Full Day Guided Tour to Bursa and Uludag With Cable Car And Lunch

If you’re looking to get a taste of Turkey beyond Istanbul’s bustling streets, this full-day guided tour to Bursa and Uludag promises a mixture of culture, nature, and delicious food—all wrapped into one memorable trip. While I haven’t personally participated in this tour, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and overall setup give us a solid picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to visit Bursa, known as the “Green City”, explore Ottoman relics, take a scenic cable car ride, and enjoy a barbecue lunch on Uludag Mountain. Plus, options to add on activities like ATV riding or skiing make this a versatile choice. That said, the lunch quality seems to be a mixed experience, so keep that in mind if you’re a foodie.

This tour is best suited for those craving a balanced day of sightseeing, outdoor adventure, and cultural discovery—especially if you want a hassle-free way to see some of Turkey’s beautiful landscapes and historic sites. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer guided experiences and value the convenience of pickup and transport.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation including hotel pickup, ferry rides, and air-conditioned vehicles provide convenience.
• Cultural highlights like the mausoleums of Ottoman sultans and the Green Mosque deepen your understanding of Bursa’s heritage.
• Uludag Mountain offers scenic views and activities such as cable car rides and the chance to ski or enjoy the mountain environment.
• Food and shopping opportunities include Turkish delight, honey, and local treats, though the lunch might vary in quality.
• Duration and value: At 11 to 14 hours for just $75, it offers a packed day of activities, making it a good value for money.
• Limited reviews mean some aspects, like guide quality and meal experiences, might vary.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting Point: Izmit

Your day begins with a ferry ride over Izmit Bay. This part of the journey is a highlight, offering scenic views and a relaxing start to the adventure. One reviewer mentioned that the tour incorporated a ferry transfer that added a unique touch, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the waterside scenery before heading inland.

Inkaya Cinari and the Historical Plane Tree

Next, you’ll visit a honey shop and then the Inkaya Historical Plane Tree, over 610 years old. This stop is a quiet moment in the day, perfect for snapping photos and appreciating nature’s longevity. The honey shop showcases local honey, which many visitors enjoy purchasing, especially since the reviews mention the visit as a nice break in the schedule. One traveler noted the shop’s natural honey as a highlight, adding to the authentic feel of the trip.

Bursa and the Green Mosque

Arriving in Bursa, you’ll have time to explore Ottoman relics and the Green Mosque, renowned for its beautiful green tiles and peaceful ambiance. This provides a tangible connection to Turkey’s Ottoman past, appealing to history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. The Green Mosque and surrounding sites are described as peaceful, and the optional 30-minute ski time allows for some quick outdoor fun, especially in winter months.

Uludag Mountain and Lunch

The star of the day is Uludag Mountain, accessible via a cable car. The ride itself offers spectacular views—a favorite among travelers—and the chance to breathe in the mountain air. The included barbecue lunch at Uludag Mountain House Gökçeören is a highlight, although one review mentioned the venue and food quality as disappointing, so expectations should be tempered.

Optional Activities and Free Time

During the mountain visit, there’s time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and possibly ski if the weather permits. Some travelers have added on ATV tours or further mountain activities, making this part of the day flexible depending on your interests and the weather conditions.

Transportation and Logistics: Smooth and Stress-Free

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a significant plus for those staying in Istanbul. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the long drive. With a maximum group size of 100, it balances social atmosphere with manageable numbers, though some might find the group size on the larger side for a more intimate experience.

The timing is carefully scheduled, starting early at 7:30 am, to maximize daylight and sightseeing opportunities. The ferry transfer and cable car rides are included, adding to the overall convenience.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

From the single review available, the guides received praise for being pleasant and sharing good historical information, which enhances the overall experience. The mention of the tour being well-organized suggests that logistical details, like timings and transitions, mostly run smoothly.

Regarding food, the included lunch seems to be a mixed bag. One reviewer called it disappointing in both venue and quality, which might be a common experience in group tours where catering varies. However, the opportunity to browse local treats like Turkish delight and honey is a definite plus, giving you a chance to sample or purchase authentic Turkish sweets.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience works best for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that covers history, culture, and natural beauty without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for those who enjoy guided tours, as it provides insights and hassle-free transportation.

If you’re a budget-conscious traveler, the $75 price tag for such a full day, including transport, ferry, cable car, and lunch, offers good value. However, if you are very particular about food quality or prefer smaller, more intimate groups, some aspects might fall short.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sites, and local flavor, making it suitable for a wide audience. The opportunity to visit Bursa’s Ottoman relics, ride a cable car over Uludag, and sample Turkish delights makes for a well-rounded day.

While the lunch might not impress everyone, the overall value, especially when considering the included transport and activities, remains attractive. The flexible nature of the experience, with optional add-ons like ATV riding or skiing, adds to its appeal.

For travelers who want a convenient, guided introduction to Turkey’s inland treasures, this tour hits the mark. It’s a good way to see a different side of Turkey—beyond Istanbul’s busy streets—and discover a bit of Ottoman history, mountain scenery, and local sweets.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Istanbul hotel, making logistics hassle-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect an 11 to 14-hour day, starting at 7:30 am, with plenty of time to explore each stop.

What activities are available at Uludag Mountain?
You can take a cable car ride, enjoy the mountain views, and have the option to ski or add on ATV tours, depending on weather and availability.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a barbecue lunch on Uludag Mountain is included, though reviews suggest the quality may vary.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses like souvenirs or extra activities are not included, and optional add-ons like ATV riding cost extra.

What type of guide will I have?
An English-speaking guide will accompany you, sharing historical information and helping you navigate the day.

This tour offers a well-rounded day out, combining scenic views, cultural insight, and a taste of Turkish mountain life—ideal for those wanting an easy, engaging way to see more of Turkey.