Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque)
20-domed Ottoman mosque built in 1399 with a large interior fountain and impressive calligraphy panels
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About Bursa
Bursa served as the first Ottoman capital from 1326 and retains an extraordinary concentration of 14th–15th century Ottoman monuments. The city's skyline is dominated by the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) with its 20 domes, while the Green Mosque and Green Tomb represent the pinnacle of early Ottoman architecture. Beyond its historic core, Bursa offers thermal baths in the Çekirge district, the UNESCO-listed Ottoman village of Cumalıkızık, silk and textile bazaars in Koza Han, and a cable car ascending to Uludağ — Turkey's premier ski and trekking mountain at 2,543 m. The İskender kebap, invented here in the 19th century, remains the city's signature culinary export.
- Capital
- Bursa
- Largest city
- Bursa
- Population
- 3.2 million
- Languages
- Turkish, English (city center and tourist areas)
- Currency
- Turkish Lira
- Time zone
- TRT (UTC+3)
Explore Bursa by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Bursa
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Yeşil Cami (Green Mosque)
Early Ottoman masterpiece built 1419–1421, famous for its exquisite Iznik tile work in shades of turquoise and green
Uludağ National Park
Turkey's premier ski resort in winter, a trekking and nature destination in summer, reachable by cable car
Cumalıkızık Village
UNESCO-listed 700-year-old Ottoman village with original stone houses and cobblestone streets
Koza Han
Historic 15th-century silk market caravanserai still trading in silk scarves, cocoons, and textiles
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Bursa Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Bursa, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Bursa
- Days 1-2Bursa city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Bursa
- Days 1-3Bursa comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Bursa, departure
Where to stay in Bursa
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $30
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $75
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $200
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Hotel Çelik Palas
Check rates on Booking.comAnatolia Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comSafran Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comAlmira Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Bursa
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
İskender Restaurant (Original)
Kebapçı İskender
Arap Şükrü Restaurant
Çiçek Izgara
Cumbalı Köşk Restaurant
Yıldız Entegre Restaurant
Getting around Bursa
Bursa is most easily reached from Istanbul by ferry to Mudanya (sea bus from Yenikapı or Kabataş pier, ~1.5 hours) then bus into the city, or by intercity bus (~3.5 hours). The city has a well-developed metro (BursaRay) and bus network. The Uludağ Teleferik cable car connects the city to the mountain.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15 | $40 | $120 |
| Food (per day) | $8 | $20 | $50 |
| Transportation | $3 | $7 | $15 |
| Activities | $4 | $8 | $15 |
| Daily total | $30 | $75 | $200 |
Best time to visit Bursa
Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures ideal for sightseeing. January–March is peak ski season on Uludağ. Summer is warm and dry for city exploration.
Essential travel tips
- Purchase a KentKart for public transport — available at metro stations for ₺50 (~$1.45) including credit
- The ferry from Yenikapı (Istanbul) to Mudanya is the most scenic way to arrive
- Many mosques close to tourists during prayer times; plan visits between prayer calls
- İskender kebap is traditionally served with ayran (yogurt drink) and tomato sauce
- Buy silk scarves at Koza Han for fair prices — authentic Bursa silk, not imports
Safety information
Use BiTaksi app to book taxis and avoid overcharging
Store valuables in your hotel safe; the covered bazaar area can be crowded
Dress modestly when visiting mosques — shoulders and knees must be covered
Carry cash as some smaller eateries and market stalls are cash-only
In winter, roads to Uludağ require snow chains or 4WD; check conditions before driving
Frequently asked questions
Is Bursa safe to visit in 2026?
Bursa is considered one of Turkey's safest major cities for visitors. Standard urban precautions apply: use the BiTaksi app rather than hailing taxis on the street, keep valuables secured, and dress modestly near mosques. Emergency services: police 155, ambulance/general emergency 112.
What is the best time to visit Bursa?
April–May and September–October offer the best conditions for sightseeing with mild temperatures (15–25°C). January–March is the ski season on Uludağ. Summer (July–August) is warm and dry in the city (28–33°C). Winter in the city is cold and occasionally snowy.
How do I get to Bursa from Istanbul?
The most scenic route is the IDO sea bus from Yenikapı or Kabataş pier to Mudanya (~90 minutes, ₺280/~$8), then a 30-minute bus to central Bursa. Alternatively, intercity buses from Istanbul's main bus terminals take 3–3.5 hours (₺150–250/~$4–7). Booking via obilet.com or directly at the terminal.
Do I need a visa to visit Bursa?
Entry requires a Turkish visa. Most nationalities obtain an e-Visa at evisa.gov.tr before travel. Some nationalities are visa-free for up to 90 days. Always verify your nationality's requirements on the official Turkish e-Visa portal before booking travel.
What is Bursa famous for?
Bursa is famous as the first Ottoman capital, home to landmark mosques including Ulu Cami and Yeşil Cami, the invention of İskender kebap, Uludağ ski resort, natural thermal springs in Çekirge, the UNESCO-listed Cumalıkızık village, and Turkey's historic silk-weaving industry centered on the Koza Han caravanserai.
What currency is used in Bursa?
The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the currency. ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and most restaurants; carry cash for bazaars, street food, and smaller establishments. As of mid-2026, approximately 34.5 TRY = 1 USD.