25 Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bursa

25 Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bursa, Turkey

Merhaba and welcome to! I’ve lived in Bursa for almost 20 years and consider myself a local. I’ve travelled all over Turkey and I can honestly say that Bursa is one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

I would like to share with you the most important things you need to know before traveling to Bursa today.

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How to Get from Istanbul to Bursa (Your Easy Travel Guide)
Hiking to the Summit of Uludağ Mountain: A Challenging Adventure
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1) Start Your Day Early in the Morning!

Bursa is the 4th largest city in Turkey, located just 2 hours from Istanbul and 4.5 hours from Ankara by road. There’s plenty to see and do here, especially on weekends when the city attracts a large number of tourists eager to explore its rich history and vibrant culture. If you want to capture stunning photos in the historic streets of Bursa and enjoy the views at a relaxed pace, starting your day early is key.

The busiest area in Bursa is the city center. Around noon, tour buses flood the city and you’ll see a lot of tourists. If you want to avoid the crowds, I’d recommend visiting the Tophane district early in the morning. This area is the most popular with tourists, and here you’ll find Bursa’s historic Clock Tower, the tombs of the founders of the Ottoman Empire (Osman and Orhan Tombs), and stunning views of the city. After exploring Tophane, you can head to the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii). If you visit this area later in the day, be prepared for heavy crowds.

Around the Bursa Clock Tower, you’ll find free Wi-Fi service provided by Bursa Metropolitan Municipality.

I tried to take this picture there, but it was so crowded that I couldn’t get the shot.

I took these photos when I was there. You can scan this QR codes to get more information about the place before you visit.

2) Be Prepared for Bursa’s Weather

Bursa Weather

Bursa has a generally mild climate, but it’s important to note when exploring the city that the weather can vary depending on the area. For example, in the northern parts near the Sea of Marmara, the weather is usually soft and mild – not too hot. But in the south, near Uludag mountain, things are different. It can get quite cold, especially in the winter months. The hottest months are from July to September, and it can get quite muggy during this time, but for those who love the heat, it’s perfect! The coldest months are February and March, so you’ll definitely want to bundle up.

Also, if you’re planning to take the ferry from Istanbul to Bursa, try to pick a day when the weather is calm. Ferries are often cancelled due to high winds, so it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan ahead.

3) Visit the Tourist Information Centers!

When you visit Bursa, make sure you know where the tourist information centers are and stop by one. You can ask them anything you need to know. Bursa Metropolitan Municipality takes great pride in helping tourists, so take advantage of this service. There are four tourist information centers in Bursa, and I’ll give you their locations below.

4) Bursa’s Public Transportation System

I wouldn’t really recommend taking a taxi in Bursa. As of 2025, there’s no shared transportation system in Turkey, and Uber has been banned. There is an app called Marti Tag, but although many people use it, it’s still not legal. I’d recommend avoiding it for safety reasons.

The most common public transportation in Bursa is the Metro and Buses. You’ll also find trams that go to specific locations in the city center. My recommendation is to buy a Bursa Card. You can buy it at kiosks and it works for both the metro and buses, which makes it super convenient. These public transportation options will take you to all the major tourist attractions.

If you don’t want to buy a Bursa Card, you can use your contactless credit card on the touch screen device. Both options work seamlessly to access public transportation in Bursa.

If you’re taking the metro, get off at ”SEHREKUSTU” station to reach the city center. If you’re taking a bus, get off at the Ulucamii (Grand Mosque) stop, which is very close to the city center. There are also “taxis” – they look like taxis but are actually like taxis that go short distances in the city center. Turkish people says ”Dolmuş Taksi” these are a cheap and easy way to get around. These affordable taxi-like cars are usually white and have a sign on top with the names of several locations.

So getting around Bursa is pretty straightforward and budget friendly. Using public transportation makes it super easy to visit all the tourist spots and more!

5) Getting from Istanbul to Bursa? Easy and Fast

Getting from Istanbul to Bursa is super easy and quick – it usually takes about 2 hours. You can get there by car, bus, ferry or even by plane. But honestly, the best and most enjoyable way to get to Bursa is by ferry. It’s quick, and you get some pretty great views along the way.

