20 Awesome Things to Do in Bursa (Green City)
Long time resident of Bursa, Turkey, here! I’m excited to share the beauty of this Bursa travel guide with you. If you’re ever in Turkey, Bursa is definitely a place to visit. From its rich history to its stunning landscapes, there’s so much to explore and enjoy.
bursa travel blog
Having travelled most of Turkey, I can confidently say that Bursa is one of the most beautiful cities in the country. It has everything from stunning mountains and coastline to rich history and delicious food. I have put together a great Bursa itinerary for you.
1) Step into the Bursa Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami)
A visit to the Grand Mosque as your first stop in Bursa would be a meaningful experience. Located in the heart of the city on Atatürk Street, this mosque is one of the most important historical and cultural landmarks of Bursa.
Construction of the Grand Mosque began in 1396 and it has the distinction of being the largest mosque in pre-Ottoman Bursa. It is one of the earliest examples of classical Ottoman mosque architecture and is famous for its 20 domes. The mosque’s calligraphy and inscription decorations, which reflect early Ottoman art, are of great artistic value”.
- After visiting the historic Bursa Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), take a leisurely stroll down Cumhuriyet Street to immerse yourself in the city’s rich commercial heritage. This pedestrian-friendly avenue is lined with shops and eateries and has a vibrant atmosphere.
- Zafer Plaza Shopping Mall : As you approach Cumhuriyet Street, you’ll notice a small triangular pyramid-shaped building. Beneath this seemingly small triangular building is a three-storey shopping mall. This shopping centre is called Zafer Plaza. You can explore this plaza and stroll through the shops.
2) Eat Tahini Pita Like the Locals in Bursa! (Tahanlı)
Tahini pita is a popular treat that can be found in almost any bakery in Turkey, but it’s special in Bursa. Locals here call it “Tahanlı” and it has become a signature dish of the city. In the morning, people in Bursa often enjoy a tahanlı with a cup of tea before starting their day. There’s a famous spot in the city known for its tahanlı, and you might find long lines of people waiting to get a taste. It’s definitely worth checking out!
Don’t forget to stop off at these places on your way to Tahinli Pita – they’re right on the route!
- Start walking from the Grand Mosque of Bursa 🕌🚶♂️: The Grand Mosque, or Ulu Camii, is a landmark in the heart of Bursa. Begin your journey here and take in the beauty of Ottoman architecture.
Check out the Grand Bazaar of Bursa 🛍️🧑🤝🧑 : Explore the lively Grand Bazaar, a historic market filled with shops, textiles, and local goods. A must-see while in Bursa!
Visit the Koza Han : Koza Han is a historical silk market where you can enjoy shopping or relax with a cup of tea in a beautiful setting.
You’ll take a 10-minute walk, passing through some of the beautiful streets of Bursa.
If you don’t want to walk for 10 minutes, you can take a bus from across the Bursa Grand Mosque and get off at the Demirtaspasa station stop
3) Take the Cable Car to Uludag Mountain!
Uludag Mountain in Bursa is one of Turkey’s most popular winter destinations, attracting thousands of visitors every year. A cable car ride is highly recommended when visiting Uludag Mountain. Once you reach the top, you’ll feel both mentally and psychologically relaxed thanks to the breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.
- Buses to Uludag leave from this stop in the city centre: Bus numbers S1, S2, 3/C, 15/A, 15/B
- If you arrived in Bursa by BUDO ferry from Istanbul, you can take the F3 bus and get off at the Teleferik stop
- Ticket Price : This is the ticket sales point for going to Bursa Uludag Mountain
- Quality and Budget Friendly Dining on Uludag Mountain: The restaurants of Bursa Metropolitan Municipality are the best places to enjoy a meal.
4) Get Lost in the Historic Streets of Bursa!
One of the best things to do when visiting Bursa is to explore its historic streets. Bursa is a city rich in history and was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Herae you’ll discover streets filled with the essence of history.
- Tophane and Cekirge Streets: Tophane is one of the oldest areas of Bursa, with streets full of historic buildings. Cekirge is famous for its old Ottoman houses and thermal baths.
- Cumalikizik Streets : Cumalikizik Village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village is one of the best-preserved Ottoman settlements, with cobbled streets and traditional Ottoman houses providing a fascinating glimpse into history.
- Around Bursa Castle: The streets around Bursa Castle offer stunning views of the city and are full of ancient architecture, providing a perfect blend of history and scenery.
