Bursa and Uludag Tour from Istanbul

When it comes to experiencing Turkey beyond the bustling streets of Istanbul, a trip to Bursa and Uludag offers a fantastic combination of history, nature, and local culture — all packed into a single day. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect: a well-organized, value-packed journey with plenty of highlights.

We love that this tour includes a scenic ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara, a visit to the historic city of Bursa, and a cable car adventure up Uludag Mountain. The fact that it offers a local guide, delicious lunch, and convenient hotel pickup makes it stand out as an accessible option for those short on time. One potential consideration might be the long travel time — around two hours by vehicle from Istanbul — but for many, the diverse experiences make it worthwhile.

This trip is ideal for travelers craving a taste of Turkey’s Ottoman past, mountain scenery, and authentic local flavors, all in one manageable package. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy a combination of sightseeing, nature, and leisurely exploration without the hassle of planning.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup, ferry, and air-conditioned vehicle
• Balanced itinerary blending historical sites, natural beauty, and fun activities
• Affordable price point offering excellent value for a full-day experience
• Stunning views from the cable car and scenic ferry crossings
• Knowledgeable guides providing insights into Bursa’s history and culture
• Flexible free time to explore, take photos, or enjoy optional activities like ATV safari

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenient Pickup and Transit

Starting your day around 8:30 am, the tour kicks off with hotel pickup on Istanbul’s European side. From there, the journey to Bursa involves a ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara. The ferry trip itself is a highlight — offering sweeping views of the Bosporus, the bridges connecting Asia and Europe, and the water glistening under the sun. One reviewer mentioned that “the view of the snow was so beautiful that we took many pictures,” which shows how the ferry can turn into a photo opportunity as well as a scenic passage.

Once across the Marmara, you’ll continue by an air-conditioned minivan to Bursa, a city that was once the Ottoman Empire’s first capital. The drive gives you a sense of transitioning from the modern metropolis of Istanbul to a place where history whispers from every corner.

Exploring Bursa’s Historic Heart

Arriving in Bursa, you’ll have about three hours to explore the city. While the schedule includes a visit to a historic site with a 600-year-old plane tree (a perfect spot for photos), the main highlight here is the city’s blend of old and new. Bursa’s streets are lively, lined with Ottoman-era architecture alongside modern shops and cafes.

A key stop is the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii), renowned for its exquisite green tiles and serene ambiance. The mosque isn’t just a place of worship; it houses a library and tombs, making it a significant cultural landmark. Reviewers have been impressed by its interior decor, describing it as “beautifully decorated with green tiles” that truly stand out.

Uludag Mountain and the Cable Car

After a hearty lunch at a local restaurant, the adventure continues with a visit to Uludag National Park. The highlight here is the cable car ride, which takes approximately an hour and offers sweeping mountain vistas. Several reviews mention how spectacular the views are, with one traveler remarking, “I was really lucky to have this experience for the first time in my life, and it was truly memorable.”

Aside from the cable car, there’s free time to stroll around or even try optional activities such as ATV safaris (available at extra cost). The mountain’s crisp air and natural beauty make it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenery.

Local Flavors and Unique Stops

Before heading back to Istanbul, the tour includes a visit to a place where you can see natural homemade jam and enjoy tasting some of Turkey’s beloved preserves. This is a sweet ending that many travelers have appreciated, given the chance to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Closing the Day in Bursa

The last stop is at the Green Mosque, after which the group boards the bus for the return journey to Istanbul, expected to arrive late at night. The return trip is a good opportunity to rest or reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: For just around $40.50 per person, this tour covers ferry rides, transportation, guided commentary, lunch, and multiple sightseeing stops. Reviewers have expressed satisfaction, describing it as “well done” and “worth the price” given the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Authentic Experiences: The inclusion of the ferry crossing, the cable car ride, and visits to historic sites means you get a well-rounded taste of Bursa’s culture, history, and natural beauty. One reviewer noted, “The guide was very caring and relevant,” which shows that knowledgeable guides are a key part of making this trip memorable.

Scenic Highlights: From panoramic mountain views on the cable car to the striking green tiles of the mosque, visuals are a major part of what makes this tour enjoyable. The ferry trip, in particular, offers a unique perspective of the Bosporus and the bridges connecting two continents.

Flexibility and Free Time: The tour wisely balances guided activities with free time for exploration or optional extras like ATV safaris — giving you some personal space amid the scheduled stops.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Timing: The tour starts early (8:30 am), so plan to be ready for pickup. The long day might be tiring but rewarding.
• Clothing: Dress comfortably, especially since you’ll be walking around historic sites and possibly spending time outdoors.
• Photo Opportunities: Bring your camera or smartphone, especially for the ferry views and mountain scenery.
• Optional Activities: If interested in ATV safaris or other extras, check if they are available at the Gemlik stop, and be prepared for extra costs.
• Group Size: The tour caps at 25 travelers, meaning it’s a manageable size for a more personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This Bursa and Uludag tour is a fantastic choice for anyone eager to see a different side of Turkey without needing to spend days traveling. It offers a well-balanced mix of history, nature, and local culture, all within a reasonable price. The inclusion of a ferry ride, scenic cable car, and guided commentary ensures you get a rich, memorable experience.

Perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, and mountain lovers alike, this tour delivers good value, authentic sights, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape from Istanbul’s hustle or want to dive into Turkey’s cultural and natural offerings, this trip ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am with hotel pickup, so plan to be ready by then.

Is the ferry ride included?
Yes, the ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara is part of the experience, passing by iconic bridges and offering scenic views.

How long is the drive from Istanbul to Bursa?
The drive takes about two hours by air-conditioned vehicle after the ferry crossing.

What can I expect at Uludag Mountain?
You’ll enjoy a scenic cable car ride towards Bursas city center, with free time to explore or participate in optional activities like ATV safaris.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is provided at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to taste authentic Turkish cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it flexible. However, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at the sites.

What’s the best way to prepare for the day?
Bring comfortable clothes, a camera, and some cash for optional extras. Be prepared for a full day of exploration and travel.

This tour wraps up a full day of discovering Turkey’s historic and scenic treasures — a perfect escape from Istanbul that combines cultural richness, stunning views, and authentic local flavors.