There are two main ferry companies operating between Istanbul and Bursa: IDO and BUDO (12 dollars) Both run regular services from Istanbul to Bursa. As soon as you arrive at the ferry terminal in Bursa, you’ll see minibuses and buses waiting for you. The minibuses don’t go as far as the city centre, but will take you to the metro station. If you’re going to the city centre, buses are the best option. Minibuses cost about $1.5 and buses cost about $1. There are also BBUS buses from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Bursa that run 24 hours a day and leave every 30 minutes. (Note that prices can change slightly due to inflation in Turkey, so they may vary).

6) Find Accommodation in Trusted Destinations!

When you visit Bursa, you’ll probably spend a lot of time exploring the city’s historic center, as it’s home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks and cultural sites. However, while staying close to the city center may seem like a great idea, there are some important things to keep in mind. The city center is quite old, and some neighborhoods may not be the safest. Therefore, instead of choosing accommodation in the heart of the city, I highly recommend staying in Nilufer, a more modern and safer part of Bursa. Nilufer has excellent transportation links, making it easy to get to the city center. With frequent bus services and the metro, you can quickly reach the main attractions. This way, you’ll not only be in a safer area, but you’ll also have easy access to all of Bursa’s historical and cultural treasures.

Nilufer is a large district in Bursa, and finding accommodation here can sometimes be a bit challenging. For a more comfortable stay, I recommend areas like Besevler, Ataevler, FSM Boulevard, 23 Nisan, and Ozluce. You can look into daily rental apartments in these neighborhoods. When researching, make sure to choose places with high ratings and positive reviews. I would suggest avoiding the Gorukle area. While you may find lower prices there, Gorukle is home to a university, and the area is mostly populated by students. The accommodation options there might not be the best for your health and well-being, though of course, it’s entirely up to you. Just keep this in mind when making your decision.

7) ATMs in Turkey Charge Fees, Cash is King!

Turkey’s currency is the Turkish Lira Since the pandemic, many countries, including Turkey, have faced ongoing economic difficulties. As of 2025, Turkey is experiencing high inflation, which affects daily life. When visiting Turkey, don’t be surprised if you encounter long lines at ATMs, and be wary of potential ATM scams. While this can happen in any country, the current high inflation in Turkey makes these problems more common.

When using ATMs, you may be charged high transaction fees by the banks. You definitely don’t want to waste the money you’ve saved for your trip on hefty ATM fees. I recommend always carrying cash – cash is king. The good news is that credit cards are widely accepted in most places in Turkey, so you won’t have any trouble using them to make purchases. Just make sure you have a mix of cash and cards to make your trip more convenient and secure.

8) SIM Cards Are Expensive in Turkey

Sim Card Turkey

In Turkey, there are three main mobile network providers: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom.

Turkcell offers the widest coverage and the fastest speeds, but its prices are higher compared to the others.
Turk Telekom is a more budget-friendly option, often offering promotions, but it tends to be a bit slower than Turkcell.
Vodafone is a middle-ground option in terms of both price and speed.

If you prefer using an eSIM, popular providers include Airalo, Nomad, and Maya. These companies partner with local mobile operators (like Turkcell or Turk Telekom) to provide service.

In Turkey, tourists generally don’t have access to extensive SIM card packages, so opting for an eSIM is a smart choice.

Not all phones support eSIM, so it is important to check compatibility before you buy.

9) Follow the Dress Rules, Especially When Visiting Mosques!

Bursa Ulucamii (Grand Mosque)

Bursa is a city full of history and was once the first capital of the Ottoman Empire.

Here you’ll discover many amazing historical sites, especially the mosques, which are quite common.

If you plan to visit mosques, tombs, or other sacred sites, it’s important to be aware of the dress code before entering. For example, larger mosques such as the Ulucamii (Grand Mosque) provide headscarves and appropriate clothing for women so you’ll feel more comfortable. Following these guidelines will make your visit not only more respectful, but also a more meaningful cultural and spiritual experience.