5) Get a View of the City from the Bursa Clock Tower
Don’t miss the chance to get a breathtaking view of the city from the Bursa Clock Tower! Located in the heart of the city, this historic tower offers a panoramic view of Bursa’s beautiful landscapes, old streets and stunning architecture.
Places to visit around the Bursa Clock Tower
- Tombs of Osman and Orhan : These tombs are the final resting places of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire, and his son Orhan I, who expanded the empire. Located in Bursa, these historical sites are an important part of the city’s rich Ottoman heritage.
- Tophane Park: Located around Tophane, this park offers a peaceful environment perfect for a relaxing walk. You can enjoy the natural beauty and continue exploring the city.
6) Experience the Local Flavors of Bursa!
Turkish cuisine is truly remarkable, offering a wide variety of dishes and unique flavours. In Bursa, you can enjoy some of the finest traditional Turkish dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.
- Iskender Kebab: This famous dish is a true Bursa staple. It’s made with thinly sliced lamb or beef, served over pieces of pita bread and drenched in a rich tomato sauce, all topped off with melted butter and yogurt. It’s the
- Kestane Sekeri (Candied Chestnuts): Bursa is famous for its chestnuts, and one of the best ways to enjoy them is in the form of Kestane Sekeri. These sweet, soft chestnuts are covered in sugar and make a delicious snack, perfect to take home as a souvenir.
- Bursa Kemalpasa Dessert: Named after the town of Kemalpasa near Bursa, this sweet dessert is made from semolina and sugar syrup and is served cold. It’s rich and indulgent, often topped with crushed pistachios. A must for those with a sweet tooth!
- Cantik: Cantik is a type of pastry from Bursa, typically filled with minced meat. It has a bit of a Balkan feel to it, but when baked in the oven it becomes a delicious, crispy treat that’s simply irresistible.
- Pideli Kofte (Meatballs with Pita): Pideli Kofte ( Pita with meatballs) is a must-try dish that’s unique to Bursa. It features special Bursa meatballs served on top of a delicious pide bread, all topped with a flavorful sauce. It’s a local favorite and a true taste of the region—definitely something you shouldn’t miss!
- Historic Blue Shop Iskender 1867 : The birthplace of the Iskender kebab, this is one of Turkey’s most famous spots, with long queues of people waiting to get a taste of this iconic dish.
- Kafkas: When you think of Bursa, the first thing that comes to mind is Kestane şekeri (chestnut candy), and of course the best place to get it is in a shop called Kafkas.
- Uzan Et Steakhouse, Barbecue: One of the best steak and grill restaurants in Bursa. The food is amazing and the service is top notch! The atmosphere is fantastic, with a beautiful view to enjoy while you eat.
7) Immerse Yourself in History at the Bursa Archaeological Museum!
Bursa Archaeological Museum is like a history book. When you turn a page, you embark on an incredible journey through time, from the Roman Empire to the Ottoman era. Roman statues, artifacts from the Byzantine period and unique pieces from the Ottoman Empire… This is not just a museum of stones; there is a story in every corner.
- There are many artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine periods. For example, there are statues and sarcophagi, each telling the story of a different historical period.
- There are many items such as stone tools, bone artifacts, and traces of man’s earliest settlements that you can see here.
- Bursa, as you know, is the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire. The museum is filled with unique artifacts from this era. Seeing exquisite examples of Ottoman stone craftsmanship and miniature art will take you on a journey back in time to that period.
If you’re visiting the Bursa Archaeological Museum, there are several nearby attractions worth checking out:
- Ataturk House Museum: This is the home of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding leader of the Republic of Turkey, located in Bursa. It is a very important and historic building.
- Bursa Amusement Park: Bursa offers a wide variety of rides and attractions. You can have a good time here with plenty of entertainment for all ages.
- Resat Oyal Culture Park: Bursa is very close to the amusement park and is surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a great place to visit for a relaxing trip and to unwind.
8) Relax in the Healing Waters of Bursa's Thermal Baths
Turkish bath culture is deeply rooted in Turkey, and Bursa is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful baths in the country. Spending time in these baths, which symbolize Ottoman culture, is one of the best activities you can experience when visiting Bursa.
