Bursa, Turkiye Travel Guide

Discover Bursa, Turkey's green paradise, where history, nature, and culture intertwine. Explore Ottoman heritage, thermal baths, vibrant markets, and scenic Mount Uludağ.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Uludağ, Bursa is a city that blends history, nature, and culture. Known as the 'Green Bursa' due to its lush parks and gardens, this city is a haven for those who love the outdoors. As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is rich in historical landmarks, including the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii) and the Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii), both showcasing exquisite Ottoman architecture. Beyond its historical treasures, Bursa is famous for its thermal baths and hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The city's vibrant markets, such as the Kozahan Silk Bazaar, offer a glimpse into its bustling commercial past and present. Don’t miss the chance to try İskender Kebab, a local culinary delight that will tantalize your taste buds. For nature enthusiasts, a trip to Mount Uludağ is a must. In winter, it transforms into a popular ski resort, while in summer, it offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. The city is also renowned for its cultural festivals and traditional crafts, making it a destination that offers a rich, immersive experience for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bursa.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds at popular sites like the Grand Mosque and the Green Mosque.
Try the local İskender Kebab at one of the traditional restaurants in Bursa for an authentic experience.
If visiting in winter, bring warm clothing and consider renting ski gear at Mount Uludağ.
Take a stroll through the historic Kozahan Silk Bazaar for unique souvenirs and a taste of local commerce.
Make time for a relaxing session in one of Bursa's famous thermal baths to rejuvenate after sightseeing.
Check the local calendar for cultural festivals and events to experience Bursa's vibrant traditions.

Neighbourhoods in Bursa

Osmangazi

Nilufer

Yildirim

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Bursa

Explore Bursa: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Bursa

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Bursa Grand Mosque

Discover the architectural splendor of Bursa Grand Mosque, a historical gem in Turkey that reflects Ottoman artistry and spiritual significance.

4.9

Koza Han

Explore Koza Han, a historic silk market in Bursa, where tradition meets vibrant commerce in a stunning architectural setting.

4.5

İnkaya Historical Plane Tree

Experience the beauty and history of the İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, an iconic landmark in Bursa that offers tranquility and cultural richness.

4.5

Uludag National Park

Experience the natural wonders of Uludağ National Park in Bursa, Turkey, where breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures await.

4.6

Best landmarks in Bursa

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Best Landmarks

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Grand Mosque of Bursa

Discover the Grand Mosque of Bursa, an architectural marvel and a cultural treasure steeped in Ottoman history and artistry.

4.9

Koza Han

Discover the rich heritage of Bursa at Koza Han, a historic silk bazaar offering exquisite silk products and a glimpse into traditional Turkish culture.

4.5

Tophane Clock Tower

Discover the Tophane Clock Tower, a historic gem in Bursa offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage.

4.7

İnkaya Historical Plane Tree

Discover the İnkaya Historical Plane Tree in Bursa, a magnificent 600-year-old natural monument that embodies history and serenity for every tourist.

4.4

Best restaurants in Bursa

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Uzan Et Mangal

Experience authentic Turkish flavors at Uzan Et Mangal - where exquisite grilled meats meet warm hospitality in Bursa.

4.7

Kebapçı Hüseyin Usta

Discover the authentic taste of Turkey at Kebapçı Hüseyin Usta in Bursa—where every bite tells a story.

4.4

Kadim Restaurant

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Kadim Restaurant in Bursa - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.2

Zennup1844 I Bursa

Experience the best of Turkish cuisine at Zennup1844 in Bursa – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.2

Best bars in Bursa

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Newcastle Pub

Experience the lively ambiance and delicious offerings at Newcastle Pub, a perfect spot for nightlife in Bursa.

4.3

High Out Dart Club

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of High Out Dart Club, Bursa’s premier pub for darts, drinks, and delightful social experiences.

4.5

Opus Live Bursa

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Opus Live Bursa, where unforgettable music meets exquisite dining in the heart of Nilüfer.

4.2

Labelle Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at Labelle Bar, a perfect blend of café and restaurant in the heart of Bursa.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Bursa

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Club Inferno Mania Bursa

Discover the energetic nightlife of Bursa at Club Inferno Mania, where electrifying music and vibrant atmospheres await.

4.0

Noche Club

Explore the electrifying nightlife at Noche Club in Bursa, where music and dance create unforgettable experiences every night.

4.0

Turistik Köşküm Night Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bursa at Turistik Köşküm Night Club, where music, dance, and local culture come alive every night.

3.8

Malt Restaurant

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Malt Restaurant, a premier night club in Bursa offering a unique blend of dining and entertainment.

3.9

Best shops in Bursa

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Sur Yapı Marka

Discover a shopping paradise at Sur Yapı Marka in Bursa, where retail therapy meets culinary delights and family fun.

4.4

Korupark Shopping Center

Discover a shopping oasis at Korupark Shopping Center in Bursa, where luxury meets leisure in an unforgettable retail experience.

4.4

Anatolium Alışveriş Merkezi

Discover Anatolium Alışveriş Merkezi, a vibrant shopping mall in Bursa offering a blend of fashion, dining, and family-friendly entertainment options.

4.3

Zafer Plaza

Discover Zafer Plaza, the ultimate shopping mall experience in Bursa with diverse stores, delightful dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.2

Explore Bursa on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bursa, mapped for you.

