hours. During the ride, you’ll get to enjoy the views of the Marmara Sea—something that’s often praised for being relaxing and scenic, and definitely a good way to start your day.

Once you arrive in Bursa, the first stop is the Green Mosque, built in 1424, which was once the largest complex of its time. The mosque’s architecture and history are meaningful, but keep in mind that some reviews indicate not everyone gets to see everything as planned. You’ll get about 20 minutes here, so plan to soak in the exterior and perhaps snap a few photos.

Next, you head to the Green Tomb, which is free to visit. It’s the resting place of Ottoman Sultan Mehmet Celebi and offers a quiet, contemplative moment amid the busy day. After this, the tour takes you to Uludag National Park, where you can enjoy the scenery and perhaps breathe in some fresh mountain air. Well, at least that’s the plan—the actual experience depends on the weather and timing.

One of the reasons this tour is popular is because of the cable car ride up Mt. Uludag. The 10-minute ride offers panoramic views, and you’ll get to see the lush landscape from above. It’s a highlight for many, especially if you’re into outdoor activities or just want a break from the city.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the silk market and covered bazaar, which are full of local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. This shopping experience tends to be a mixed bag—some travelers find it interesting, others see it as a commercial stop that doesn’t do justice to Bursa’s true artisan culture. Several reviews mention that some stops are “purely commercial,” and that the main historical sites are often skipped or rushed.

The Meal and Food Experience

One of the standout features of this tour is the included lunch. Travelers consistently praise the food, describing it as tasty and an enjoyable break in the day. Depending on your preferences, you might find the meal simple but satisfying, offering a taste of local cuisine with some tapas-style dishes. It’s a good opportunity to relax, refuel, and discuss the morning’s sights with your fellow travelers.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences

While some reviews highlight highlights like “spectacular views” and “a day full of adventure,” others point out notable downsides. For example, timing issues seem common—the bus often takes longer than expected to gather everyone from Istanbul, which can cut into your sightseeing time. One traveler said, “It takes a long time to collect travelers, about two hours, which can leave you tired before the tour even begins.”

Plus, there are mixed reports about the quality of the guide’s explanations. One reviewer lamented that the guide was “poor in English” and that the explanations were brief, which might leave some visitors wishing for a more informative experience. On the other hand, some travelers appreciated the informative guide and felt they learned enough to appreciate Bursa’s history.

Another point to consider is that, according to some reviews, not all sites are visited as advertised. Travelers reported arriving late or missing out on key attractions like the Green Mosque or the mausoleum entirely. This inconsistency can be frustrating, especially if you’re eager to see specific landmarks.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re generally okay with long travel hours, group tours, and some uncertainty about the schedule, you’ll find this trip a decent way to get a glimpse of Bursa’s highlights. It’s best suited for travelers on a budget who want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple transport connections and prefer to have a guide handle logistics.

This tour also appeals to those who enjoy scenic views, outdoor activities like the cable car ride, and sampling local food. It’s less ideal if you’re expecting a deeply immersive experience or detailed historical explanations—some reviews suggest that the tour can feel rushed or commercialized.

Final Thoughts

This Green Bursa Tour offers a cost-effective way to see some of Bursa’s central sights, with the added adventure of a ferry ride and a mountain cable car. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick overview without the complexity of organizing their own transport or extensive sightseeing plans.

The included lunch and scenic views stand out as definite positives, and the relatively small group size keeps things manageable. Still, keep in mind that the experience can vary quite a bit depending on the day and the guide—some visitors leave feeling satisfied, others disappointed by missed sites or rushed explanations.

If you’re okay with a busy day and some unpredictability, this tour can definitely be worth considering. Just go into it with realistic expectations, especially regarding timing and site visits. It’s more about getting a taste of Bursa than savoring every detail, but for many, that’s perfectly fine.

FAQ

How long does the ferry ride take?
The ferry crossing from Istanbul to Bursa lasts around two hours, offering a relaxing start with scenic views across the Marmara Sea.

What sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit the Green Mosque, Green Tomb, Uludag National Park, and take a cable car up Mt. Uludag. There’s also a stop at the silk market and covered bazaar.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the long hours and busy schedule, which might be tiring for little ones.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and the cable car ride. Admission tickets to the Green Mosque and Mausoleum are included as well.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some money if you’d like beverages during the day.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 25, making it a somewhat intimate group, though the experience can still feel rushed depending on the day.

How early do we need to be ready?
The start time is 8:30 am, and early pickup is usual, so plan to be prepared in the morning.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, which offers some flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, expect about 14 hours including travel, sightseeing, and meals—be ready for a long but potentially rewarding day.

If you’re looking to tick Bursa off your Turkey itinerary without too much fuss, this tour could be a decent choice. Just keep your expectations in check, and you’ll likely enjoy the ride. Safe travels!