Setting out on a day trip from Istanbul to Bursa and Uludağ Mountain promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Travelers can expect a thrilling cable car ride offering panoramic vistas, exploration of the iconic Ulu Cami mosque, and immersion in the vibrant Covered Bazaar. Capping off the experience is a delectable local lunch showcasing Bursa’s culinary delights. With convenient hotel pickup and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the region’s highlights. What awaits beyond the cable car ride, however, is an opportunity to uncover Bursa’s enduring legacy.
Key Points
- Day trip from Istanbul to Bursa and Uludağ Mountain, featuring a cable car ride with panoramic views.
- Visit to Bursa’s landmarks, including the Green Mosque and Covered Bazaar, with a local lunch provided.
- Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide.
- Tour not recommended for individuals with back problems, serious medical conditions, or limited physical fitness.
- Highlights include the impressive Ulu Cami mosque, colorful Covered Bazaar, and outdoor activities at the top of Uludağ.
Tour Overview
This tour takes travelers on a day trip from Istanbul to explore the historic city of Bursa and the nearby Uludağ Mountain.
Guests can enjoy a cable car ride up Uludağ’s slopes, taking in panoramic views. The tour also includes a visit to Bursa’s landmarks, such as the Green Mosque and Covered Bazaar, along with a local lunch.
Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, and a knowledgeable guide accompanies the group throughout the day.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs should consult the tour details before booking.
Looking for more options in Bursa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a cable car ride (if selected), a local guide, lunch, and a ferry ride.
The tour excludes personal expenses.
Personal expenses are not included in the tour package.
-
No wheelchair accessibility
-
Stroller accessible
-
Infants must sit on laps
-
Not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions
Pickup Information
Where’s the pickup location for this tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests will be picked up from their hotel’s security gate.
However, there may be delays of up to 15 minutes due to traffic. The tour starts at 8:00 am, so guests should be ready at their pickup location.
This allows the tour to depart on time and ensure a smooth start to the day’s activities.
Prompt arrival at the pickup point is important, as the tour won’t wait for latecomers.
Health and Accessibility
Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the excursion.
The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The key considerations for health and accessibility on this tour include:
-
Not wheelchair accessible
-
Stroller accessible
-
Infants must sit on laps
-
Moderate physical fitness level required
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Confirmation is received at booking unless the tour is booked within 8 hours of the experience’s start time.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Guests can reserve the tour now and pay later.
Guests can reserve the tour now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
This flexible policy allows travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can make changes if needed. The reasonable cancellation window and payment option make this tour accessible and accommodating for various travel plans and schedules.
Guests can plan their Istanbul trip with ease, secure in the knowledge that their Bursa and Uludağ tour is booked and easily adjustable.
Exploring Bursa
Bursa is an enchanting city nestled at the base of the majestic Uludağ mountain, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Guests on the Bursa and Uludağ tour will have the chance to:
-
Explore the impressive Ulu Cami, a grand 14th-century mosque with 20 domes and beautifully carved marble columns.
-
Wander through the colorful Covered Bazaar, a labyrinth of shops selling traditional textiles, leatherwork, and more.
-
Ride the cable car up to the top of Uludağ, where they can enjoy panoramic views and outdoor activities.
-
Savor a delicious local lunch, seeing Bursa’s vibrant culinary scene.
Riding the Cable Car to Uludağ
One of the highlights of the Bursa and Uludağ tour is the chance to ride the cable car up to the top of Uludağ, the majestic mountain that looms over the city.
The cable car journey takes about 30 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. At the top, visitors can explore the ski resort area, go hiking, or simply take in the panoramic vistas.
The cable car is an efficient and enjoyable way to reach the summit, eliminating the need for strenuous hiking. It’s a must-do activity for anyone visiting Bursa and Uludağ.
Enjoying Lunch in Bursa
After taking the cable car up to Uludağ, the tour then descends back down to the city of Bursa, where participants enjoy a delicious local lunch.
The tour descends back down to Bursa, where participants enjoy a delicious local lunch after taking the cable car up to Uludağ.
The lunch typically includes:
-
Traditional Turkish meze dishes like dolma, cacık, and humus
-
Hearty main courses featuring Bursa’s famous köfte (meatballs) or yeşil köfte (green meatballs)
-
Fresh seasonal produce, such as crisp salads and roasted vegetables
-
Refreshing ayran, a savory yogurt drink, to accompany the meal
The lunch provides a chance to sample the flavors of Bursa’s renowned cuisine in a casual, authentic setting before continuing the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not mention any restrictions on bringing your own food and drinks. However, a provided lunch is included in the tour, so visitors may choose to enjoy the included meal instead of bringing their own.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration cannot be extended. The tour package has a fixed itinerary and schedule. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, customized tour option, which may incur additional costs.
Do We Get Any Free Time for Independent Exploration?
The tour includes free time for independent exploration, allowing travelers to wander and discover the destinations at their own pace. The duration of this free time may vary, so travelers should check with the tour operator for specifics.
What Is the Dress Code for the Cable Car Ride?
There’s no specific dress code for the cable car ride. Visitors should dress comfortably and wear non-slip shoes, as the cable car experience may involve some walking. Casual, weather-appropriate attire is recommended.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal for Lunch?
Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal meal for lunch. The tour provider accommodates dietary restrictions when notified in advance. Simply let them know your preference when booking the tour.