Bursa Essentials

Bursa is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airport is Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), located about 120 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus, a shuttle, or a taxi to Bursa. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Istanbul to Mudanya, a coastal town near Bursa, and then a bus or taxi to the city center. Bursa is also accessible by intercity buses from various cities in Turkey.
Bursa has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metro lines. The BursaKart is a rechargeable card that can be used on all forms of public transport. Taxis are also available and relatively inexpensive. For more flexibility, you can rent a car. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Walking is a great option within the city center, where many attractions are located.
The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Bursa, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange offices are also found in the city center and shopping malls.
Bursa is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it is advisable to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious of your surroundings. Neighborhoods like Yıldırım and Osmangazi have higher crime rates, particularly for petty crimes targeting tourists. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for medical emergencies, 155 for police, and 110 for fire services. Bursa has several hospitals and clinics that provide medical care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are plentiful and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. English-speaking staff might be limited, so it’s helpful to know some basic Turkish phrases or have a translation app handy.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head and shoulders when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Bursa like a local, visit the local markets such as the Koza Han for silk products and the Bursa Grand Bazaar for a variety of goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the historic Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque) and the Green Mosque. For a unique experience, take the cable car up to Mount Uludağ, which offers stunning views and is a popular spot for skiing in the winter.

When is the best time to visit Bursa?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bursa

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bursa. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerhaba
  [Mer-ha-ba]
- GoodbyeHoşça kal
  [Hosh-cha kal]
- YesEvet
  [Eh-vet]
- NoHayır
  [Ha-yur]
- Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [Loot-fen]
- Thank youTeşekkürler
  [Teh-shek-kuur-ler]
- Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [O-zur dee-leh-rim]
- How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [Na-sul-suh-nuhz]
- Fine. And you?İyiyim. Siz?
  [Ee-yee-yim. Siz?]
- Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [Ing-ee-leez-jeh ko-noo-shu-yor mus-unuz?]
- I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [An-lah-muh-yor-um]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Men-oo-yu gur-mek is-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]
- I don't eat meatEt yemem
  [Eht ye-mem]
- Cheers!Şerefe!
  [She-re-fe!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Uh-deh-mek is-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]
- Help!Yardım!
  [Yar-dum]
- Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [Oo-zak-lash]
- Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [Po-li-si a-ryun]
- Call a doctor!Doktor çağırın!
  [Dok-tor cha-ee-run]
- I'm lostKayboldum
  [Kai-bol-dum]
- I'm illHasta oldum
  [Has-ta ol-dum]
- I'd like to buy...Satın almamı istiyorum...
  [Sat-un al-ma-muh is-tee-yor-um]
- I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [Sah-deh-je ba-ku-yor-um]
- How much is it?Ne kadar?
  [Neh ka-dar]
- That's too expensiveÇok pahalı
  [Chok pa-ha-luh]
- Can you lower the price?Fiyatı indirebilir misiniz?
  [Fiyat-uh in-de-re-bi-leer mis-in-iz]
- What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [Sa-at kach]
- It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [Sa-at beer]
- Half past (10)On buçuk
  [On boo-chuk]
- MorningSabah
  [Sa-bah]
- AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [Oh-leh-den ah-sor-na]
- EveningAkşam
  [Ak-sham]
- YesterdayDün
  [Doon]
- TodayBugün
  [Boo-goon]
- TomorrowYarın
  [Ya-run]
- 1Bir
  [Beer]
- 2İki
  [Ee-kee]
- 3Üç
  [Ooch]
- 4Dört
  [Durt]
- 5Beş
  [Besh]
- 6Altı
  [Al-tuh]
- 7Yedi
  [Yeh-dee]
- 8Sekiz
  [Seh-keez]
- 9Dokuz
  [Do-kooz]
- 10On
  [On]
- Where's a/the...?.... nerede?
  [Neh-reh-deh]
- What's the address?Adres ne?
  [Ad-res neh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bana gösterebilir misiniz (haritada)?
  [Ba-na gur-ste-re-bi-leer mis-in-iz (ha-ree-ta-da)]
- When's the next (bus)?Bir sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [Beer son-rah-ki (o-to-boo-s) neh za-man]
- A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'e)
  [Beer bee-let (....'e)]

History of Bursa

Bursa, located in the northwestern part of Turkey, was founded by the Bithynians in the 3rd century BCE. It became a significant city under the rule of Prusias I, the King of Bithynia, who named it Prusa after himself. The city flourished due to its strategic location along the ancient Silk Road, serving as a crucial trade hub between the East and the West.
In 74 BCE, Bursa was incorporated into the Roman Empire and later became part of the Byzantine Empire. During this period, the city continued to thrive as a commercial center. It was known for its thermal baths and luxurious textiles, particularly silk, which were highly sought after across the empire.
Bursa holds a special place in Ottoman history as the first major capital of the burgeoning empire. In 1326, after a prolonged siege, Bursa was captured by Orhan Gazi, the second Ottoman sultan. The city then served as the empire’s capital until 1363, when the capital was moved to Edirne. During this period, Bursa saw the construction of many significant architectural and cultural landmarks, including the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) and the Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe).
The 15th and 16th centuries were a golden age for Bursa. As a major center of trade, culture, and industry, it became renowned for its silk production. The legendary Silk Road contributed to Bursa's wealth, making it one of the richest cities in the Ottoman Empire. Many of the city's iconic buildings, such as the Koza Han (Silk Bazaar) and the Emir Sultan Mosque, date back to this prosperous era.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bursa underwent significant modernization. The city was integrated into the national railway network, enhancing its role as a commercial hub. After the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Bursa continued to grow and develop, balancing its rich historical heritage with modern advancements in industry and technology.
Bursa is not just a historical city but also a cultural jewel. It is famous for its thermal baths, culinary delights such as İskender Kebab, and the annual International Bursa Festival. The city’s cultural scene is enriched by traditional crafts, including silk weaving and towel making, which continue to thrive. The rich blend of history and culture makes Bursa a living museum, offering a vivid glimpse into Turkey's past and present.