10) You Will Find Many Parks in Bursa – Make Sure You Enjoy Them

Bursa Botanical Park

Bursa is an important metropolis in Turkey, often referred to as the “Green City”. In fact, the Nilüfer district of Bursa has been recognized worldwide with the “Livable City” award. The city’s natural beauty is reflected in its neighborhoods, and you’ll find many well-maintained parks throughout the area. After a busy day of sightseeing, taking a break in one of these parks can be a great way to relax and benefit your mental and physical health. Bursa is also home to large parks such as the Botanical Park, where you can enjoy bike rides and add a fun and meaningful activity to your trip.

11) Get to Know Bursa Before You Go!

Whenever I plan to travel to a new destination, I always make sure to thoroughly research the area and, if possible, read books about its culture. Bursa’s history dates back to the 4th century B.C., and its rich past can be seen in the countless historical sites around the city. As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is of great importance. This city offers a deep historical experience with new discoveries around every corner. I highly recommend reading detailed blog posts and doing research before you visit.

12) You’ll Find Plenty of Bars and Cafes in Bursa

Podyumpark Bursa Turkey

When you visit Bursa, you’ll find that the city offers not only rich historical sites and cultural heritage, but also a vibrant cafe and bar scene. Sure, Bursa is known for its countless mosques, medreses and tombs, but the locals spend much of their social time in cafes and bars. In the city center, you’ll find many coffee shops and places to enjoy traditional Turkish tea. As you head towards the more modern Nilufer district, you’ll notice an increase in the number of bars. If you’re staying in Nilufer, you can relax and enjoy a drink after a long and tiring day. This mix of tradition and modernity is what makes Bursa such a unique city.

13) Get Used to Cats and Dogs – They’re Locals in Bursa Too!

Don’t be surprised if you see a lot of cats and dogs as soon as you enter Bursa. They’re basically locals too. The people of Bursa have adopted them and they’ve all gotten used to living together. You’ll see them all over the city.

14) Get Ready to Taste Amazing Food in Bursa!

Bursa Iskender Kebab

I can guarantee you that you’ll taste some truly amazing flavors in Bursa. In fact, I’ve written an article about the city’s most historic restaurants and incredible dishes.

Turkish kebab is famous all over the world, and one of the cities where it originated is Bursa. The famous Iskender kebab was born here, and the city is home to many historic restaurants. Get ready to indulge in some unforgettable tastes!

15) Learn Some Basic Turkish Words and Use Them at Local Markets!

Bursa Historical Reyhan Bazaar

Learn some basic Turkish phrases such as Merhaba (Hello), Nasılsınız (How are you?) and Ben iyiyim (I’m fine) Teşekkürler (Thank you) and use them when shopping in local markets or stores. The people of Bursa are friendly and welcoming to tourists. Smile and engage with them and enjoy everything the city has to offer. After all, the world belongs to all of us.

16) Don’t Be Surprised When You See Bursa’s Steep Streets

When you arrive in Bursa, don’t be surprised by the steep streets. The moment you think, “I’ll just walk around and explore,” you’re actually stepping into what I like to call the “Queen of Hills!” The city is built at the foot of Uludag mountain, which means that every corner you turn, you’re facing a slope. The old streets of Bursa were designed to fit this mountainous landscape, so it’s as if every street is its own little uphill challenge. Back in the Ottoman days, they planned the city to spread up the mountain, which explains why there are hills everywhere. So these steep streets are really a reflection of both the natural landscape and the historical feel of the city.

17 )You’ll Need a Museum Pass to Visit the Museums!

Turkish history dates back to around 3000 BC and the country has a rich and deep history. As a result, there are many museums throughout Turkey. One of the smartest things you can do when planning your trip to this country is to invest in a museum pass.

You can easily purchase one before you arrive in Turkey. When visiting museums, you can simply scan a QR code to enter. For more information on the Museum Pass, visit the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

TIPS TO MAKE YOUR VISIT TO BURSA MORE MEANINGFUL

18) Have a Taste of ‘TAHANLI”

When you visit Turkey, you’ll quickly notice how widespread the breakfast culture is. There’s a bakery on almost every corner selling freshly baked goods. This tradition is also very much alive in Bursa. The city is home to a unique treat made with tahini and pita called “TAHANLI” and it’s so popular that people travel from other cities just to try it. There’s one bakery in particular where you must try it, but be prepared – there’s often a long line outside!

