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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Bursa sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled among the rolling hills of Turkey’s northwest region lies the vibrant city of Bursa, a treasure trove of cultural landmarks, bustling bazaars, and vibrant nightlife.
From the towering heights of Uludağ Mountain to the colourful streets of the Grand Bazaar, Bursa is a place of endless possibilities, waiting to be explored and savoured.
Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, or simply a taste of Turkish hospitality, Bursa is guaranteed to enchant and delight.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Bursa:
1. Mount Uludağ Ski Resort
Mount Uludağ Ski Resort is a popular ski destination located in the city of Bursa, Turkey. It is the country’s largest winter sports resort, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss: – The chance to ski or snowboard on the resort’s longest run, which is over 2.
Insider travel tips:
2. The Green Mosque
The Green Mosque, also known as Yesil Camii, is a historic mosque located in the city of Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: The mosque’s stunning architecture and intricate decorations are a highlight worth seeing. Visitors can marvel at the green tiles that adorn the interior, as well as the impressive calligraphy on the walls.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive inverted tulip-shaped dome, a signature feature of Ottoman architecture. The courtyard and surrounding gardens also offer a tranquil and beautiful setting for a stroll or peaceful contemplation.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should plan to arrive early to avoid crowds and take in the mosque’s beauty at a leisurely pace. It is also important to note that non-Muslim visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
3. Bursa Castle
Bursa Castle (also known as Bursa Kalesi) is an ancient fortress located in the city of Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the castle grounds and explore its ancient walls and towers. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding city and nearby mountains.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a walk around the castle’s outer walls, which offer panoramic views of the city and the nearby Uludağ Mountain.
Also, don’t miss the inner courtyard, which is home to a beautiful Ottoman-era fountain.
Insider travel tips: – Visiting the castle early in the morning or later in the evening is recommended to avoid large crowds.
4. Cumalikizik Village
Cumalikizik is a charming village located at the foot of Mount Uludag in Bursa, Turkey.
It is one of the oldest villages in the region and is known for its historic Ottoman houses and traditional architecture.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Cumalikizik and admire the historic houses that date back to the Ottoman era.
Visit the village’s mosque, which was built in the late 14th century and features beautiful Ottoman architecture.
Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the village, and try famous local dishes like Iskender kebab and lamb stew.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss a visit to the village’s weekly market, where you can find a variety of local produce and handicrafts. Take a short hike to the nearby waterfall or hike up Mount Uludag for stunning views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets of Cumalikizik are quite hilly and uneven. Visit the village early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to see the village come to life.
Don’t forget to try the local honey and chestnuts, which are a specialty of the region.
5. Grand Mosque of Bursa
The Grand Mosque of Bursa, also known as the Ulu Cami, is a historic mosque located in the heart of Bursa city in Turkey.
It is one of the largest and oldest mosques in the country and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic architecture or religious history.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Grand Mosque of Bursa can marvel at its stunning architecture, which features 20 domes and two minarets. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate decorations and calligraphy adorning the walls and ceilings.
The mosque also has a beautiful courtyard and fountain, as well as a large prayer hall.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the unique ceramic tiles that cover the walls of the mosque’s entrance hall.
These tiles date back to the 14th century and are a stunning example of the intricate tilework that was popular in the Ottoman Empire.
Insider travel tips: – Dress modestly when visiting the mosque. Women should cover their heads and wear long skirts or pants, and men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
6. Bursa Silk Market
Bursa Silk Market, also known as Koza Han, is a historical market in Bursa, Turkey that specializes in silk products.
What to see or do: Experience the rich history of Turkish silk trade in the bustling market that sells traditional silk goods such as scarves, shawls, and fabrics.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to bargain for the best deals and authentic Turkish silk products. Make sure to also visit the center fountain, an iconic landmark of the market.
Insider travel tips: Bring cash as credit cards are not widely accepted. It’s best to visit the market in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends.
7. Tombs of Osman and Orhan
The Tombs of Osman and Orhan are historic sites located in Bursa, Turkey. These tombs are the final resting place of Osman I and Orhan I, the founders of the Ottoman Empire.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped cemetery and explore the historic architecture of both tombs. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the tombs make for great photo opportunities.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the intricate hand-carved designs and calligraphy on the tombs. Also, make sure to visit the nearby Green Mosque and Mausoleum, which are known for their beautiful ceramic tilework.