Best Baths in Bursa
- Kervansaray Thermal Hammam
- Bursa Historical Cekirge Sultan Hamam
- Marigold Termal & SPA Otel
9) Visit the Irgandı Bridge in Bursa and Explore the Vibrant Local Markets
Built in the 15th century, the Irgandı Bridge in Bursa is one of the most significant stone structures from the Ottoman era in Turkey. But what really fascinates me about this place isn’t just its history – it’s how the bridge has been transformed into a vibrant outdoor shopping street! As soon as you step onto the Irgandı Bridge, you’re surrounded by colorful little shops, handmade souvenirs, local jewelry, and unique works of art. On one side you have the echoes of the past and on the other you get a glimpse of modern Bursa.
The shops on Irgandı Bridge in Bursa are closed on Mondays, and some are closed on Sundays as well.
- On the other side of the Irgandı Bridge you will see Mahfel Cafe. I highly recommend that you stop by here. It is one of the oldest and most famous cafes in Bursa.
- There are also bars across from Irgandı Bridge where you can enjoy drinks like beer, etc.
10) Catch a Performance at Bursa's Ancient Theater!
Just beyond the Irgandı Bridge lies the historic Bursa Theater. One of the most awesome experiences in Bursa is attending a performance at this theater, which dates back to the 1900s. This stunning venue not only impresses with its architecture but also offers an atmosphere that will truly captivate you. While the plays are in Turkish, the powerful performances and intriguing stories transcend language, pulling you into the emotion and energy of the show.
- Tickets for performances at the Bursa State Theatre sell out quickly. If you’re planning to attend a show, be sure to buy your tickets in advance. You can easily buy them online.
- You can follow the plays of Bursa State Theater here.
11) Rent a bike in Botanical Park
As a bicycle enthusiast, whenever I visit a city, I wake up early in the morning, take a walk in the parks, and if I see a bicycle rental station on my way, I immediately rent a bicycle and enjoy a ride. Having lived in Bursa for many years, I can confidently say that Botanical Park is a perfect place to fulfill this need. Especially in the Nilufer district of Bursa, there are many bike rental stations thanks to the city’s efforts to promote cycling. Although Botanical Park is not under the jurisdiction of the Nilufer Municipality, there is still a bike rental area within the park itself. This is a fantastic way to explore the vast landscapes of the park on two wheels. In addition, the Bursa Zoo is located right next to the park. Personally, I’m not a fan of zoos, so I wouldn’t recommend it, but if you’re curious, you can check it out.
- There is a bike rental station within the Bursa Botanical Park, where you can even rent tandem bikes.
Bursa Botanical Park tends to be very crowded on weekends. It’s better to visit during the week if you can.
12) Visit Nilufer District!
The Nilufer district of Bursa is a more modern area developed after the historic center of the city. Most visitors to Bursa tend to focus on the historical sites, and while they’re definitely worth a visit, Nilufer is also a district worth exploring. In Nilufer, you’ll find upscale shopping malls, luxury stores, parks, and residential neighborhoods.
The Most Beautiful Places in Nilufer
- FSM Boulevard: It is one of the oldest and most popular areas of Nilufer. On FSM Boulevard you’ll find both busy shops and residential areas.
- Podyum Park: It is a shopping mall located in Nilufer, Bursa, with an open roof, and it serves as an entertainment center for the people of Nilufer. There is a large water park with slides at Podyumpark, but it is only open in the summer.
- Ozluce: It is one of the most modern and lively residential areas in Bursa. It is home to many cafes and residential buildings.
- Parkora: Parkora is a department store located in the Nilufer district of Bursa. It has a wide variety of cafes and bars inside.
Nilufer,Bursa is a large residential area with many neighborhoods. I highly recommend that you visit it when you come to Bursa.
13) Discover the Breathtaking Nature of Golyazi Village!
- Take a Boat Tour in Golyazi: The villagers take tourists around the lake in their small boats. The prices are very reasonable, around $3-4, and it’s a wonderful experience. Be sure to negotiate and get the price down!
- Take a Bike Tour in Golyazi: Cycling around Golyazi is an amazing activity. You’ll find many vendors offering bike rentals around the lake.
- Try the Fresh Lake Fish in Golyazi: Golyazi has some amazing fish restaurants! The locals have turned the roofs of their houses into restaurants where they serve freshly caught fish from the lake. And honestly, the fish is unbelievably delicious! Every time I visit Golyazi, I make sure to stop by the Gonul Sofrasi Restaurant, and I highly recommend you check it out as well. It’s definitely worth a visit!
