General Information
Bursa is one of Türkiye’s most significant cities, located in the northwestern part of the country. Known as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, combined with a natural beauty that attracts visitors year-round. The city is famous for its thermal baths, historic mosques, silk trade, and being a gateway to the nearby Uludağ National Park—a popular winter destination.
Bursa is not only a vibrant urban center but also a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking wellness. It’s a perfect blend of old-world charm and modernity.
Location
Bursa is situated at the foot of the Uludağ Mountain in northwestern Türkiye, about 150 kilometers south of Istanbul. It is a key city in Marmara Region, linking the Aegean Coast to Anatolia. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including forests, mountainous terrains, and thermal springs, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Nearby Destinations:
- Istanbul: 150 km (2-hour drive)
- Uludağ National Park: 35 km (45-minute drive)
- Mudanya: 30 km (40-minute drive, a charming coastal town)
- İznik: 80 km (1.5-hour drive, famous for its lake and historic sites)
How to Get There
- By Air:
Bursa Yenişehir Airport is the closest airport to the city, located about 50 km from Bursa’s city center. It offers domestic flights primarily from Istanbul. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Istanbul Airport and take a bus or drive to Bursa. - By Bus:
Bursa is well-connected by intercity buses from major Turkish cities, including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Eskişehir. The bus ride from Istanbul takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. - By Car:
Driving to Bursa is easy from Istanbul via the O-5 highway, and the journey typically takes 2 hours. Bursa is also accessible by car from other nearby cities, with well-maintained road networks.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Spring is one of the best times to visit Bursa, with mild temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers in the Botanical Gardens, and outdoor activities like hiking around Uludağ.
- Summer (July – August): Summer can be quite hot, especially in the city center, but the Uludağ National Park offers cooler temperatures and opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and thermal spa visits.
- Autumn (September – November): Autumn is another great time to visit, with cool weather and fewer tourists. The landscape surrounding the city is especially beautiful during the fall season.
- Winter (December – February): Bursa is known for its winter sports, especially on Uludağ Mountain, where visitors can ski, snowboard, and enjoy the fresh snowfall.
Key Festivals & Events:
- Bursa International Festival (June – July): A cultural festival showcasing theater, music, dance, and art performances.
- Uludağ Winter Festival (December – February): A winter sports festival held in the Uludağ National Park, featuring skiing, snowboarding, and live entertainment.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Kempinski Hotel Barış: A luxury hotel located near the Uludağ National Park, offering top-tier amenities, wellness services, and beautiful views of the mountains.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Bursa: Located in the city center, this hotel offers modern rooms and easy access to Bursa’s major attractions.
- Mid-range:
- İpekyolu Hotel: A charming hotel offering comfortable accommodation and located in a central area close to Bursa’s historic sites.
- Holiday Inn Bursa: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, great facilities, and convenient access to the city’s shopping and dining options.
- Budget:
- Otel Celal: A budget-friendly option with cozy rooms and a central location, close to Bursa’s main attractions.
- Bursa Hostel: Ideal for backpackers or budget travelers looking for an affordable and simple place to stay.
Top Attractions
- Uludağ National Park: A beautiful mountain park known for winter sports, skiing, and nature trails. It’s also famous for its lush forests and wildlife.
- Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii): An iconic Ottoman mosque built in the 15th century, showcasing intricate tile work and architecture.
- Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı): One of the oldest covered markets in Türkiye, offering handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and local products like silk and saffron.
- Bursa Castle: An ancient fortress located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
- Koza Han: A historic silk market, where visitors can shop for fine silk products and traditional crafts.
- Cumalıkızık Village: A well-preserved Ottoman village, known for its cobblestone streets and traditional Ottoman-style houses.
- Thermal Baths (Çekirge): Bursa is famous for its thermal spas, which have been in use since Roman times. Visit Çekirge to experience relaxing hot springs and therapeutic baths.
Getting Around
- Public Transportation:
Bursa has a well-developed bus and tram system that connects the city center to surrounding districts and key attractions. - Taxis & Ride-Sharing:
Taxis are available throughout the city, and apps like BiTaksi and Uber are also operational. - Bikes & Walking:
Bursa is a walkable city with pedestrian-friendly areas. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city, especially in the park areas or near the Uludağ mountain.
Local Cuisine
Bursa is famous for its traditional Turkish dishes, many of which have Ottoman influences. Some must-try dishes include:
- Iskender Kebab: A local specialty made from lamb served over pita bread, topped with yogurt, tomato sauce, and butter.
- Bursa Kebab: Another variant of kebab, marinated and grilled to perfection.
- Kemalpaşa Dessert: A sweet dessert made from fried dough, drenched in syrup and often served with cream.
- Cantık: A savory pastry filled with cheese or minced meat.
- Pide: A traditional Turkish flatbread often filled with cheese, spinach, ground meat, or egg.
Top Restaurants:
- Çıtır Usta: Famous for its Iskender Kebab and other traditional Bursa dishes.
- Köfteci Yusuf: Renowned for its delicious meatballs and grilled meats.
- Mavi Yalım: A great spot for local desserts and Turkish tea.
Shopping
- Bursa Grand Bazaar: Known for its local handicrafts, jewelry, silk products, and Turkish spices.
- Koza Han: A beautiful historic silk market, perfect for buying silk scarves and traditional Turkish goods.
- Bursa City Square: A modern shopping mall where you can find international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Nightlife
- Kulebar: A vibrant bar located in the city center, offering cocktails and live music.
- Bursa 1453 Café & Bar: A casual hangout spot with live music performances and a cozy atmosphere.
- Bursa Pub: A lively place to enjoy a drink, with local music and a fun vibe.
Day Trips from Bursa
- Uludağ National Park: Spend a day skiing or hiking on the mountain, or explore the park’s many trails.
- Cumalıkızık Village: Visit this historic village to experience traditional Ottoman architecture and peaceful streets.
- Mudanya: A charming coastal town offering beaches, fresh seafood, and a peaceful atmosphere.