Bursa, often referred to as the "Green City" due to its lush parks and gardens, is a treasure trove of historical, cultural, and natural wonders. Nestled at the foot of Mount Uludağ in northwestern Turkey, Bursa offers a perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to unwind, Bursa has something for everyone. The city's rich Ottoman heritage is reflected in its well-preserved architecture, majestic mosques, and bustling bazaars, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. When planning your trip, you'll find that the list of things to do in Bursa is as diverse as it is captivating. From exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites to indulging in the city’s famous thermal baths, Bursa offers experiences that cater to every interest.
Best Things to Do in Bursa: A City of Timeless Beauty and Adventure
With so many things to do in Bursa, this city promises an unforgettable journey through time, nature, and culture. Whether you're visiting for a few days or an extended stay, Bursa's diverse attractions will leave you enchanted. Bursa is popular between November and March, when ski slopes provide the greatest snow for outdoor activities. However, the city's numerous parks and proximity to Istanbul make it a year-round destination. Nature lovers can hike through the scenic trails of Mount Uludağ, which also transforms into a popular ski resort during the winter months. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can wander through the ancient streets of Cumalıkızık, a charming village that dates back to the early Ottoman period. After a day of exploration, be sure to savor Bursa’s culinary delights, including the world-renowned İskender kebab, which originated in this city.
- Ride the Bursa Teleferik
- Stroll the Alleys of Cumalıkızık
- Ski on Uludağ
- Explore the Lakeside Village of Gölyazı
- Soak in a Hamam (Turkish Bath)
- Shop at the Bursa Grand Bazaar
- Enjoy the Bursa Karagöz Museum
- Watch a Whirling Dervish Ceremony
- Road Trip along the Marmara Sea Coast
- Silk shopping at the Silk House
1. Ride the Bursa Teleferik
One of the most exhilarating things to do in Bursa is riding the Bursa Teleferik, the longest cable car in Turkey. Stretching over 9 kilometers, this ride offers spectacular views as it carries you from the outskirts of the city up to the peaks of Uludağ Mountain. The journey takes you above dense pine forests, offering a bird’s-eye view of Bursa’s sprawling landscapes and the distant Sea of Marmara. The teleferik is not just a means of transportation but an adventure, providing access to the Uludağ National Park, a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re planning to ski in winter or hike through alpine meadows in summer, the Bursa Teleferik offers an unforgettable start to your mountain adventure.
Location: Piremir, 16340 Yıldırım/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – Morning to Late Evening
Nearby Attractions:
- Sular Vadisi Doğa Parkı
- Tofaş Bursa Anadolu Arabaları Müzesi
- Uludağ Cami
- Tofaş Sanat Galerisi (Tarihi Umurbey Hamamı)
Nearby Restaurants:
- Kınalı Kar Bulanlar Konak Restaurant
- Yüce Hünkar
- Damak Çorbacısı
- Bereket Pide Kebap & Lahmacun Salonu
Nearby Accommodation:
- Kardelen Konak Butik Otel
- Güner Hotel
- Kule Hotel
- Eylül Suit Otel
2. Stroll the Alleys of Cumalıkızık
Among the most charming places to visit in Turkey is Cumalıkızık, a historic village located just outside Bursa. This well-preserved Ottoman village is a living museum, where cobblestone streets wind through centuries-old houses adorned with wooden balconies and colorful facades. As you stroll through the narrow alleys, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The village is famous for its traditional Turkish breakfasts, often served in quaint courtyards filled with the scent of fresh bread and herbs. The village’s small museum and numerous artisan shops offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. A visit to Cumalıkızık is not only a journey through history but also a tranquil escape into the pastoral beauty of rural Turkey.
Location: Cumalıkızık, 16370 Yıldırım/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Nearby Attractions:
- Küreklidere Falls
- Balaban Camii
- Bilgin Bahçesi
- Cumalıkızık Orman Parkı
- Softaboğan Waterfall
Nearby Restaurants:
- Cumalıkızık Köy Kahvaltısı
- Değirmenci Kahvaltı
- Mavi Yıldız Lezzet Diyarı
- Saklı Konak
- Ballım Kafe Cumalıkızık Kahvaltı
Nearby Accommodation:
- Gaia Mansion Cumalıkızık
- Kestel Paşazade Hotel
- Grand Salizze Hotel
- Abbas-ı Âlâ Butik Pansiyon
Suggested Read: Culture and Festivals in Turkey: Where Memories are Made and Never Forgotten
3. Ski on Uludağ
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, skiing on Uludağ Mountain is the ultimate adventure in Bursa. As Turkey’s premier ski resort, Uludağ offers a range of slopes suitable for all levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers. The mountain’s ski season typically runs from December to March, with ample snowfall creating ideal conditions for winter sports. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even lively après-ski scenes in the mountain’s cozy lodges. The panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and the crisp mountain air add to the exhilarating experience. Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or just looking to try something new, skiing on Uludağ is a must-do adventure.
