Top-Rated Places & Things to Do in Bursa, Turkey

Bursa is a northwest Turkish town full of history, great scenery, and the beauty created by the Ottoman Empire. This is where East meets West.

Digging into history, participating in nature, and tasting local delicacies will be possible in this city.

Walking through Bursa’s streets could be a time machine. You’ll note the existence of the Grand Mosque and the Green Mosque, each having its story.

However, Bursa is not just about buildings. It’s also about mountains, thermal spas, and pulsating bazaars.

A visit to Uludağ National Park greets one with a sight of towering mountains. And the Iskender Kebab simply overflows Bursa with its food. This guide will help you discover the true spirit of Bursa, Turkey.

Bursa is a very historic city; it includes many historic buildings which reflect the essence of Ottoman architecture.

The most important representations of Ottoman culture and architecture are probably the Grand Mosque Bursa and the Green Mosque.

The Ulü Cami, better known as the Grand Mosque Bursa, is an impressively large and nicely designed mosque. It contains 20 domes and stupendous Islamic calligraphy. It is a significant place from both spiritual and historical points of view.

Alongside the mosque stands the Green Mosque or Yesil Mosque, which is equally impressive and beautiful with its marble and tile work. This mosque is an excellent example of early Ottoman architecture.

Bursa houses another well-known landmark—the Green Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The green tiles constitute the part that gives the site its name. The site, with gardens and a mosque, is a reflection of the Ottoman love for the incorporation of nature with architecture.

• Grand Mosque Bursa: The big prayer hall and calligraphy panels make it a wonder.
• Green Mosque: It is worth seeing how intricately the stone was carved and how skilfully the light and darkness were combined.
• Green Mausoleum: This creation combines art and history; this is where Sultan Mehmed I rests.
• Bursa Citadel and City Walls: See ancient fortifications that once protected the city from invasion.

The visit to these sites allows a privileged look into the heartbeat of Bursa. They are essential for all amateurs of Turkish and Ottoman architecture.

Bursa is a city full of cultural diversity. It offers a mix of traditional and modern tastes. The Iskender Kebab is a must-try. It’s famous in Turkey and comes from Bursa. It’s made with thinly sliced lamb, served on pita with tomato sauce and yogurt.

Bursa’s food scene goes beyond kebabs. The city has many dishes that show off Turkish cuisine’s variety. Here are some dishes you should try:

• Candied Chestnuts: A sweet treat from the local chestnut trees.
• İnegöl Köfte: Meatballs that are spiced and grilled to perfection.
• Şıra: A grape juice that’s perfect with Bursan’s savory dishes.

Visiting Bursa’s markets and street food stalls is a treat. You’ll learn about Turkish food’s range and depth. Each dish has a story of seasons, regions, and cultures.

The restaurants in Bursa are welcoming. Their aromas make every meal unforgettable. This is a key part of experiencing Bursa’s culture.

Ultimate relaxation in the Çekirge thermal area of Bursa: famous for its thermal springs in Bursa, both traditional Turkish hamams and modern spa facilities.

Ideal for refreshing body and mind. Bursa Thermal Springs are a source of natural healing.

The hot springs lie at the heart of the spa culture in this area. You can experience truly authentic holistic spa treatments in Bursa.

From the steamy Turkish hamams to the soothing thermal pools, the choice is yours for deep relaxation.

• Mineral-rich thermal water pools
• Aromatic Turkish bath treatments
• Luxurious spa treatments and massages
• Serene surroundings with breathtaking natural views

For a peaceful and luxurious experience, visit the  Çekirge thermal area. Enjoy top-notch spa treatments in a setting rich with history. It’s a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and luxury.

This shopping would start on a journey through the heart of Turkey, where Bursa Kapalı Çarşı and the famous Silk Market lie.

Shopping in Bursa is an indispensable activity for locals and visitors here.

• Bursa Grand Bazaar: Since the year 1340, this place has been loaded with Turkish textiles and local crafts. Its old architecture combined with the live vibe makes every visit unique.
• Silk Market (Koza Han): Famous for silks of high quality and very detailed fabrics. It’s just perfect to find something special to take home.

The Bursa Grand Bazaar and Silk Market are more than just a place that sells stuff; they offer a deep dive into Turkish culture with the surroundings of history and the smell of local food.

Looking to decorate your home with Turkish textiles or find unique gifts? Bursa’s markets are the place to be. They offer quality, variety, and a rich cultural experience, making Bursa’s shopping experience unforgettable.

Bursa is a city full of culture and nature. The Uludağ National Park is a key spot for outdoor fun. It’s perfect for hiking and enjoying the beauty of the Bursa countryside.

Hiking in Uludağ National Park is an adventure. You’ll see amazing views, like tall trees and hidden waterfalls. It’s great for everyone, from beginners to experienced hikers.