14) Discover Greek Architecture in Trilye!
Trilye, a charming village in Bursa, is known for its stunning Greek architecture and peaceful coastal views. Stroll through narrow streets lined with colorful houses, visit historic churches and enjoy fresh local olive oil. Perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway with a rich cultural heritage.
- Trilye is a village located in the Mudanya district of Bursa, just 10 km away. The road between Mudanya and Trilye is winding, but offers breathtaking views along the way. Minibuses run every half hour from the center of Mudanya, making it easy to reach this charming destination in no time.
- In Trilye, start your day with a delicious breakfast at the Çamlı Coffee, especially early in the morning. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the local olives and olive oil, a true specialty of the region. If you’re in Trilye in the evening, enjoy a fresh seafood dinner and end your day on a perfect note by the sea.
- On your way back to Bursa from Trilye, be sure to stop at Altıntas Beach in the Güzelyalı district. While there aren’t many places to explore on the beach itself, the view is absolutely stunning. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a quiet moment and watch a beautiful sunset.
15) Discover the Hidden Beauty of Suuctu and Saitabat Waterfalls!
There are two stunning waterfalls in Bursa, and although they’re far apart, they’re both worth a visit. Suuctu and Saitabat waterfalls offer breathtaking views and an unforgettable natural experience. Even though they’re far away from each other, visiting both in one day is definitely worth the effort for nature lovers
16) Ride a Horse on Lake Kazancı Village!
After visiting the Saitabat waterfall, you can head to the village of Kazancı. Despite its name, the village is full of modern houses and has a truly charming atmosphere. Around the lake you’ll find horse farms where you can enjoy horseback riding. Kazancı Village is only a 25 minute drive from Saitabat Waterfall. If you’re using public transport, you can take bus number D17B from the Kestel route. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy nature and experience a peaceful, unique destination.
- I highly recommend eating at the Muhtarın Yeri restaurant in the village of Kazancı.
- You can visit the Tabiat Equestrian Centre to experience horse riding.
17) See the Historic Byzantine Fortresses in Iznik
Located in the province of Bursa, Iznik is one of Turkey’s most historic cities with roots dating back to the Byzantine era. Known for its ancient ruins, stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Iznik is home to the beautiful Lake Iznik, Byzantine churches adorned with mosaics and impressive city walls. The town is also famous for its traditional Iznik pottery. For lovers of history, culture and nature, Iznik is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Must-Do Activities During Your Visit to Iznik, Bursa
- Watch the sunset at Iznik Lake
- Visit Iznik Ancient City and villages
- Discover the stunning works of art created through traditional tile-making and try your hand at creating your own beautiful ceramics.
- Visit the Istanbul Kapi (Istanbul Gate) and Lefke Kapi ( Lefke Gate)
- Take a Boat Tour on the Lake
- Try the Lake Fish at Nihat’in Yeri Restaurant!
18) Visit Tofaş Museum!
Bursa is the number one city in Turkey’s automotive industry. It’s an advanced industrial city and is home to the Tofaş brand. Visiting the Tofaş museum and seeing cars from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s is truly a wonderful experience
19) Discover the history of Bursa in 360 degrees at the Panorama 1326 Museum
The Bursa Panorama 1326 Conquest Museum presents the pivotal moment when the Ottoman Empire was born with the conquest of Bursa, brought to life through stunning 360-degree visuals. This monumental event marked the first step in the expansion of the Empire. Offering a deep dive into history and culture, the museum provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the past. Blending in with Bursa’s rich historical fabric, it’s a must-see for history buffs. The ticket price for the panorama museum is 7 dollars.
20) Try Wakeboarding at Sukaypark!
Sukaypark, Turkey’s first cable wakeboarding facility, is a 100-acre sports and lifestyle center. With an island in the middle of the pond, walking and jogging paths, a children’s playground, restaurant, café, sportswear shop and a wakeboarding school, it offers a full range of amenities, making it a complete sports complex. If you’re in Bursa in the summer, Sukaypark is a must!
Bursa is truly an amazing city, both in terms of its history and the incredible places to visit. If you’re thinking about a day trip to Bursa from Istanbul, check out my guide. In this Bursa travel guide, I’ve tried to highlight some of the amazing things to do in the city. You can also find budget-friendly travel tips in my post on finding cheap flight tickets. Thank you for taking the time to read!
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