Bursa Tour: A City Where History, Culture, and Nature Meet
Bursa, a city with a significant place in history as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, is a unique city where history, culture, and nature are intertwined. Known as the Green Bursa, the city captivates visitors with its nature, historical sites, and delicious cuisine. A tour in Bursa will offer you the opportunity to explore both the past and nature together. Here are the places you must visit during your tour of Bursa:
1. Ulu Mosque
One of the landmarks of Bursa, Ulu Mosque is a magnificent structure that carries traces of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture. Built in 1399, the mosque is notable for its 20 domes. When you enter the mosque, the elegant interior decoration and the vast space will impress you. You will feel lost in time as you explore Ulu Mosque.
What to do: Visit the largest mosque in Bursa, discover the mesmerizing atmosphere of its interior, and enjoy the peaceful environment.
2. Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe)
One of Bursa’s most important religious sites, Green Tomb is the tomb of Ottoman Sultan Çelebi Mehmet. Famous for its blue-green tiles, the tomb is one of the finest examples of Ottoman art. The interior of the tomb is also quite impressive and represents an important cultural heritage passed down from the Ottoman Empire.
What to do: Visit the Green Tomb and witness one of the masterpieces of Ottoman art while immersing yourself in its rich history.
3. Cumalıkızık Village
Cumalıkızık, one of Bursa’s historical villages, is like an open-air museum with its stone houses and narrow streets from the Ottoman period. It is one of the rare settlements listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Walking through Cumalıkızık will transport you back in time.
What to do: Walk through the streets of Cumalıkızık, discover the Ottoman stone houses, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village.
4. Bursa Castle
Located on a high point in the city, Bursa Castle offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. The castle contains traces of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. You can observe the city from above while exploring the historical ruins.
What to do: Climb up to Bursa Castle, explore the historical remains, and enjoy the view of the city from the top.
5. Bursa Cable Car and Uludağ
Uludağ, one of the most famous natural attractions in Bursa, is a popular destination for winter tourism. It is also an ideal place for mountain hiking and nature exploration during the summer months. You can easily reach Uludağ by the Bursa cable car, enjoying breathtaking views on your way up.
What to do: Ski on Uludağ in winter or go hiking during the summer, and take a cable car ride to enjoy the magnificent views.
6. Tophane Area
Tophane, located close to Bursa’s historic center, sits atop a hill offering a commanding view of the city. It contains several Ottoman-era monuments, including the first Ottoman cannon factory and the historic clock tower. As you walk around Tophane, you’ll not only discover historical landmarks but also enjoy the city’s panoramic view.
What to do: Explore the historical sites in Tophane, enjoy the city view, and discover the traces of the Ottoman era.
7. Bursa’s Bazaars and Shopping
Bursa is famous for its historic bazaars. The Covered Bazaar, in particular, has been a hub for traditional shopping for many years. Here, you can find silk fabrics, hand-woven carpets, and other handicrafts. Moreover, there are many restaurants where you can taste the famous Bursa Iskender Kebab.
What to do: Shop in Bursa’s bazaars, discover silk products, and don’t forget to taste the famous Iskender Kebab.
8. Kültürpark
Located very close to the city center, Kültürpark is a green oasis with its park areas and lake. It is a perfect place for a walk, a picnic, or cycling. The park also has play areas for children.
What to do: Take a walk in Kültürpark, stroll around the lake, or have a picnic. It’s an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
9. Koza Han
A historical bazaar from the Ottoman period, Koza Han is an important center for Bursa’s silk production. Here, you can find silk fabrics and handcrafted souvenirs. You can also enjoy a cup of tea and experience the historical atmosphere of the city.
What to do: Shop in Koza Han, drink tea in the historical atmosphere, and admire the beauty of the silk fabrics.
10. Bursa Museums
Bursa, a city that has hosted many civilizations throughout its history, has a rich museum culture. The Bursa Archaeological Museum, Toy Museum, and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art are among the important places for those who want to explore the city’s history.
What to do: Visit the museums of Bursa and witness the rich history of the city.
Conclusion
Bursa offers an unforgettable experience to visitors with its historical and natural beauty. The traces of the Ottoman Empire, the breathtaking natural landscapes, and the delicious food make this city a must-visit destination. If you are planning a trip, make sure to add Bursa to your list!