In Bursa, “TAHANLI” is a must – and this is the place to get it!

19) Explore the Historic Silk Bazaars of Kozahan and Enjoy Turkish Tea and Coffee!

The historic Koza Han, a center of trade and commerce since the 15th century, offers a unique experience. After shopping for silk, you can enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee over the coals or have a meal at one of the many cafés nestled under centuries-old trees, all while soaking in the rich historical atmosphere.

Kozahan Bursa,Turkey

In Bursa, there’s a place built in the 1300s that now houses mostly silk shops. If you’re visiting as a tourist, I highly recommend not passing by without checking it out.

20) Take a Cable Car to the Top of Uludag Mountain!

One of the best things to do when visiting Bursa is to take the cable car up to Uludag Mountain. You’ll be treated to amazing views that will make the trip unforgettable. To get to Uludag, you have to go to the Teleferik district. From the city center, you can take buses from the bus stop just opposite Ulucamii (Grand Mosque). Look for buses marked “TELEFERIK” to take you there. If you’re coming from Istanbul, you can also take the F3 bus right in front of the BUDO ferry terminal, which will take you to the cable car station. Taking the cable car up to Mount Uludağ is a great way to escape stress.

21) Visit the Irgandı Bridge and Shop at the Local Markets Inside!

Irgandi Bridge BursaOh, you have to see the Irgandı Bridge when you’re in Bursa! It’s absolutely fascinating. Built in the 15th century, it is one of the most important Ottoman-era stone structures in Turkey. But here’s the kicker – it’s not just a historical monument. The entire bridge has been transformed into this incredible outdoor shopping street! Imagine walking across a centuries-old bridge and suddenly you’re surrounded by colorful little shops, local jewelry, handmade souvenirs, and unique works of art.

22) Watch a Turkish Play at the Bursa State Theaters!

I absolutely love going to the theater and recommend it to everyone. I especially enjoy visiting theaters in the cities I travel to. For example, when I visited Batumi, I saw some amazing theater buildings. If you’re visiting Bursa, I would definitely recommend going to the Bursa State Theater. The ticket prices are incredibly affordable – you can see amazing performances for as little as $1. It’s a great way to get a deeper understanding of Turkish culture while adding more meaning to your trip.

Bursa State Theatre publishes a monthly program. You can follow it here.

Bursa State Theater.

23) Visit the Home of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the Founder of the Republic of Turkey!

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of Turkey, has a villa in Bursa that is now open to visitors as a museum. This museum offers a deep insight into the modernization process of Turkey and the life of the founder of the Republic. A museum pass (Muzekart) is required to enter the museum. The museum is closed on Mondays but open on the other six days of the week. It opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at 5:00 p.m.

24) Never Leave Without Trying the Kestane Sekeri (Chestnut Candy)!

When you think of Bursa, one of the first things that comes to mind is chestnut candy. Known since ancient times as the “elixir of love,” chestnuts have become so synonymous with the city that they’re almost a symbol of it. Some even believe that chestnuts have health benefits and can prolong life. This delicious treat, first made in the early 1900s, is made by cooking peeled chestnuts in syrup and then sweetening them. If you’re wondering where to find the best chestnut candy in Bursa, I highly recommend the KAFKAS brand. It truly captures the essence of the city’s culture in every bite.

25) Get Books About Bursa at the Bursa Bookstore!

Bursa Bookstore is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to explore the city’s rich history, cultural heritage and daily life. You can find comprehensive books on local history, traditions and famous landmarks that will give you a deeper understanding of Bursa. Easily accessible from the city center, especially if you’re walking from the Ulucami area or taking a bus or tram, this bookstore offers a unique reading experience that will add value to your trip. Adding a book about Bursa to your collection will make your visit even more meaningful.

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