Location: Osmangazi, 1. Kirazlı Sk., 16340 Yıldırım/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Nearby Attractions:
- 1. Gelişim Oteller Bölgesi Rakım
- Uludag Ski Center
- Uludağ Zirve
- Kirazlı Yayla
- Uludağ Milli Parkı
Nearby Restaurants:
- Çobankaya Büfe
- Kirazlıyayla Et Mangal Restaurant
- Drop Lounge & Bar Restaurant
- Trend Life Hotels Uludağ
Nearby Accommodation:
- Grand Yazıcı Chalet
- Karinna Orman Koskleri
- Swissotel Uludag Bursa
- Grand Yazıcı Uludağ
- Oksijen Zone Hotels Uludağ
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4. Explore the Lakeside Village of Gölyazı
Exploring the picturesque lakeside village of Gölyazı is one of the most serene things to do in Bursa, Turkey. Located on a small peninsula jutting into Lake Uluabat, Gölyazı is a charming fishing village with a rich history dating back to antiquity. The village’s narrow streets, lined with traditional stone houses and ancient ruins, invite leisurely exploration. The iconic Weeping Plane Tree, estimated to be over 700 years old, stands as a silent witness to the village’s storied past. Gölyazı is particularly famous for its sunset views, where the golden light reflects off the tranquil waters, creating a mesmerizing scene. Whether you’re boating on the lake, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, Gölyazı offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Location: Gölyazı, 16110 Nilüfer/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Nearby Attractions:
- Gölyazı Sahil
- Apolyont-Gölyazı
- Ağlayan Çınar
- Gölyazı Ullubat Gölü Kıyısı
Nearby Restaurants:
- Rastgele Cafe
- Çiçek Kafe
- İncirli Bahçe
- Sur Teras Cafe Restorant
- Yavuz Selim Kale Çaybahçesi
Nearby Accommodation:
- Gölyazı Gölgören Et Balık Kahvaltı ve Pansiyon
- Faik Bey Konagi
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5. Soak in a Hamam (Turkish Bath)
Among the top Bursa things to do, soaking in a traditional Turkish bath, or hamam, offers a unique and rejuvenating experience. Bursa is known for its centuries-old hamams, where visitors can immerse themselves in the soothing warmth of natural thermal waters. These baths, such as the historic Eski Kaplıca and the opulent Kervansaray Hamam, provide a glimpse into the Ottoman era's luxurious bathing rituals. The experience typically involves a steam bath, exfoliating scrub, and a relaxing massage, leaving you refreshed and revitalized. Whether you’re visiting in the winter or summer, a trip to a hamam is the perfect way to unwind after exploring the city's many attractions. This ancient tradition remains a cherished part of the cultural heritage and is a must-try on your visit to Bursa.
Location: Kükürtlü, Yeni Kaplıca Caddesi No:10, 16080 Osmangazi̇/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – Early Mornings to Late Evenings
Nearby Attractions:
- Bursa Atatürk Museum
- Culture Park Open Air Theater
- Ormancılık Müzesi
- Camlitarla Mosque
- Karagoz Museum
Nearby Restaurants:
- Cekirge Manzara Café
- Cafe Minty Lounge Çekirge
- Yakut Restaurant
- Bade Mantı Evi Kükürtlü
- Şale Restaurant
Nearby Accommodation:
- Tiara Termal Hotel
- Ramada by Wyndham Bursa Cekirge Thermal & Spa
- Hotel Anatolia
- Anemon Bursa Otel
- Ruba Palace Thermal Hotel
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6. Shop at the Bursa Grand Bazaar
For those seeking authentic souvenirs and a true taste of local life, shopping at the Bursa Grand Bazaar is one of the top places to visit in Bursa. This vibrant marketplace is a bustling hub where history and commerce intertwine, offering everything from traditional textiles to handcrafted jewelry. The bazaar's labyrinthine alleys are lined with stalls brimming with spices, sweets, and the famous Bursa silk. As you wander through the marketplace, you’ll also encounter shops selling copperware, ceramics, and other artisanal goods, making it a perfect spot to find unique gifts and mementos. The bazaar’s lively atmosphere, coupled with the warm hospitality of the local vendors, provides an immersive cultural experience that should not be missed during your stay in Bursa.
