Bursa
The first Ottoman capital: silk, hot springs and Mount Uludağ.
About Bursa
Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and has kept a historical and cultural wealth that makes it a must for anyone who wants to understand the origins of the empire that ruled over three continents for six centuries.
Founded as Prusa by King Prusias I of Bithynia in 185 BC, the city enjoyed its golden age as the Ottoman capital between 1326 and 1365. The mosques, mausoleums and markets of that period are admirably well preserved. The Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), with its 20 domes and indoor fountain, is one of the masterpieces of early Islamic art.
Bursa is also famous for its hot springs in the Çekirge district, for its silk (with a historic bazaar devoted to the silk trade) and for being the birthplace of İskender kebab, one of the most iconic Turkish dishes. The cable car up Mount Uludağ, Türkiye's most popular ski resort, offers spectacular panoramic views over the city and the Bursa plain.
What to See in Bursa
Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii)
A masterpiece of early Ottoman architecture, built in 1399 by Sultan Bayezid I. Its 20 domes cover a vast prayer hall with a central ablution fountain lit by an oculus. The walls are decorated with beautiful Islamic calligraphy.
Read more about Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii)Silk Bazaar (Koza Han)
A 15th-century caravanserai where silk from the Silk Road was traded. Today it keeps its original structure, with a central garden courtyard and dozens of shops selling pure silk products: scarves, fabrics, cushions and dresses.
Read more about Silk Bazaar (Koza Han)Royal Ottoman Tombs
The mausoleums of the first Ottoman sultans, Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi, stand in a park with panoramic views over the city. They are a place of pilgrimage and mark the birth of a dynasty that would rule for 600 years.
Çekirge Hot Springs
A spa district where mineral waters gush out at temperatures of up to 78°C. Historic baths such as Eski Kaplıca (14th century) and Yeni Kaplıca offer the traditional Turkish hammam experience with natural thermal waters rich in sulphur and minerals.
Mount Uludağ Cable Car
The longest cable car in Türkiye links Bursa with Uludağ National Park (2,543 m). In winter it's the country's most popular ski resort. In summer it offers hiking through pine forests, with views of the Sea of Marmara on clear days.
Cumalıkızık
An Ottoman village listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, 10 km from Bursa. Its 700-year-old wood-and-stone houses, cobbled lanes and orchards offer a journey back in time. It's famous for its village breakfast served at outdoor tables.
Must-See Places
Food in Bursa
Bursa is the food capital of north-western Türkiye. İskender kebab, invented here in 1867 by İskender Efendi, is the emblematic dish: thin slices of döner on pide bread, drenched in melted butter and tomato sauce and served with yoghurt. Two historic restaurants, Kebapçı İskender and Kebapçı Uludağ, compete for the honour of the original recipe.
Other essentials: İnegöl köfte (spiced meatballs from nearby İnegöl), cantık (fried pastries with meat or cheese), keşkek (wheat with shredded lamb) and candied chestnuts (kestane şekeri), Bursa's signature sweet. For breakfast, a serpme kahvaltı in Cumalıkızık is a memorable experience.
Practical Tips
- Bursa makes an ideal day trip from Istanbul, but 2 days let you enjoy the hot springs and Cumalıkızık without rushing.
- If you travel by ferry and bus, the whole journey from Istanbul takes about 2.5 hours and is very comfortable.
- Visit the Silk Bazaar (Koza Han) on a weekday to avoid the crowds; Saturdays are lively but busier.
- İskender kebab is best at lunchtime, freshly made. Avoid the tourist restaurants and head for the historic ones.
- The Uludağ cable car can have queues at weekends: go early or on a weekday.
Getting There
Bursa lies about 150 km south of Istanbul, across the Sea of Marmara. The fastest route is the IDO fast ferry from Yenikapı (Istanbul) to Mudanya/Güzelyalı (1 h 45 min), then a bus or taxi to central Bursa (30 min).
You can also take the ferry to Yalova (shorter, 1 h) and then a bus to Bursa (1 h). Intercity buses from Istanbul's bus station take about 3.5 hours.
On the private tours I organise, Bursa combines perfectly with Istanbul or as a stop on the way to the Aegean coast, with private door-to-door transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bursa
How many days do I need to visit Bursa?
I recommend spending at least 2 days in Bursa so you can see the main sights at a relaxed pace. If you have more time, you can combine it with nearby destinations to make the most of your trip.
When is the best time to visit Bursa?
The best time to visit Bursa is April to June, September to November. That said, every season has its charm, and Türkiye is a destination you can enjoy all year round.
Can I visit Bursa with an English-speaking guide?
Yes. As a licensed, English-speaking tour guide in Türkiye, I organise private tours and day tours in Bursa. Every itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
How do I get to Bursa from Istanbul?
Depending on the destination, you can get there by domestic flight (1–1.5 h), by coach or by private car. On the tours I organise, transport is included and planned to make the most of your sightseeing time.
Can I include Bursa in a longer tour of Türkiye?
Of course. Bursa combines easily with other destinations in Türkiye. I design tailor-made itineraries of 7, 10, 12 or 15 days that include this and other fascinating places.
Want to visit Bursa with a licensed, English-speaking guide? Book your private guide in Türkiye and we'll plan the itinerary together.
Read More about Bursa
Guides, tips and stories to help you plan your visit.
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