Bursa Uludag Tour from Istanbul – with Lunch & Cable Car

Travelers looking for a blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture will find this Bursa Uludag tour an appealing choice. For around $27, you get a well-rounded day trip that covers scenic mountain views, historic sites, and authentic Turkish experiences, all wrapped into a 12-hour journey from Istanbul.

What makes this tour stand out are its spectacular cable car ride, the opportunity to explore Uludag’s ski resort in winter, and visits to Bursa’s iconic landmarks like the historic plane tree and Yeil Mosque. We appreciate how it balances nature and culture, but travelers should be aware that the tour’s duration means a long day with several stops. This tour is best suited for those eager to see Bursa’s highlights without the hassle of planning transfers or tickets themselves.

Three things we love about this experience are the stunning panoramic views from Uludag’s cable car, the chance to sample local delights at Turkish delight and jam shops, and the opportunity to visit a historic bath turned souvenir shop. One consideration is that the guide’s explanations, according to some reviews, may be brief or unclear, so those craving detailed historical insights might want to supplement the experience independently. This trip is perfect for travelers who want a mix of scenery, culture, and local flavor in a single day.

Good To Know

• Value for money: At $27, this all-inclusive tour offers a lot of experiences packed into one day.
• Scenic cable car ride: The 20-25 minute journey provides breathtaking views of Bursa and Uludag.
• Diverse stops: From historic sites and local shops to outdoor activities, the itinerary is varied.
• Long but rewarding day: Expect a 12-hour trip, suitable for active travelers comfortable with a full schedule.
• Guided experience: A live English-speaking guide helps navigate the day, though some reviews mention brief explanations.
• Seasonal options: Winter travelers can enjoy skiing or snow activities, making it particularly appealing in colder months.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What You Can Expect on This Tour

Morning Pickup and Transfer from Istanbul

The day begins early, with hotel pick-up from either Beyolu or Fatih. The comfortable coach ride to Bursa lasts about two hours, crossing either the ferry or the Osmangazi Bridge. The journey itself is smooth and provides a chance to settle in before the day’s adventures.

First Stop: Turkish Delight and Jam Shops

Upon arrival in Bursa, your first taste of local culture involves visiting a Turkish delight shop. The shop offers free tastings of various delights, which range from traditional pistachio-filled treats to perhaps more exotic flavors. You’ll also have the chance to buy souvenirs. Next, a jam shop awaits, where organic jams can be sampled and purchased—ideal for taking home a tasty reminder of the trip.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After the initial tastings, a traditional Turkish lunch is served at a local eatery. While the menu isn’t specified, you can expect hearty, local dishes—perfect for fueling the rest of your busy day. The included soft drink complements the meal, and many travelers find the food both delicious and filling.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visit to the 638-Year-Old Plane Tree

Post-lunch, the tour moves to the historic plane tree, which has stood in Bursa for over six centuries. It’s a picturesque spot perfect for photos and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. A short break here allows you to stretch your legs and appreciate this living monument.

Journey Up to Uludag

Next, the excursion takes you by vehicle up to Uludag’s summit, famed as a winter sports hub but also stunning in summer. You’ll have approximately two hours to enjoy panoramic views, take photos, or try out winter sports like skiing or motor skiing if the season allows. The mountain’s landscape offers sweeping vistas that are well worth the visit.

Cable Car Ride

The highlight for many is the cable car ride from Uludag’s peak down into Bursa’s city center. Lasting about 20-25 minutes, this ride provides a bird’s-eye view of the city, the surrounding mountains, and lush forests. It is often described as breathtaking, with many visitors noting the sense of floating above the landscape.

Return to City Center and Cultural Highlights

Once back in Bursa, the tour visits a historical bath that has been converted into a souvenir shop. Here, you can browse and purchase unique gifts. Following this, you’ll explore Yeil Mosque and the nearby Yeil Tomb, significant sites that showcase Bursa’s religious and historical architecture. Reviewers have pointed out that these sites are worthwhile for their cultural significance and beautiful design.

End of the Day and Return to Istanbul

After a full day of sightseeing and culture, the group boards the coach for the return trip, arriving back in Istanbul in the evening. The hotel drop-offs mark the conclusion of this enriching day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This tour combines the best of outdoor scenery, cultural exploration, and local flavor for an affordable price. The inclusion of hotel pickup, ferry or bridge crossing, entrance fees, lunch, and cable car ride means you won’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics. The price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive day trip without sacrificing quality.

Several reviews mention the value, noting that the food, especially the delicious lunch, is sufficient and satisfying. The cable car and scenic views alone justify the trip for many, especially those eager to experience Uludag’s winter charm or summer panoramas.

The Experience of the Guides and the Day

According to some feedback, the guides are knowledgeable but may provide brief explanations of the sites, which could leave history buffs wanting more detail. However, they are friendly and helpful, ensuring the group stays coordinated throughout the day.

One traveler mentioned that their guide’s English was not very clear, so if language is a concern, it’s worth being patient. Still, the overall impression is that guides aim to make the experience enjoyable and smooth.

Seasonality and Activities

While the tour is suitable year-round, winter months are especially appealing for skiing and snow activities. The tour mentions motor skiing and other snow sports, which add extra fun during colder seasons. Summer visitors will enjoy lush green landscapes and mountain air, making this a flexible trip regardless of the season.

Something for Every Traveler

Whether you’re after scenic mountain views, cultural insights, or local delicacies, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. Active travelers will appreciate the outdoor and snow sports options, while culture lovers will enjoy the historic sites and unique shopping stops.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip from Istanbul to Bursa is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of Turkey’s diverse scenery and history without the hassle of planning. It’s suited for those comfortable with a long day of sightseeing, including some outdoor activities in winter or summer.

Families, couples, and solo adventurers can all find value here, especially if they enjoy scenic rides and cultural stops. Keep in mind that some reviews mention brief explanations, so if you prefer deeply narrated historical tours, you might want to supplement with your own research.

This tour provides great value, stunning views, and a taste of authentic Bursa life—perfect for travelers eager to see more of Turkey beyond Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 12 hours, from hotel pick-up to return in Istanbul, so be prepared for a full day of activities.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, ferry or bridge crossing, entrance fees for Uludağ, lunch with soft drinks, a live English-speaking guide, and the cable car ride.

Are winter sports available during this tour?
Yes, during winter months, travelers can enjoy skiing or motor skiing on Uludag. Equipment rentals are not included, so plan accordingly if you wish to ski.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but you’ll have about two hours at Uludag for free time, so you can choose to relax, take photos, or try out activities independently.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, families with active kids who are comfortable with long days and outdoor activities should find it manageable.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

This full-day Bursa tour from Istanbul offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Turkey’s natural beauty and history without the stress of organizing logistics yourself. Whether you’re after stunning mountain vistas, cultural landmarks, or a taste of local flavors, it’s a trip that promises a good mix of everything, all for a reasonable price.

You can check if your dates are available here: