Discover Bursa

Bursa

Bursa

The cosmopolitan city of Bursa lies in northwestern Turkey, located just southeast of Istanbul. As the fourth largest city with over 3 million residents, Bursa enjoys a climate of warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. Bursa played a key role as first capital of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century. Historic sites include the ornate Green Mausoleum, Silk Market baths and mosques displaying the distinctive greenIznik tiles. Surrounding mountains offer hot springs and trails through forests and villages.

Bursa is renowned for producing local delicacies like Bursa içli köfte meatballs and kestane şekeri chestnut candy. Visitors can sample these alongside regional specialties in lively pedestrian streets or tea gardens.

Ski resorts located just 1-2 hours away in Mount Uludağ National Park attract winter sports enthusiasts. Bursa's metropolitan amenities, cultural treasures and proximity to Istanbul make it a popular destination year-round. Well-connected by highways and train lines, accommodation ranges from boutique hotels to pensions.

  1. Transportation: Bursa is easily accessible from Istanbul, as it is located just across the Sea of Marmara. The nearest international airport is Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) in Istanbul. From Istanbul, you can reach Bursa by ferry, which offers a scenic journey across the sea. Alternatively, you can travel by bus or car via the Osmangazi Bridge, which connects the two cities. Bursa also has its own airport, Yenişehir Airport (YEI), which operates domestic flights.

  2. Climate: Bursa has a mild, Mediterranean climate with hot summers and cool, wet winters. The best time to visit Bursa is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

  3. Attractions: Bursa is renowned for its historical sites, unique architecture, and stunning landscapes. Here are some popular places to visit in Bursa:

    • Bursa Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami): This grand mosque is one of the most significant landmarks in Bursa. It showcases impressive Ottoman architecture and houses beautiful calligraphy and intricate ceramic decorations.

    • Bursa Citadel: Located in the old town district, the Bursa Citadel offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past. Visitors can explore the ancient walls, towers, and gates, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding area.

    • Koza Han: Built during the 15th century, Koza Han is a historical market and commercial center. It is known for its traditional silk production and offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops, cafes, and cultural events.

    • Mount Uludağ: Situated just outside the city, Mount Uludağ is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers opportunities for skiing, hiking, and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. In winter, it transforms into a ski resort with well-equipped facilities.

  4. Local Cuisine: Bursa is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Some must-try dishes include "İskender Kebap" (sliced lamb or beef over bread with tomato sauce and yogurt), "Kestane Kebabı" (chestnut kebab), "Manti" (Turkish dumplings), and "İnegöl Köfte" (spiced meatballs). Don't forget to sample the region's famous desserts, such as "Künefe" and "İrmik Helvası." Bursa is also known for its traditional Turkish tea and "İncirli Şeker" (fig-flavored candy).

  5. Accommodation: Bursa offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and budget-friendly guesthouses. Most hotels are located in the city center and provide easy access to major attractions.

As always, it's advisable to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines before your trip, as they may change. Enjoy your visit to Bursa and explore its fascinating history, architecture, and natural wonders!

Places

Bursa Archaeological Museum (Turkish: Bursa Arkeoloji Müzesi) is a museum in Bursa, Turkey, dedicated to the history of the city. The museum is located in the city center, near the Ulu Cami. The museum was founded in 1924, and has a collection of over 10,000 objects from the Neolithic, Bronze Age, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottom..

Bursa Atatürk Museum (Turkish: Bursa Atatürk Müzesi) is a museum in Bursa, Turkey, dedicated to the life and legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey. The museum is located in the former home of Atatürk, which he lived in from 1919 to 1923. The museum was opened in 1944, and has a collection of over 1,000 objects, incl..

Bursa Energy Museum (Turkish: Bursa Enerji Müzesi) is a museum in Bursa, Turkey, dedicated to the history of energy in the city. The museum is located in the former power station of the Bursa Electric Company, which was built in 1902. The museum was opened in 2012, and has a collection of over 1,000 objects, including steam engines, turbines, gener..

Bursa Forestry Museum (Turkish: Bursa Orman Müzesi) is a museum in Bursa, Turkey, dedicated to the history of forestry in the city. The museum is located in the former Ottoman forestry school, which was built in 1902. The museum was opened in 2005, and has a collection of over 1,000 objects, including tools, equipment, and documents related to fore..

Bursa Karagöz Museum (Turkish: Bursa Karagöz Müzesi) is a museum in Bursa, Turkey, dedicated to the traditional Turkish shadow puppet theater, Karagöz. The museum is located in the former home of Karagöz artist Mehmet Sarıgül, who died in 2004. The museum was opened in 2005, and has a collection of over 1,000 objects, including puppets, masks, cost..

Bursa Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art (Turkish: Bursa Türk ve İslam Eserleri Müzesi) is a museum in Bursa, Turkey, dedicated to Turkish and Islamic art. The museum is located in the city center, near the Ulu Cami. The museum was founded in 1975, and has a collection of over 6,000 objects, including manuscripts, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. Th..

The Mudanya Armistice House (Turkish: Mudanya Mütareke Evi) is a museum in Mudanya, Turkey, dedicated to the armistice that ended World War I. The house was built in 1896, and was used by the Ottoman government as a guesthouse for foreign dignitaries. In 1918, the house was used by the Ottoman and Allied delegations to negotiate the armistice. The ..

Surrounding Uludağ Mountain, thick coniferous and deciduous forests cloak slopes home to wildlife like bears, wild boar and deer. Glacial streams nourish colorful alpine meadows grazed by nomadic cattle herders in summer. Hiking trails traverse forests and meadows passing archaeological remains and historic mountain shelters. Outdoor pursuits in..