Insider travel tips: It’s important to note that the tombs are closed on Mondays. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Additionally, the nearby Emir Sultan Mosque and Tomb are also worth a visit, offering even more history and beautiful architecture to explore.
8. Bursa City Museum
Bursa City Museum is a history museum located in the heart of Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and displays that showcase the rich history and culture of the city.
You can experience the impressive interactive exhibits and learn about the city’s notable landmarks and historical events.
Don’t miss: The museum’s display on the ancient Silk Road trade route that played a significant role in the development of Bursa.
Insider travel tips: The museum’s is housed in a historic 19th-century building.
9. Bursa City Walls
Bursa City Walls are a historic defensive fortification system that surrounds the old city center of Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a scenic and leisurely walk along the walls, which are punctuated by historic gates and towers. The walls offer excellent views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the panoramic views the walls provide. Especially the stunning sunset view from the westernmost gate.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the walls early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Visitors can enter the walls from various gates, but the most convenient gate for tourists is the Ataturk Caddesi gate, near the old town.
10. Tophane Clock Tower
A historic clock tower located in the Tophane neighborhood of Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: Marvel at the impressive Ottoman architecture of the clock tower and take in the panoramic views of the city from the top.
Don’t miss: The beautiful ceramics adorning the walls of the tower.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit for sunset to watch the tower light up and enjoy cool evening temperatures. Be prepared for a steep climb to the top, but the view is definitely worth it.
11. Koza Han Bazaar
A historical covered bazaar located in the heart of Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: Wander through the narrow lanes and explore the wide variety of shops selling traditional Turkish goods such as textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.
Bargaining with the shop owners is part of the experience.
Don’t miss: The Koza Han Mosque, a small mosque located inside the bazaar, and the traditional Turkish coffee shops where you can take a break and sample some authentic Turkish coffee.
Insider travel tips: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and take a guided tour to learn about the bazaar’s history and significance in the city.
Keep in mind that some shops may only accept cash, so make sure to bring some Turkish Lira.
12. Emir Sultan Mosque
Emir Sultan Mosque is a historic mosque located in Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive Ottoman architecture of the mosque, including its large dome and minarets. Take a walk around the serene courtyard and lush gardens.
Don’t miss: The beautiful calligraphy adorning the walls and ceilings of the mosque, as well as the intricate tilework.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the mosque. If you visit during prayer times, be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos.
13. Kitapçılar Çarşısı (Book Bazaar)
-Bursa.jpg "Kitapçılar Çarşısı (Book Bazaar)")
A historical bazaar full of bookstores and bookshops in Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the maze-like alleys filled with shops selling old and new books alike. You can find a vast collection of books written about a variety of topics, including literature, art, and history.
You can also find books in different languages, from Turkish to English, German, and French.
Don’t miss: The chance to haggle over the prices of books with the vendors, who are always happy to engage in friendly bargaining sessions with customers.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the bazaar can get crowded and has uneven surfaces. Many of the shops are closed on Sundays.
Bring cash as not all shops accept credit cards. Be prepared to spend a few hours here and enjoy getting lost in the charming alleys filled with books!
14. Tombs of Sultan Murad I and Murad II
Tombs of Sultan Murad I and Murad II are historic structures located in Bursa, Turkey, that are a testament to the Ottoman period’s architectural and artistic glory.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the intricate and elegant architecture, featuring beautiful patterns and designs that mesmerize and evoke the grandeur of a bygone era.
The tombs’ interior is equally impressive, displaying ornate calligraphic inscriptions and amazing tile works on the walls.
Don’t miss: One should not miss the intricate decoration of the sarcophagus of Murad I and Murad II. Also, the unique sounds created by the thermal water flowing through the tombs’ marble floors make for an unforgettable experience.
Insider travel tips: It’s worth hiring a guide to absorb the place’s rich history and artistry fully. Wear comfortable shoes as visiting the tombs involves a bit of walking.
Photography isn’t allowed inside the tombs, so visitors should plan accordingly. Opt to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
15. Bursa Zoo
Bursa Zoo is a popular animal park in the city of Bursa, Turkey.
What to see or do: You can explore the 223,000 square meters of the zoo and discover different animal species from lions, tigers, elephants, zebras, kangaroos, and many others.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the zoo would be the sea lions show, which is an entertaining and interactive performance you shouldn’t miss.
Insider travel tips: – It’s best to visit the zoo during the early hours of the day to avoid the crowds.
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