Bursa Full-Day Tour From Istanbul With Cable Car

Travelers often find themselves caught between the pull of Istanbul’s vibrant streets and the allure of nearby cities like Bursa—a place teeming with history, lush scenery, and authentic Turkish culture. This Bursa full-day tour offers a hassle-free way to explore without the fuss of planning, as everything from transportation to meals is included.

What truly stands out is the cable car ride to Uludağ Mountain, which promises stunning panoramas and a fun, authentic experience. Plus, the inclusion of visits to the iconic Green Mosque and a chance to sample Turkish delights makes this a well-rounded day out.

However, some reviews mention the tour feeling a little too commercial or overly focused on shopping stops, so it’s worth considering whether that suits your travel style. This trip is best suited for those looking to see Bursa’s highlights comfortably and efficiently, especially if they enjoy scenic rides and cultural sights.

Key Points

• All transportation and admissions are included, making it easy to enjoy the day without extra planning.
• The cable car ride is a major highlight, offering real experience rather than a quick lift.
• Visit important sites like the Green Mosque and a 600-year-old plane tree, blending culture and nature.
• The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, providing a taste of Turkish cuisine.
• Some reviews highlight long travel times and stops at tourist shops, so manage your expectations accordingly.
• The tour is ideal for those with moderate physical fitness who want a comprehensive day trip.

A Deep Dive into the Bursa Full-Day Experience

Starting the Day: From Istanbul to Bursa

The adventure kicks off early, with a hotel pickup in Istanbul around 8:30 AM. The comfort of an air-conditioned bus makes the roughly 2-hour journey pleasant, especially if you’re not a fan of long drives. A guide accompanies the group, and from reviews, it’s evident that having a knowledgeable guide like Jamal or Mohammed can really enhance the experience. They share snippets of information about Bursa’s rich past and point out interesting sights along the route, which helps pass the time during the drive.

Crossing the Marmara Sea: Ferry Ride

One of the most memorable parts of the journey is the ferry crossing over the Marmara Sea. This isn’t just a quick transit; it’s an opportunity to soak in views of the Bosporus and the bridges connecting Asia and Europe. The ferry ride lasts about 2 hours, and while some reviews note that it’s not always a traditional ferry (sometimes described as a “quick” or “short” ride), the perspective of passing the water gives a special feel to the trip.

Several travelers mention how this part of the tour offers excellent photo opportunities, especially if you’re into capturing Istanbul’s skyline or bridges. It’s a relaxing break before heading into Bursa’s bustling streets.

First Stop: Turkish Delight Shop

Soon after arriving in Bursa, the tour makes a quick stop at a Turkish delight shop. This is a typical inclusion, aiming to introduce visitors to the sweet flavors Turkey is famous for. Most reviewers agree that you should take the chance to buy your favorites—whether it’s the pistachio-filled, rose-flavored, or classic varieties. It’s a chance to taste authentic Turkish treats and pick up souvenirs.

However, some reviewers have voiced concern over the stop feeling overly commercial, with aggressive sales tactics. If you’re not interested in shopping, it’s worth noting that this is a relatively quick stop, and you can choose to browse or just sample the delights.

The Cable Car Ride: Up to Uludağ Mountain

Arguably the highlight of this tour is the cable car ride to Uludağ Mountain. Unlike many other tours that might offer a brief lift, this experience includes a full 30-minute cable car journey inside a proper cabin, providing panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding forest.

Travelers like IlonaHelen described it as “lots of fun,” and others appreciated that this was a “real cable car” rather than a short chairlift. The cable car ride not only offers beautiful scenery but also a sense of adventure, especially if you’re someone who enjoys mountain vistas.

Once at the top, you get some free time to explore the mountain area, breathe in the fresh air, and perhaps snap some photos of the snow-capped peaks—especially if you visit during winter. Reviewers noted that the scenery, particularly the foliage and mountain views, is a definite highlight.

Visiting the 600-Year-Old Plane Tree and Uludağ Mountain

Back in Bursa city, there’s a quick visit to see a 600-year-old plane tree—a favorite for photo enthusiasts and nature lovers. It’s impressive how this natural marvel has survived for centuries, and it’s a peaceful spot amidst the city’s hustle.

Next, the group visits a local restaurant nestled in the mountain area for a delicious lunch. Reviews highlight the meal as generally tasty, with some mentioning a barbecue-style menu. The setting is quiet and pleasant, a nice break before more sightseeing. After lunch, you’re free to wander around or relax, enjoying the mountain air.

Exploring Bursa’s Historic Sites: Green Mosque

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to the Green Mosque—an architectural and spiritual highlight. With its signature green tiles and intricate interior decoration, it’s a sight that leaves many visitors impressed. The mosque also houses a library and tombs, adding to its cultural importance.

Reviewers who visited the Green Mosque praised its beauty, noting that the interior decoration is particularly striking. It’s a good place to absorb some of Bursa’s spiritual history and admire Ottoman architecture.

Returning to Istanbul

The day winds down with the bus heading back towards Istanbul, retracing the ferry route and arriving in the city around late evening. Some reviews mention that the return journey can feel long and that the group stops at a few shopping malls, which might be less appealing for some travelers. However, the overall experience of the day tends to outweigh these minor inconveniences.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major plus—Jamal, Mohammed, and others are praised for their friendliness and storytelling. The scenic cable car ride consistently earns high marks, with travelers describing it as the “trophy” of the trip.

Food also receives positive comments, with several mentioning the delicious lunch and tasty Turkish delights. The value for money is generally considered good, given that all transportation, admissions, and meals are included in the $60 price point.

There are some critiques, primarily about the long hours (up to 14 hours total), and stops at tourist shops that can feel hurried or overly commercial. A few reviews express disappointment over minimal historical explanation or feeling rushed at some sites.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour departs early from Taksim Square at 8:30 AM, so plan to arrive on time.
• All transportation and ferry rides are included, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs for transfers.
• The lunch is included, typically at a local restaurant—be prepared for a hearty Turkish meal.
• The cable car ride is part of the package if you select that option, offering an experience that stands out from simpler lifts.
• The tour caters to travelers with moderate physical fitness; some walking and standing are involved, especially around sites and on the mountain.
• Expect visits to shopping stops, which are brief, but be aware they’re part of the itinerary and may feel commercialized.
• You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

The Sum Up

This Bursa full-day tour from Istanbul offers a well-organized, value-packed way to see a city that many travelers miss. The cable car ride is a definite standout, providing breathtaking views you won’t forget. The blend of historic sites, natural scenery, and local culinary experiences makes it an all-around rewarding day trip.

While some travelers might find the long hours and shopping stops a bit of a stretch, those who enjoy a mix of scenery, culture, and convenient logistics will find this tour very satisfying. It’s especially suitable for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the headache of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re after a balanced day of natural beauty, history, and good food, this trip hits most marks. Just be prepared for a full day, and perhaps bring some snacks if you’re prone to hunger during long travel stretches.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry crossing lasts about 2 hours, offering scenic views of the Bosporus and the bridges connecting Istanbul to Bursa.

What’s the cable car ride like?
The cable car takes approximately 30 minutes in a proper cabin, providing stunning panoramic views—much longer and more authentic than a short chairlift.

Are meals included?
Yes, a barbecue lunch at a mountain restaurant is part of the package, giving you a taste of local cuisine.

Can I skip the shopping stops?
Stops at Turkish delight shops and other stores are brief, but they are part of the itinerary. You can choose not to buy anything if you prefer.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, visiting in winter offers snowy mountain views, but check the weather forecast as some sites might be inaccessible in severe conditions.

In summary, this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a full, hassle-free day exploring Bursa’s natural and cultural gems. With comfortable transport, expert guides, and memorable experiences like the cable car ride, it’s a trip that blends fun with authentic sights. Perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded day outside Istanbul’s busy streets.