• Guided tours are available to teach you about the area’s plants and animals.
• Mountain biking and paragliding are for those who love excitement.
• In winter, the park is a top place for skiing with its great slopes and facilities.

Outdoor activities in Bursa are a chance to have fun and learn about nature. Visit Uludağ National Park and feel the energy of the Bursa countryside.

At the same time, the cultural heritage of Bursa allows immersion into its history and art.

Among the prominent museums is İznik Museum, which contains a rich collection of Turkish and Islamic art.

The village of Cumalıkızık is one of the integral parts of Bursa culture. This is an example of the classic Ottoman village, showing what life in those times could be like. I

t is something like a living, breathing museum that gives insight into rural life in the Ottoman Empire.

Those who are interested in Turkish history will find a great deal of attractions in the museums of Bursa—from items of old times to the Ottoman era.

Every museum possesses one piece of the history of Bursa that participates in the richness of the city itself.

• The İznik Museum stands out for its ceramics and pottery. It shows the town’s role in making ceramics. You’ll see beautiful pieces and learn about the technology used back then.
• Bursa City Museum also adds to the cultural journey. It shares Bursa’s history through different collections. It highlights important moments and people in the city’s past.

These places are key in keeping Bursa’s culture alive. They make the city a must-see for anyone who loves history and culture.

When the sun sets, the city of Bursa livens up.

There is a buzz of activities in the bars and cafes located in Zafer Plaza, while opposite to it, Turkish tea gardens offer an escape into serenity. Let’s have a look at some evening entertainments that Bursa does have to offer.

• Zafer Plaza acts as the core center for nightlife in Bursa. This is a place where natives and tourists combine to enjoy the nightlife of Bursa. You will get everything from live music to mouth-watering food. Zafer Plaza has everything from relaxation to dancing.
• Not far from the night scene, Turkish tea gardens offer a quiet retreat. You will be able to taste typical Turkish tea here in the traditional way. It is perfect for enjoying conversation or the beauty of the garden.

Immerse yourself in Bursa’s evening entertainment. From Zafer Plaza’s energy to the Turkish tea gardens’ calm, Bursa has something for everyone.

You can consider Bursa as a starting point for day trips and other beautiful as well as historic spots nearby.

Bursa is a key place in northwest Turkey; therefore, you may easily visit places like Cumalıkızık. A good guide of the city of Bursa helps one travel smoothly from Istanbul to Bursa and beyond.

Bursa is a place where you get to enjoy both culture and nature. You’ll be able to see ancient sites and beautiful landscapes.

Cumalıkızık gives us a glimpse into the beginnings of the Ottoman Empire, making it a great way to learn about history and tradition.

The journey from Istanbul to Bursa is scenic and easy, perfect for a short break out of the city. You can take either a ferry, bus, or drive, enjoying the views along the way.

Each place has its own special view of the region’s culture and nature. Day trips from Bursa are a must for any trip. From learning about Cumalıkızık to exploring Uludağ National Park, Bursa is more than a city. It’s a doorway to Turkey’s wonders.

During a trip planning to Bursa, you should also consider staying for at least two days.

This gives one ample time to move around without being in a rush. You shall know Bursa better concerning its culture and beauty.

Here are some Bursa travel tips that will make it even better:

• Choose accommodations in the city center to save time and money on travel. You will be in the vicinity of all main attractions and lively districts.
• Travel in one of the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for the best weather with fewer people. You might just find cheaper places to stay, too.
• Try the local food in small, family-run restaurants. It’s the best way to taste Bursa’s true flavors.

Getting advice can make your trip smoother. Here’s a look at different places to stay in Bursa. This helps you choose based on what you like and how much you want to spend:

By following these travel tips for Bursa and picking the right accommodations, your trip will be unforgettable. You’ll experience Bursa’s rich history and lively modern side.

A city tour in Bursa means entering a world of history, culture, and nature.

One should not miss a fine specimen of Ottoman design—the Grand Mosque or Ulu Camii, spiritual importance included.

The Green Tomb or Yeşil Türbe stands beside it, shining with tile work to tell stories about sultans from the city’s past.

The Silk Bazaar is colorful and contains local handicrafts and souvenirs, making it a great place for sightseeing and purchasing various gifts.

Yet, Bursa is not only about buildings. Uludağ offers fabulous views and is great for sports and treks.

If you want to slow down the pace, head to Cumalıkızık, a village showcasing Ottoman rural life. It’s perfect for walks and snapping pictures.

Planning your trip to Bursa may seem complicated, but with One Nation Travel, it will be a breeze.

They make it a point to show you the famous places, alongside hidden treasures. A journey full of history, culture, and adventure will surely make your travel worth remembering.