Things to do in Bursa

Are you in Istanbul and looking to take a trip to a nearby city? Here’s our top recommendation: a visit to the charming city of Bursa. We’re ready to help design the perfect trip for you. Let’s start by exploring what you can do in Bursa!

Bursa is located in the northwestern part of Turkey, approximately 150 km from Istanbul. With a population of over 3 million, it is the fourth-largest city in the country and plays a key role in Turkey’s industrial sector. Once the first capital of the Ottoman Empire (1335–1362), Bursa is renowned for its impressive Ottoman architecture, rich history, and natural beauty. Its proximity to Mount Uludağ also makes it a popular destination for winter skiing.

If you are interested in taking a trip to Bursa, here we can give you a list of things to do there.

1 – Discover the Stunning Ottoman Mosques of Bursa
As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is home to some of the most beautiful mosques in Turkey. Among the must-see landmarks are the Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque), Yeşil Camii (The Green Mosque), Emir Sultan Camii, and the Muradiye Külliyesi (Muradiye Complex). These architectural treasures are adorned with impressive Iznik tiles, crafted in the nearby town of Iznik, renowned for its rich tradition of tile-making. For history enthusiasts, these mosques and their surrounding tombs offer a glimpse into Bursa’s vibrant Ottoman heritage and are truly hidden gems.

2 – Visit Bursa Grand Bazaar – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Built by Ottoman Sultan Yildirim Beyazit in 1340, Bursa Grand Bazaar fascinates the visitors with its amazing architecture and bright colourful atmosphere. With its numerous spots inside to drink a refreshing glass of Turkish tea or coffee, the bazaar houses plenty of souvenirs to take home for your loved ones including textiles, clothing, jewelry, spices, Turkish sweets, handicrafts, and ceramics.

3 – Visit Cumalikizik – a great example of an Ottoman village
Founded in the first years of Ottoman Empire, around 1300, Cumalikizik still keeps its authentic architecture and heritage from its Ottoman time. Take a journey back in time and see these well preserved, centuries old style wooden houses. Beyond its historical significance, Cumalikizik is in the middle of natural beauty. The village is nestled against the backdrop of green hills, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

4 – Make sure to visit at least one of Bursa’s museums.
The city is home to a variety of both contemporary and historical museums, including the Bursa Archaeology Museum, Panorama Museum, Iznik Museum, and the City Museum. With its rich history and artistic heritage, Bursa offers captivating collections that span from the Byzantine era to the Ottoman period and modern Turkey.

5 – Take a cable car up to Mount Uludag
You can simply take the 9 km – cable car from Bursa and see this impressive mountain even if you are not planning to ski. Regardless of the season, this trip offers a great view of nature and many facilities including hotels, restaurants and coffee shops.

6 – Visit Yeni Kaplica, the historical thermal of the city
Bursa is one of the best spots for thermal healing. With its beautiful decorations on the ceiling, eight columns, and marble walls, this place is a must-see in Bursa. Since it was ordered to be constructed by Suleymen the Magnificent in 1522, this old establishment embodies the essence of traditional Turkish bathing culture.

7 – See Hacivat and Karagoz shadow theater
Hacivat and Karagoz are two iconic characters from Turkish shadow theater, a traditional form of performance that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. The tales of Hacivat and Karagöz are an essential part of Turkish cultural heritage and remain beloved figures in Turkish folklore. The characters are cast as silhouettes behind a white screen, with light shining from behind to create shadows. The puppets are typically made of leather and are manipulated to create the illusion of movement. The dialogue and actions between Hacivat and Karagoz are often comical and satirical, with themes ranging from daily life to social issues. This shadow theater is on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

8 – Visit Iznik (Nicaea), a town at the crossroads of cultures
Iznik is a town that has been home to numerous civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. During the Byzantine Empire, it was a vibrant center of commerce and the arts. In 325 AD, Iznik hosted the First Council of Nicaea, where 228 bishops from around the world gathered to discuss and establish key principles of Christianity. While in Iznik, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the medieval city walls, the Hagia Sophia Church (now a mosque), the Green Mosque, and the serene beauty of Lake Iznik.

9 – Try an Iskender Kebab in Bursa
One of Bursa’s most famous culinary contributions is the İskender kebab, a beloved Turkish dish made with thinly sliced lamb or beef, served over pieces of pita bread, topped with a rich tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt. This kebab is a must-try for food lovers visiting the city, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that reflect the region’s culinary tradition. What goes well to taste after an Iskender Kebab? Of course, a Kemal Pasa Dessert.

10 – End your Bursa trip with a Kemalpaşa dessert
Originally created in the town of Kemalpaşa in Bursa, this delicious treat has become popular throughout Turkey. It is made of eggs, yogurt, flavor, vanilia, and oil; sugar and lemon for its syrup. The dessert is typically served chilled and garnished with crushed pistachios or coconut flakes. Its rich, syrup-soaked texture and mild sweetness make it a beloved choice in Turkish cuisine, especially as a dessert to enjoy after a meal.

Contact our Turkey tours agency for your best daily trips or private tours to Bursa.