Istanbul: Bursa & Uludag Tour with Lunch & Cable Car Option

Planning a day trip from Istanbul that combines history, nature, and a bit of adventure? This tour to Bursa and Uludag offers just that—and it’s an excellent choice for those who want a well-rounded experience without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics themselves. With a mix of cultural sights, scenic views, and local flavors, it promises a memorable day for travelers looking for authenticity on a budget.

Three things we really like about this tour are the knowledgeable guides (many reviews highlight guides like Ali and Noori), the stunning vistas from Uludag (especially if you opt for the cable car or chairlift), and the chance to indulge in traditional Turkish treats such as Turkish delight, honey, and jam. While the trip packs in a lot, be mindful that it involves long hours on the road—so patience and comfy shoes are a must.

A potential consideration is the distance to Bursa, which means several hours in the coach. If you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer shorter excursions, this might feel like quite a day. However, for those eager to see a different side of Turkey with minimal planning, this tour offers excellent value and a taste of authentic culture and natural beauty.

This tour is perfect for cultural enthusiasts, adventure lovers, or anyone who wants to experience Turkey beyond Istanbul’s bustling streets. It suits travelers who enjoy guided trips, local food, and scenic landscapes but are prepared for a full day of exploration.

Good To Know

• Incredible Views: From Uludag’s snow-capped peaks to the cable car ride, scenery is a highlight.
• Cultural Stops: Visit the Green Mosque, Green Tomb, and a Turkish delight shop for a taste of Bursa’s history and flavors.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy a delicious mixed grill lunch with soft drinks and sample traditional Turkish sweets.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ali and Noori are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day more engaging.
• Flexibility: Optional activities like the cable car and chairlift add a personalized touch.
• Long Day, Great Value: Despite the long hours, the price reflects an all-inclusive experience packed with sights and tastes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The day kicks off early, with pickup between 8:00 and 9:15 AM from various hotels in Istanbul. This flexibility helps accommodate different locations, but it also means some guests might be on the coach for a good stretch—be prepared for a roughly 3-hour journey to Bursa, crossing either the Osmangazi Bridge or via ferry. Many reviews mention that the long coach ride is worth it, especially after experiencing the sights and scenery.

The first stop is usually at a Turkish delight shop—a true treat for sweet tooths eager to sample flavors like honey, jam, and various confections. Reviewers note that this is more of a shop than a factory, but sampling delicious Turkish delights is still part of the fun. Afterwards, you’ll visit the Ancient Tree in Inkaya, a massive sycamore over 630 years old—an impressive natural monument that provides a peaceful pause in the trip.

Next, a visit to a Natural Homemade Jam Preserved House offers a taste of local products, giving insight into traditional Turkish preservation methods. Then, it’s time for a hearty lunch—a mix of grilled meats and salads, accompanied by soft drinks. Reviewers find the food to be satisfying and a highlight of the trip, with some noting the bread and local flavors as particular standouts.

The afternoon is dedicated to Uludağ Mountain, Turkey’s premier ski destination. Here, you’ll have free time to explore, with the option to ride the chairlift to the peak or take the cable car down to Bursa’s city center. Many reviews emphasize how breathtaking the views are from the mountain, especially if you visit on a clear or snowy day—some even describe the snow as “magical.”

In Bursa itself, you’ll visit iconic historical sites such as the Green Mosque and Green Tomb, both renowned for their intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance. The tour concludes with the return journey to Istanbul, often around 7:00 or 8:00 PM, depending on traffic.

