Full-Day Istanbul to Bursa Excursion With Cable Car

If you’re looking to escape the bustle of Istanbul for a day and get a taste of Turkey’s diverse landscape and history, this Full-Day Istanbul to Bursa Excursion with Cable Car offers an appealing mix. It’s a popular choice among travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable glimpse of Bursa’s charms without staying overnight.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines cultural highlights, like the Green Mosque, with natural beauty—thanks to stops at Uludag National Park and the cable car ride. Plus, the included lunch and hotel pickup make it feel streamlined and convenient.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the tour is quite packed, which might feel a bit rushed if you prefer a slower pace or want to explore each site in depth. And since it’s a shared group experience, it’s not customizable, so if you have specific interests, you might find it a little rigid.

This trip suits travelers who want a well-rounded day trip that hits the major sights and enjoys a scenic journey—especially if you’re okay with a full, sometimes busy schedule.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines cultural, natural, and scenic highlights in one day.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, drop-off, and lunch, saving you planning time.
• Scenic Highlights: Cable car ride offers beautiful panoramic views of Bursa and Mount Uludag.
• Activity Level: Some stops, like Yalova optional rides, add an element of adventure but require patience for waiting.
• Tour Length: Long day (around 13-14 hours), so good for energetic travelers.
• Group Size: Shared experience with up to 40 travelers, which keeps it lively but not overly large.

What to Expect from the Full-Day Bursa Tour

This tour is a thoughtful way to see Bursa’s most beloved sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. We’ll walk through the itinerary, considering what makes each stop worth your time—and what to keep in mind.

Starting the Day at the Covered Bazaar (Bedesten)

Your day kicks off early with hotel pickup, so you’ll want to be ready by 8:30 am. The first stop, the Covered Bazaar, is a true window into Bursa’s trading history. Having been around since the 14th century, this labyrinthine market is still lively today. Expect to see traditional Turkish goods like textiles, ceramics, and spices.

One reviewer, Nabila_H, mentioned: “the best part was the cable car,” but she also appreciated how smoothly everything ran, even when her pickup was late. The admission ticket is included, so there’s no extra hassle. You’ll spend around 2 hours here, giving you just enough time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up a small souvenir.

Ascending to Uludag National Park

Next, you’ll head to Uludag National Park, a cherished spot for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts. This part of the tour is free—meaning no extra cost—and offers a chance to enjoy Turkey’s lush greenery. In summer, it’s perfect for picnicking and casual walks; in winter, it transforms into a skiing paradise.

Traveling into the forested area, you’ll notice how the cool mountain air invigorates you. The park visit lasts roughly three hours, which gives enough time to breathe in the fresh air and take some photos. It’s a highlight for many travelers who enjoy nature, and it offers a peaceful contrast to the busy bazaar.

Sampling Bursa’s Local Flavors at Munira Bursa

After the natural stop, you’ll visit Munira Bursa—a hub for authentic Turkish cuisine. This is where the tour truly feeds into the local experience. Indulging in traditional dishes gives a taste of Bursa’s culinary heritage, making the trip more memorable.

While the stop is only 45 minutes, it’s enough for a quick bite or a relaxed coffee. The area is lively, and the food is often praised for its authenticity. It’s a great way to connect with local culture without requiring a full meal break, especially after a busy morning.

Riding the Bursa Teleferik (Cable Car)

The cable car ride is often highlighted as the best part of the tour—offering sweeping views of Bursa, Mount Uludag, and the surrounding landscape. Suspended high above the terrain, you’ll enjoy a thrilling and picturesque ascent.

This ride takes around 45 minutes, and the views are truly spectacular. It’s a great opportunity for photos, and many travelers mention how the vistas stay with them long after the tour ends. It’s a standout feature, especially given the value included in the tour price.

Visiting the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii)

A visit to the Green Mosque is a must for those interested in Ottoman architecture and Islamic culture. Built between 1412 and 1419, its signature feature is the stunning green and turquoise tilework. The mosque’s serene courtyard and elegant domes make it a peaceful stop.

Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior, admire the intricate tile decorations, and appreciate its historical significance. Because it’s still an active place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully. The admission is included, and the stop lasts about 40 minutes. It’s a favorite among culture buffs and those wanting to see Bursa’s architectural gems.

Passing Through Yalova Province

On the way back toward Istanbul, the tour briefly passes through Yalova Province, known for its peaceful environment and natural beauty. This segment is more about the scenic drive than specific sightseeing, but it offers the chance for some fresh air and a break.

Options like a chair lift or ATV rides are available if you want to add some excitement—though these are not included in the tour price. If you choose to participate, be prepared for possible waiting times, especially for the ATV rides, which can be up to 35 minutes.

Wrap-up and Return

The journey concludes with a relaxed drive back to Istanbul, arriving in the evening. The tour is a full, sometimes exhausting day, but many appreciate the value of visiting such a range of sights without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals.

The Experience: Practical Insights

From the reviews, we gather that this tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and comfort. Travelers appreciated the smooth operations and the professional attitude of the team. The inclusion of lunch and pickup/drop-off adds convenience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Bursa and Istanbul.

One guest noted the tour was a bit lengthy, but appreciated how everything was on time and well-organized. The cable car is consistently praised as a highlight, with many describing the views as “breathtaking” and “worth every minute.”

The optional activities in Yalova, like the chair lift or ATV rides, add a layer of flexibility and fun, though they do require waiting if you decide not to participate. Keep in mind, if you’re not keen on waiting around, you might want to stick to the main itinerary.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At around $28.81 per person, this tour offers a solid value given the number of sites covered and the included amenities. The admission tickets, cable car, and lunch are all part of the package, which minimizes additional expenses.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Bursa but don’t want to spend multiple days. The long duration means it’s geared toward those with decent energy levels and an interest in a busy, full schedule.

If you prefer a more relaxed, customizable experience, you might find this tour a little too packed. But if you’re eager to see key sights efficiently and enjoy some scenic moments, it’s a good option.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Istanbul to Bursa combines cultural highlights, scenic outdoor spots, and comfortable transportation, making it a practical choice for curious travelers. The inclusion of the cable car ride and lunch ensures a rounded experience without added hassle.

The stops at the Green Mosque, Uludag National Park, and the Covered Bazaar give a well-balanced view of Bursa’s diverse appeal. The optional activities in Yalova add some adventure, though they’re best suited for the more energetic.

While it’s a long day—about 13 to 14 hours—it’s packed with memorable sights and experiences. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and want to maximize your time, this tour offers a reliable, value-for-money way to explore Bursa’s highlights in one go.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation.

What’s the duration of the tour?
Expect the entire trip to last around 13 to 14 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are all entrance fees included?
Most sites, including the Green Mosque and the Covered Bazaar, have their admission tickets included. Some optional activities in Yalova, like ATV rides, are extra.

Can I participate in activities like ATV rides?
Yes, optional ATV rides are available in Yalova, but they are not included in the tour price and may involve waiting times.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll travel by a shared group transport, with the cable car ride included as part of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers, the long hours and waiting times might be tiring for very young children. The tour is more geared toward adult travelers and older children.

What should I wear for the visit to the Green Mosque?
Dress respectfully, with covered shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship.

Is the tour flexible or customizable?
Since this is a shared group tour, it cannot be customized. It follows a set itinerary with designated stops.

What’s the price of the tour?
The tour costs around $28.81 per person, offering good value considering the included activities and sites.

If you’re looking for a full, well-organized day to see the best of Bursa from Istanbul, this tour is a dependable choice. It balances sightseeing, scenic views, and culture—perfect for those who want a snapshot of Bursa’s charm in just a day.