Istanbul: Bursa & Uludag Tour with Lunch & Cable Car Option
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Reservations
History
Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century, is a city steeped in history, known for its pivotal role in the empire’s early development and its rich silk trade. Uludağ Mountain, often called the “Olympus of Mysia,” has been a sacred and recreational site since ancient times, now serving as Turkey’s premier ski destination and a hub for scenic exploration.
This day tour from Istanbul offers a deep dive into Bursa’s Ottoman heritage and Uludağ’s natural beauty, blending historical sites, cultural experiences, and optional outdoor adventures. From ancient mosques to traditional Turkish delights, this journey captures the essence of Turkey’s past and present.
Highlights
- Explore Bursa’s historic Green Mosque and Green Tomb
- Savor a mixed grill lunch with vibrant Turkish flavors
- Enjoy an optional cable car ride on Uludağ Mountain for stunning views
- Sample Turkish delight, honey, and jam at local producers
- Visit the 630-year-old Ancient Tree and Bursa’s Silk House
Full Description
Embark on a 13-hour day trip from Istanbul to Bursa and Uludağ Mountain, a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Your journey begins with an optional hotel pickup between 08:00 and 09:15 AM from various Istanbul hotels, followed by a scenic crossing of the Izmit Gulf via the Osmangazi Bridge or ferry. An optional stop in Yalova for an ATV Quad Safari adds an adventurous twist for those interested. Upon arriving in Bursa, visit a Turkish delight factory to sample and learn about this iconic sweet, followed by a stop at the 630-year-old Ancient Tree in Inkaya, a historic sycamore, and a Natural Home Made Jam Preserved House to taste traditional honey and jams.
Enjoy a delicious lunch of mixed grilled dishes with salad and a soft drink at a local restaurant, fueling you for the afternoon. Next, head to Uludağ Mountain, Turkey’s most popular ski center, where you’ll have free time to explore or try winter sports like skiing or motor skiing (equipment not included). Opt for the cable car ride (weather permitting, no refunds for weather-related cancellations) to the peak for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. In Bursa, explore the Green Mosque and Green Tomb, showcasing Ottoman architecture, and visit the Silk House to learn about the city’s historic silk trade. The tour concludes with a return to Istanbul, with timings subject to traffic and weather, dropping you off at your hotel or pickup point.
Guided by a local expert fluent in English or Arabic, this small-group or private tour offers skip-the-ticket-line access to Uludağ Mountain and a well-paced itinerary. With historical insights, culinary delights, and scenic wonders, this experience is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip from Istanbul.
Why Choose This Experience?
This Bursa and Uludağ tour combines the historical richness of the Ottoman Empire’s first capital with the natural splendor of Turkey’s premier ski destination. The optional cable car ride, authentic Turkish lunch, and visits to cultural sites make it a diverse and engaging day trip for history buffs, foodies, and adventure seekers.
With convenient pickup options, a knowledgeable guide, and included entrance fees, the tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience. Whether you’re marveling at Ottoman architecture or sampling local delicacies, this journey offers a perfect escape from Istanbul’s hustle.
What’s Included
- Optional pickup and drop-off from Istanbul hotels
- Ferry or Osmangazi Bridge crossing
- Entrance fee to Uludağ Mountain
- Lunch with mixed grilled dishes, salad, and a soft drink
- Local tour guide (English, Arabic)
- Cable car ride (if option selected)
Itinerary
- Optional pickup from Istanbul hotels between 08:00-09:15 AM
- Cross the Izmit Gulf via Osmangazi Bridge or ferry
- Optional stop in Yalova for ATV Quad Safari (if selected)
- Visit a Turkish delight factory in Bursa
- Explore the 630-year-old Ancient Tree in Inkaya
- Stop at a Natural Home Made Jam Preserved House
- Enjoy a mixed grill lunch with salad and a soft drink
- Visit Uludağ Mountain with free time for exploration or winter sports
- Optional cable car ride to Uludağ peak (weather permitting)
- Tour the Green Mosque, Green Tomb, and Silk House in Bursa
- Return to Istanbul with drop-off at your hotel
Pricing
From $29 per person
Meeting Point
Optional pickup is available from various hotels in Istanbul, with collection times between 08:00 and 09:15 AM depending on your hotel’s location. Be ready in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time, provided after booking. If not opting for pickup, meet at the designated departure point in Istanbul (details confirmed upon booking).
How to Get There
- Arrange optional pickup from your Istanbul hotel, if selected
- Be ready in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time (08:00-09:15 AM)
- Provide accurate hotel details during booking for seamless coordination
- If not using pickup, arrive at the designated departure point (confirmed after booking)
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Passport or ID card (copy accepted)
- Warm clothing for Uludağ Mountain
- Gloves
- Warm shoes for potential cold weather
- Cash for personal expenses or optional activities
Know Before You Go
- The cable car ride is weather-dependent; no refunds are provided if it’s halted due to weather
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Wear comfortable, warm clothing and shoes suitable for Uludağ’s mountain environment
- Winter sports equipment (e.g., skis) is not included; rentals may be available on-site
- The tour involves moderate walking; consider your mobility needs
- Traffic and weather may affect return timing to Istanbul
Reviews
- The tour was exceptional, with Mr. Timur organizing everything perfectly and providing clear explanations at each stop. The lunch was delicious, and the cable car ride offered stunning views. Highly recommend this day trip!
- Our driver was hilarious and friendly from the start, and our guide Mahmud was fantastic with deep knowledge of Bursa’s history. The entire experience was amazing, despite the long day. Worth every penny!
- Everything ran smoothly and on time, making for a great experience. The historical sites, food, and Uludağ’s scenery were unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour for a perfect day out of Istanbul!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What does the Bursa and Uludağ tour include, and what sites are visited?
This 13-hour tour includes optional hotel pickup and drop-off from Istanbul, a ferry or Osmangazi Bridge crossing, entrance to Uludağ Mountain, a mixed grill lunch with a soft drink, and a local guide (English or Arabic). You’ll visit a Turkish delight factory, the 630-year-old Ancient Tree, a jam and honey house, the Green Mosque, Green Tomb, Silk House, and Uludağ Mountain with an optional cable car ride. An optional ATV Quad Safari in Yalova may be included if selected. The tour offers a rich mix of Ottoman history, local flavors, and scenic beauty.
How does the pickup and drop-off process work for this tour?
Optional pickup is available from various Istanbul hotels between 08:00 and 09:15 AM, with times confirmed after booking based on your hotel’s location. Be ready in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time, ensuring accurate hotel details are provided for seamless coordination. The return drop-off brings you back to your hotel, though timing may vary due to traffic or weather. If not using pickup, meet at the designated departure point in Istanbul (details provided upon booking). The process ensures convenience and punctuality.
What is the cable car ride like, and what happens if it’s canceled?
The optional cable car ride on Uludağ Mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, taking you from the base to the peak (weather permitting). It’s a highlight for enjoying the mountain’s scenic beauty, especially in winter. If the cable car is halted due to weather conditions, no refunds are provided, but you’ll still have free time to explore Uludağ or try winter sports like skiing (equipment not included). Bring warm clothing, gloves, and shoes for comfort. The tour remains enjoyable regardless, with plenty of other activities included.
What is the cancellation policy for this tour?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change. Contact the operator through the booking platform or provided details to process your cancellation. The “reserve now, pay later” option allows you to secure your spot without upfront payment, adding convenience. This policy ensures peace of mind for travelers with uncertain schedules. Always review your booking confirmation for specific instructions to ensure a smooth cancellation process.
Are there opportunities for additional activities, and what should I prepare for?
The tour includes an optional ATV Quad Safari in Yalova for an adventurous add-on (if selected) and free time on Uludağ Mountain for winter sports like skiing or motor skiing (equipment not included). Bring warm clothing, gloves, and shoes for Uludağ’s mountain environment, as well as cash for rentals or personal expenses. The tour involves moderate walking at historical sites, so comfortable shoes are advised. Inform the operator of any preferences (e.g., ATV option) when booking to tailor your experience. The diverse itinerary ensures a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