Location: Nalbantoğlu, Kapalı Çarşı Cad., 16010 Osmangazi/Osmangazi̇/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 7 PM; Sundays - Closed
Nearby Attractions:
- Han Brass
- Koza Han
- Uftade Mosque and Tomb
- Heykel
- Bursa Grand Mosque
Nearby Restaurants:
- Titiz Et Dürüm
- Keyf Restaurant
- Âbad Türk Lokantası
- Müstesna Kozahan
- Beyler Kebap
Nearby Accommodation:
- Bursa Palas Hotel
- Kitap Evi Otel
- Kent Hotel
- Ulu City Hotel
- Artic Hotel
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7. Enjoy the Bursa Karagöz Museum
Exploring the Bursa Karagöz Museum is a fascinating journey into one of the most enchanting things to do in Bursa, Turkey. This museum is dedicated to Karagöz and Hacivat, the beloved characters of traditional Turkish shadow puppetry. Located in the heart of the city, the museum showcases a rich collection of puppets, set designs, and historical artifacts that trace the origins and evolution of this unique art form. Visitors can watch live performances and even try their hand at manipulating the puppets themselves. The museum offers a captivating experience for all ages, combining entertainment with education. It's a wonderful way to delve into Turkish culture and history, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to add a cultural touch to their Bursa itinerary.
Location: Çekirge, Çekirge Cd. No:159, 16265 Osmangazi̇/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Nearby Attractions:
- Bursa Atatürk Museum
- Hudavendigar City Park
- Ormancılık Müzesi
- Kervansaray Thermal Hammam
Nearby Restaurants:
- Pier Habib Bursa
- Hacı Baba Kebap
- Hacı Rıfat Bey Kebapçısı
- Dereağzı Cafe Restaurant
- Coi Pizzeria & Italian Food
Nearby Accommodation:
- Royal Termal Hotel Bursa
- VIP Apart Hotel
- Anemon Bursa Otel
- Marigold Thermal & SPA Hotel
- Kadı Konağı Butık Termal
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8. Watch a Whirling Dervish Ceremony
For a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience, watching a Whirling Dervish ceremony is one of the most unforgettable activities near the villas in Turkey. These ceremonies, rooted in the mystical Sufi tradition, are both a form of meditation and a symbol of the divine. The dervishes, dressed in flowing white robes, spin gracefully to the sound of traditional music, creating a hypnotic and serene atmosphere. While the ceremonies are often associated with the city of Konya, they are also performed in Bursa, providing visitors with the chance to witness this unique spiritual practice. The ritual's profound symbolism and the dervishes' disciplined movements offer a deep insight into Islamic mysticism and are an essential cultural experience for anyone visiting Turkey.
Location: Maksem, Başçı Sk. No:17, 16040 Osmangazi̇/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 11 PM
Nearby Attractions:
- Sivasiler Mosque
- Temenyeri Park
- Maksem Darphane Kültür Merkezi
- Hüsamettin Tekke Camii
- Sultan's Mansion Museum
Nearby Restaurants:
- Kucuksaray Pideli Kofte
- Maksem Kiraathanesi
- Zarif Çiğköfte
- Kozde Kebap & Pide Salonu
- Kral çiğköfte
Nearby Accommodation:
- Konak Suit Apart
- Grand Marrakech Hotel
- Hotel Grand Sculpture
- Arslanlar Konağı Hotel & Restaurant
- Tahtakale Konağı Hotel Private & Luxury
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9. Road Trip along the Marmara Sea Coast
Embarking on a road trip along the Marmara Sea Coast is one of the most scenic and relaxing things to do while staying at hotels in Turkey. This picturesque drive takes you along the coastline, where you can enjoy stunning sea views, charming seaside towns, and lush green landscapes. Starting from Bursa, the journey offers numerous opportunities to stop and explore, whether it's to sample fresh seafood at a local restaurant, visit a quaint fishing village, or simply take in the tranquil beauty of the sea. The route is dotted with historical sites, cozy cafes, and scenic picnic spots, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This coastal drive is a perfect addition to your Turkish itinerary, offering a peaceful and visually captivating experience.