The Value of This Experience

At just $29 per person, this tour offers substantial value. It includes pickup, ferry or bridge crossing, entrance fees, a full meal, and guide services. The optional cable car ride adds a memorable element, offering sweeping views over the landscape. A lot of reviewers highlight how well-organized and comprehensive the trip is for the price—many find it a good way to see diverse highlights of Bursa and Uludağ without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

Highlights of the Tour

Green Mosque and Green Tomb

These are central symbols of Bursa’s Ottoman heritage. The Green Mosque, with its stunning green tiles and delicate calligraphy, is a must-see. Reviewers like Gabriela mention the architecture and interior design as highlights, making it clear that these sites are both beautiful and historically significant.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Uludağ Mountain and Scenic Views

Uludağ offers jaw-dropping scenery, particularly if the weather is clear or snowy. Many travelers rave about the chairlift (if they opt for it), describing it as “100% worth it” and “magical,” especially when snow is falling heavily. The cable car, weather-dependent, provides a smooth transition from mountain peaks to the city—though some reviews note it was closed due to weather, which is something to keep in mind.

Local Flavors and Souvenirs

Sampling Turkish delights, honey, and jams was a definite highlight for many, with reviews mentioning how delicious and authentic these products are. Some guests appreciated the chance to buy quality souvenirs directly from local producers, adding a tangible memory of the trip.

Guides and Transportation

Reviewers frequently praise guides like Ali, Noori, and others for their friendly, informative approach. They often go out of their way to ensure guests feel comfortable and entertained. The coach itself is comfortable, and the long ride is made more pleasant by driver skills and helpful commentary.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Dress warmly: Even in spring or fall, mountain weather can be cold, especially if snow is falling. Bring gloves and warm shoes.
• Arrive early: To maximize your time at Uludağ or the Green sites, be sure to be ready for pickup on time.
• Consider the optional activities: The cable car or chairlift add a special touch. If you’re a fan of scenic rides, it’s worth paying a little extra.
• Pace yourself: The tour covers a lot in one day. Take breaks and stay hydrated.
• Manage expectations: The Turkish delight factory is more of a shop visit, not a manufacturing site, but sampling is still delightful.

Reviews and Authentic Insights

One reviewer, Annie, summed up her experience well, highlighting how the trip felt “really packed” but still worthwhile, especially the Uludağ ascent. She mentioned a “hilarious coach driver” and a guide who made the long day enjoyable, underpinning the importance of good company and local expertise. Gabriela praised the guide Ali as “thoughtful and helpful,” emphasizing how much having a knowledgeable guide can enhance the trip.

Several reviews note the long travel hours—some mention being on the coach for a significant part of the day—but most agree that the sights, food, and scenery compensate for this. The snow at Uludağ, particularly during winter months, is often described as “magical,” and the panoramic views from the cable car or chairlift are frequently cited as unforgettable.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a balanced, value-packed way to experience Bursa and Uludağ, especially if you’re short on time but want to see a different side of Turkey. It’s a trip designed for those who enjoy cultural exploration combined with scenic beauty, delicious local food, and guided commentary from friendly, knowledgeable guides.

While it involves a good deal of travel and a full day’s commitment, the variety of stops and activities make it worthwhile. The optional cable car or chairlift elevates the experience—literally—and offers some of the best views you’ll get outside of winter resorts.

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized day trip that mixes history, nature, and authentic flavors, this tour is a solid choice—especially for those eager to tick off Bursa’s key sights without the stress of doing it solo.

How long is the travel time from Istanbul to Bursa?
The coach journey typically takes about 3 hours, crossing either the Osmangazi Bridge or via ferry, depending on the route chosen.

Is the cable car ride included in the tour price?
It depends on the option selected. The cable car ride from Uludağ to Bursa is an available add-on, and many reviews mention it as a highlight of the trip.

What should I bring for this tour?
Warm clothing, gloves, and warm shoes are recommended, especially if snow or cold weather is expected on Uludağ.

Can I skip activities like the jam house or Turkish delight shop?
Yes, the tour is flexible, but some stops are part of the standard itinerary. However, reviews note that some guests chose to skip certain stops and still enjoyed the overall experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch featuring grilled dishes with salad and a soft drink, often praised for its flavor and quantity.

Is this tour suitable for small groups or private bookings?
Yes, small groups and private options are available, making it ideal for a more personalized experience or families.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Bursa and Uludağ without fuss, offering a great mix of scenic views, cultural sights, and local flavors—perfect for curious travelers eager to explore beyond Istanbul.

You can check if your dates are available here: