Bursa Uludag Tour from Istanbul – with Lunch & Cable Car

Planning a day trip from Istanbul to see Turkey’s scenic and historic side? The Bursa Uludag tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending natural landscapes, cultural highlights, and a thrilling cable car ride. This 12-hour excursion is perfect for those wanting to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy Turkey’s diverse charms, from ancient trees to snowy peaks.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of cultural sightseeing, delicious local cuisine, and the chance to enjoy Uludag’s mountain scenery — all in one day. Plus, the inclusion of a cable car ride provides an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Bursa and its surroundings.

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite packed, with lots of stops and activities, so travelers should be prepared for a full day. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, outdoor fun, and cultural exposure — especially if you love a good mountain adventure or want a taste of Turkish hospitality away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines cultural sights, nature, and adventure in one day.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, lunch, cable car, and guided commentary.
• Authentic Local Touches: Visits to Turkish delight and jam shops add a delicious and cultural flavor.
• Stunning Views: The cable car ride offers panoramic vistas of Bursa and Uludag.
• Active Options: Opportunities for winter sports or snow activities depending on the season.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Professional guides enhance the experience with local insights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

Starting early, the tour kicks off with hotel pickups in Istanbul’s Fatih or Beyolu districts. From there, you’re whisked away across the Dardanelles via ferry or bridge (Osmangazi Bridge), making the journey itself part of the adventure. The drive from Istanbul to Bursa takes about two hours, giving you time to relax and get excited for what’s ahead.

Traveling in a comfortable coach, you’ll appreciate the smooth ride and the chance to soak in the scenic views along the way. Plus, many travelers mention the professionalism of guides — with some reviewers noting that guides like Tamer and Mehmet are especially knowledgeable and friendly.

First Stops: Sweet and Savory Delights

Once in Bursa, your first taste of local culture is at a Turkish delight shop, where you can sample an array of these sweet treats for free. Many visitors find themselves stocking up on these delights — the reviews confirm that the variety and quality are top-notch.

Next, a jam shop offers organic preserves, olives, and spreads, adding a savory note to your morning. Reviewers describe this stop as more than just jams, highlighting the quality of the products and the chance to purchase authentic, locally-made goods.

Lunch: Hearty and Authentic

After these tasty stops, a hearty local lunch awaits. Expect a traditional spread with options such as chicken, red meat, fresh salads, bread, and wheat rice, along with a soft drink. Reviewers consistently mention that the meal exceeds expectations and offers good value, especially considering the variety and quality of the food.

The Iconic 638-Year-Old Plane Tree

Post-lunch, the tour visits the historic 638-year-old plane tree. This ancient natural monument is a photo-worthy spot where you can marvel at its size and age — a symbol of Bursa’s long history. Travelers often comment on the peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to enjoy a quick break amid history.

Uludag: Mountain of Marvels

The main highlight is the journey to Uludag’s summit. The drive up the mountain provides stunning views that already hint at the awe-inspiring scenery to come. Uludag, famous as a winter sports hub, is equally captivating in summer, with lush greenery and panoramic vistas.

You’ll have about two hours of free time at Uludag, which is enough to soak in the scenery, snap photos, or enjoy optional activities depending on the season. The reviews reveal that some visitors love to try winter sports like skiing or motor skiing, while others just enjoy wandering and taking in the fresh mountain air.

The Cable Car Ride: A Must-Do

The cable car ride from Uludag’s peak back down to Bursa is often described as spectacular. With a total length of nearly 10 kilometers, it’s one of the longest cable car rides in the world, offering sweeping views of forests, peaks, and the city below.

Some reviewers, like Christa, highlight the ride as the “10/10” experience, especially noting that rainy weather limited visibility but didn’t diminish the thrill. The ride is approximately 20-25 minutes, making it a peaceful and scenic descent that you won’t forget easily.

Cultural and Souvenir Stops

Back in Bursa city center, the historical bath turned souvenir shop is a favorite for picking up unique gifts. Visitors mention that the shop is a great spot to find authentic souvenirs at reasonable prices.

The tour also includes visits to Yeil Mosque and Yeil Tomb, important markers of Bursa’s religious and cultural history. These sites are accessible, well-maintained, and enrich your understanding of the city.

Final Moments and Return to Istanbul

After exploring Bursa’s cultural sites, the tour concludes with the return journey to Istanbul. Guests are dropped back at their hotels, often feeling like they’ve experienced a well-balanced mix of nature, history, and culinary delights.

Practical Insights: What to Expect

The entire day is well-organized, with a timeline that balances sightseeing and free time. Many travelers appreciate the professional guides, who provide insightful commentary, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Transportation is comfortable, and the included ferry or bridge crossing adds an extra sense of adventure to the trip. The cost covers entrance fees, cable car rides, and lunch, which many review as excellent value considering the extensive itinerary.

A few reviewers mention optional activities like ATV or ski equipment rental — these are not included but could be worth exploring if available during your travel season.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a full-day escape from Istanbul without sacrificing cultural depth or scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local flavors.

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture lovers will find plenty to enjoy. While the tour is active, with some opportunities for winter sports, it’s also relaxed enough for those who prefer sightseeing and gentle walks.

If you’re after a well-organized, budget-friendly way to discover Bursa’s highlights, this tour checks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from designated areas in Istanbul, specifically Fatih and Beyolu.

How long is the journey from Istanbul to Bursa? It takes about two hours by coach, crossing via ferry or Osmangazi Bridge, depending on the day.

What is included in the price? The tour price covers transportation, ferry or bridge crossing, entrance fees to Uludağ, lunch with a soft drink, a guided tour, and the cable car ride.

Can I do winter sports on this tour? Winter activities like skiing or motor skiing are available in the winter months, but equipment and jackets are not included. For summer visits, outdoor activities might be limited to sightseeing.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing suited for outdoor walking, and layers are recommended depending on the weather. In winter, warm clothes and gloves are advised.

Is there enough free time at Uludag? Yes, roughly two hours are allocated to enjoy the mountain, take photos, or partake in activities.

Are there any optional stops not included? Yes, activities like ATV quad safaris are not part of the standard package but can be booked separately if available.

Final Thoughts

The Bursa Uludag tour from Istanbul offers a fantastic way to see Turkey’s lush landscapes, historic sites, and mountain scenery, all in one day. With its blend of cultural stops, nature adventures, and breathtaking views, it’s a well-rounded experience for anyone eager to discover Bursa beyond its city streets.

You’ll find the trip offers great value for the money and a chance to indulge in local flavors, from Turkish delight to traditional meals. The guided commentary and smooth transportation make it a hassle-free option, especially for those short on time but craving authentic experiences.

While it’s a busy day, the diversity of stops and activities ensures most travelers leave feeling they’ve truly seen a different side of Turkey — with plenty of photos, stories, and memories to take home.

Whether you’re a mountain lover, history buff, or just looking for a scenic escape, this tour is a solid choice. Just pack your camera, some comfy shoes, and an appetite for Turkish delights!