Location: E-84, Yenice, Marmara Sahil Sitesi, 59850 Çorlu/Tekirdağ, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Nearby Attractions:
- Altıntarla Çocuk Parkı
- Trakya Birlik Integrated Plant
- Atatürk Parkı Plajı
- Dallas Plajı
- Trend Aqua Park
Nearby Restaurants:
- Köfteci Yusuf
- Melih Öge Tekirdağ Köftesi
- Köfteci Yusuf
Nearby Accommodation:
- Evren Tatil Köyü
- Yeniçiftlik Sahil
- Kıral Camping
- Aytepe Tatil Köyü
- Özler 1 Tatil Köyü
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10. Silk Shopping at the Silk House
Silk shopping at the Silk House is a delightful activity to do in Bursa, especially for those interested in the city’s rich textile heritage. Bursa has been renowned for its silk production since the Ottoman era, and the Silk House, located in the historic Koza Han, is the perfect place to experience this tradition firsthand. Here, you can browse through an exquisite collection of silk scarves, garments, and fabrics, all crafted with the finest quality. The market also offers a glimpse into the silk-making process, with displays that showcase the intricate techniques involved. Whether you’re looking to purchase a luxurious souvenir or simply explore the vibrant colors and textures, a visit to the Silk House is a must. This experience not only connects you to Bursa’s past but also supports local artisans who continue to keep this ancient craft alive.
Location: Yeşil, 1. Yeşil Cd. 66-1, 16360 Yıldırım/Bursa, Türkiye
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Nearby Attractions:
- Şible Camii
- Bayezid Pasha Madrasa Culture and Art Center
- Yesil (Mehmed I) Külliye (UNESCO)
- Green Tomb
- Turkish & Islamic Art Museum
Nearby Restaurants:
- Dönerci Mehmet Usta
- Bursa Döner Sofrası
- Damak Çorbacısı
- Kervan Cafe Restorant
- Mert Döner Pideli köfte cantık lahmacun
Nearby Accommodation:
- Panorama 1326 Bursa Conquest Museum
- Yıldırım Beyazıt Tomb
- Tofaş Bursa Anadolu Arabaları Müzesi
- Emir Sultan MosqueS
- Sultan's Mansion Museum
Things to do in Bursa offer a diverse and enriching experience, blending history, culture, nature, and spirituality in one remarkable destination. From the rejuvenating hamams to the vibrant Bursa Grand Bazaar, the enchanting Bursa Karagöz Museum, and the serene Whirling Dervish ceremonies, Bursa is a city that captivates the senses and soul alike. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, embarking on a scenic road trip along the Marmara Sea, or indulging in silk shopping at the Silk House, each activity adds a unique dimension to your visit. For those planning their next adventure, incorporating Bursa into your itinerary is a decision you won’t regret. Many of our Turkey tour packages include Bursa as a key destination, allowing travelers to experience the city's charm and beauty in a well-curated journey. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, Bursa promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Things to Do in Bursa – FAQ's
Bursa offers a rich mix of activities, from exploring historical sites like the Grand Mosque and Bursa Castle to soaking in traditional Turkish baths (hamams). You can also enjoy shopping at the Bursa Grand Bazaar, visiting the Bursa Karagöz Museum, and taking a scenic road trip along the Marmara Sea coast.
Yes, Bursa is a great destination for nature lovers. Mount Uludağ offers excellent hiking and skiing opportunities, while the surrounding parks and gardens provide a peaceful escape. The scenic coastal drive along the Marmara Sea also adds to the natural beauty of the region.
Bursa is easily accessible from Istanbul by ferry, bus, or car. The ferry ride across the Marmara Sea is a popular option, offering stunning views and a comfortable journey. Alternatively, buses and cars can take you directly to Bursa via a well-maintained highway.
Bursa is famous for its rich Ottoman history, traditional Turkish baths, and delicious cuisine, especially the İskender kebab. The city is also known for its silk production, historic bazaars, and as a gateway to Mount Uludağ, a popular ski resort.
Absolutely. Bursa is a cultural hub where you can experience traditional Turkish customs, from hamam bathing rituals to shadow puppet theater. The city's historic architecture, local markets, and spiritual ceremonies, like the Whirling Dervish performances, offer deep insights into Turkish culture.
History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Grand Mosque, Bursa Castle, and the village of Cumalıkızık. These sites offer a glimpse into Bursa's Ottoman past, with well-preserved architecture, artifacts, and a rich historical narrative that dates back centuries.
Yes, Bursa is an excellent shopping destination, especially for those interested in traditional crafts. The Bursa Grand Bazaar and Koza Han are famous for silk products, textiles, and handcrafted goods. You can also find a variety of local spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
The best time to visit Bursa depends on your interests. Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Winter is ideal for skiing at Mount Uludağ, while summer is great for exploring the city's parks, gardens, and coastal areas.
Bursa hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Bursa International Festival, which features music, dance, and theater performances. The annual Whirling Dervish ceremonies are also a highlight, offering a spiritual experience deeply rooted in Turkish tradition.
Yes, many Turkey tour packages include Bursa as a key destination due to its historical significance and natural beauty. These packages often combine visits to Istanbul and other nearby attractions, providing a well-rounded experience of Turkey's cultural and natural treasures.
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